ISU Professor Named Top Educator by Meat Processors Association

AMES, Iowa — James Dickson of Iowa State University has received the outstanding educator award from the North American Meat Processors Association at its annual management conference in Chicago. The Harry L. Rudnick Educator of the Year Award is given annually to a leader who has shown a long-standing commitment to, and who has upheld, the highest standards in meat and/or food science education. Dickson was honored by NAMP President Gary Malenke of Sioux-Preme Pork Products at an awards ceremony held March 20. Dickson is a professor of animal science and a faculty member in ISU's interdepartmental microbiology program. He is professor-in-charge of Iowa State's part of the Food Safety Consortium, a three-state research effort that also includes the University of Arkansas and Kansas State University. Dickson's research focuses on the control of bacteria of public health significance in foods of animal origin. He holds a bachelor of science in microbiology from Clemson University, a master of science in dairy science from the University of Georgia and a Ph.D. in food science and technology from the University of Nebraska. NAMP established the award in 1969. Harry Rudnick was the first executive vice president of NAMP, then named the National Association of Hotel and Restaurant Meat Purveyors. Rudnick served as both NAMP's attorney and executive vice president for 20 years until his retirement. The North American Meat Processors Association, founded in 1942, is an international nonprofit trade association representing more than 300 companies dedicated to providing customers with reliable and safe meat, poultry, seafood, game and other products. A member"‘driven organization, NAMP offers both services and educational programs designed to help members achieve business success.