Outstanding Scholar and Teaching Awards Presented at 2012 PSA Meeting

ST. LOUIS, July 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- During the Poultry Science Association (PSA) annual meeting held this week in Athens, Georgia, Novus International, Inc. presented two prestigious awards – the Outstanding Scholar and Teaching Awards.

Recipients of each award are recognized for their exceptional work both within and outside the classroom, along with their contributions to the Poultry Industry. This year's honorees are two leading professors of poultry science and nutrition; Dr. Craig N. Coon and Dr. Christopher D. McDaniel, respectively.

Outstanding Scholar Award

Novus collaborates with university research scientists to further nutrition research. As a means to formally recognize the value of these collaborative efforts, Novus established the Outstanding Scholar Award.

Dr. Craig N. Coon was recognized as the 2012 Outstanding Scholar for his accomplishments during a remarkable 40-year career serving the Poultry Industry. Dr. Coon is a professor and poultry nutritionist in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Dr. Coon teaches Principles of Nutrition to undergraduates, and teaches graduate-level courses in Biochemical Nutrition and Amino Acid and Protein Nutrition and Metabolism. His published work includes more than 250 refereed papers and nine book chapters. Dr. Coon is often invited to speak at national and international poultry meetings; he's delivered more than 300 presentations in 43 different countries.

"I'm humbled by this recognition," said Dr. Coon. "The University of Arkansas has fully supported my work and allowed me the opportunity to travel throughout the world to work with poultry producers; to help them solve their nutritional needs. I'd also like to thank Novus for sponsoring this award – it's a huge honor."

Teaching Award

The poultry industry is fortunate to have a wealth of talented research scientists and nutritionists who are dedicated to furthering advancements in poultry nutrition and production. The PSA has a peer-review committee established to honor an exceptional academic each year for the totality of their contributions toward research and student instruction.

Dr. Christopher D. McDaniel was presented with the 2012 Novus International Teaching Award during an awards banquet at the PSA Meeting in Athens, Georgia. Dr. McDaniel is a professor and poultry scientist in the Department of Poultry Science at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi.

Dr. McDaniel designs and teaches courses in avian reproduction, management of commercial layers and commercial poultry production. He is extensively involved in both undergraduate and graduate research training, along with direct supervisory instruction of graduate students. His illustrious accomplishments extend far beyond the classroom. Dr. McDaniel's service includes recognition as a Bettersworth Leadership Lecturer for Mississippi State University, Subject Editor for the Journal of Applied Poultry Research,  and presenting research findings at scientific and industry meetings.

"I'm deeply honored to receive this award," said Dr. McDaniel. "To be recognized by my peers for doing the very things that I enjoy and am passionate about means a great deal.  I'm grateful for Mississippi State's support, the wonderful and talented students that I'm fortunate to work with, the support and encouragement of my fellow research poultry scientists, and Novus for sponsoring the award."

"We're delighted to have the opportunity each year to recognize the accomplishments of leading poultry scientists and nutritionists," stated Dr. Scott Carter, Global Market Manager, Poultry, with Novus. "Dr. Coon and Dr. McDaniel are two of the industry's finest. We look forward to continuing to work with them and drawing upon their expertise for many years to come."

For more information visit: www.novusint.com.

About Novus International, Inc.
Novus International, Inc. is a global leader in developing animal health and nutrition solutions based on science. Novus offers a broad range of essential nutrients that enable animals to grow to their genetic potential. For more information about how Novus is sustainably helping to feed the world affordable, wholesome food and achieve a higher quality of life, visit www.novusint.com.

Novus is privately owned by Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A.), Inc. and Nippon Soda Co., Ltd. For more information visit www.novusint.com

Contacts: Tracy Barfield
636.794.2411
[email protected]

Larry Stoller
314.576.8459
[email protected]

SOURCE Novus International, Inc.