BLACKSBURG, Va., Nov. 12, 2009 – Ronald E. Pearson, professor of dairy science in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the "professor emeritus" title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.
The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who are specially recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.
A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1979, Pearson was a prolific scientific author and contributor to the success of the world-wide dairy industry as evidence by his receiving the J.L. Lush Award from the American Dairy Science Association for outstanding contribution in the area of dairy genetics. He also received a National Association of Animal Breeders award for outstanding research and the Meritorious Service Award from the American Jersey Cattle Association for his research focused on developing selection tools based on their impact on improving herd profitability.
He also coached multiple national award winning dairy challenge teams.
Pearson received his bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts, and a master's degree and Ph.D. from Iowa State University.