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Dr. James McCurdy, known to many as Jay, is the recent recipient of the Musser International Turfgrass Foundation Award of Excellence. He joins a long list of recipients that have become many of the movers and shakers of turfgrass research, teaching and extension throughout the USA.
I took some time to learn more about Jay and his program at Mississippi State and I can see that big things are on the horizon for that program. Jay has been on board since January 1st and has a lofty set of goals for himself and the program. Like many in the turfgrass industry Jay grew up on a farm in Dyer, Texas, and had firsthand experience with row crops, cattle and even sod! Along his career path he worked as a golf course superintendent in Hong Kong where he performed research in the field as well as designing and implementing turfgrass evaluation and development of proper management techniques.
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Mike Phillips, head of the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at Mississippi State University said that “Jay has a broad knowledge of turfgrass from a sod producer’s perspective as well as a researcher’s perspective”. “His expertise will have an immediate impact for sports turf managers, golf course superintendents and homeowners.”
Jay’s bachelor’s degree in plant and soil sciences is from the University of Tennessee at Martin and his Master’s degree in plant sciences is from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. His PhD is from Auburn University where he studied turfgrass weed control, herbicide resistance and the use of low maintenance and biologically diverse turf systems.
McCurdy sent a note of thanks to the Musser International Turfgrass Foundation upon being notified of being the 2014 recipient of the Award of Excellence.
Mr. Dobie and Foundation Board Members:
It is an honor and privilege to receive the 2014 Award of Excellence. The recognition and monetary award are an exceptional testament to Professor H.B. Musser’s legacy within our industry.
It is my goal to continue earning your trust and recognition in my current position as an Assistant Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist at Mississippi State University. Economic and environmental pressures assure that research and education will be fundamental to success in the turfgrass industry. My goal is to leave a lasting legacy that betters students’ lives, enhances the economy of the turfgrass industry, and ensures environmental sustainability for future generations.
The bar has been set high by past recipients of this award, but I believe in my research and ability to inspire greatness in others. Again, thank ever so much for your time and dedication to this worthy cause.
Sincerely,
James D. McCurdy
I can assure you that McCurdy has a passion for what he does. He loves teaching as much as he does research. His passion for the industry will surely rub off on his students and the rest of the Mississippi State Turf Team. Stay tuned to see great things from this program and this well-deserved award winner.