In front of all their peers, the two top industry awards were presented to Dr Michael Potter of the University of Kentucky and Jennifer Leggett, president of Lindsey Pest Services in Florida.
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Pinnacle award |
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Totally unaware he was to receive this award, a somewhat shell-shocked recipient made his way to the stage to receive this honour presented by Ray Johnson, NPMA president. With no time for preparation, Mike said he was humbled to accept this award and thanked the industry – an industry he loved – for this unexpected recognition. Mike Potter is professor of entomology at the University of Kentucky, specialising in pests infesting buildings, people, pets and property. He received his BSc degree in entomology from Cornell University, and his MSc and PhD in entomology with a specialisation in integrated pest management from the University of Arizona. Before joining the University of Kentucky in 1991, he was national technical director for pest control company, Orkin. He began his working career in the labs of Union Carbide as a research entomologist and manager of insecticides. Woman of Excellence award Jennifer began her career as a service technician in 1987, buying her own company in 1992. She has been active in the industry through participation in state, national and international initiatives to advance the industry and its professionals. She is currently chair of the Professional Women in Pest Management (PWIPM) group and has served as president of the Florida Pest Management Association. When the UK launched Professional Women in Pest Management in London in January 2009, Jennifer travelled over and was one of the keynote speakers. See Pest report here. |
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Mike Potter (left) accepts his award from NPMA president Ray Johnson 
Jennifer Leggett (centre) recieves her award from NPMA president-elect Laura Simpson and John Wilson, president of Orkin USA 