For his long and productive period working to improve California rice varieties, Rice Experiment Station Director Kent McKenzie has received a major honor. At the 38th Rice Technical Working Group meeting in Alabama, Dr. McKenzie received the distinguished service award today.
Kent started his career in Arkansas, then moved to Louisiana, where he served as an Associate Professor and Plant Breeder for several years. He was hired at a Plant Breeder at the California Rice Experiment Station in 1988. He was promoted to Director in 2000 and has served in that capacity ever since.
In his time as Director, the California Cooperative Rice Research Foundation has released 17 varieties, with several more release proposals expected in the near future.
Congratulations Kent, and thank you for your decades of service to California rice!
