Sisson Receives Creative Impact Award

Adam Sisson, industry extension specialist with plant pathology, entomology and microbiology, is the recipient of the staff 2024 Creative Impact Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. Adam Sisson, industry extension specialist with plant pathology, entomology and microbiology, is the recipient of the staff 2024 Creative Impact Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. He leads the Integrated Pest Management communications team and develops multi-platform educational resources for farmers, agribusiness, educators and students.

One of Sisson’s pioneering initiatives is the PhytoPoetry Project. Under the persona of Sebastian Eugene Bartholomew, he has seamlessly merged the worlds of science and art, demonstrating the incredible potential of creative communication in agricultural education. By using poetry and storytelling, he has transformed IPM from a subject of academic interest into a captivating narrative, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the field. He also collaborated with Ed Sikora, extension professor at Auburn University, to create A Field’s End. The publication combines Sikora’s photography with Sisson’s poetry. This unique blend of visual and literary arts showcases Sisson’s talent for storytelling and adds a creative dimension to the field of plant disease management.

Sisson’s latest initiative, "The Undergrowth,” is a video series that continues the legacy of the PhytoPoetry Project by featuring Sebastian Eugene Bartholomew delving deeper into the world of plant diseases and agricultural sciences. “Through a combination of engaging visuals and insightful commentary, Adam simplifies complex agricultural concepts, making them not only accessible, but also enjoyable to a broad audience,” states a colleague.

Sisson’s skill set is diverse, and his projects range from the creative examples above to technical scientific writing and editing. He has authored award-winning publications, articles, books and webbooks, writes successful grants and manages popular social media accounts for multiple organizations. “He has a consistent record of successful scientific communication throughout his career and is constantly thinking of new ways to engage audiences,” states a colleague.