APS has had a remarkable 105 year history due largely to an outstanding legacy of professionals and leaders. But where did they come from? They came from yesterday’s students and young professionals…and tomorrow's leaders are today’s young professionals. And perhaps no one in recent years recognized that more than Steve Nelson, APS’s former executive vice president. Steve retired in 2013 after 40 years of service to APS and in recognition of his outstanding leadership and vision for the society, the APS Foundation renamed the Early Career Professional Fund to the Steven C. Nelson Early Career Professional Development Fund.
This APS Education Initiative research findings identified the need for experiential learning through broader experiences and enhanced opportunities in preparation for careers in plant pathology. In response, the Steven C. Nelson Early Career Professional Development Fund is focused on assisting new plant pathologists in broadening their experiences and skills by providing financial support for short-term visits and work at host institutions or agencies by individuals, or small groups to both enhance experiential learning of the recipient(s), and to provide opportunities to build effective professional networks outside of their home departments. These funds do not support attendance at meetings or conferences.
