2024 International Awards: George W. Bird

Special Recognition Award for Promoting International Understanding

Published: Tuesday, 26 Mar 2024   Author: Jonathan Gibson

George W. Bird is the 2024 recipient of the Special Recognition Award for Promoting International Understanding, which recognizes faculty and staff who have made significant contributions to international engagement through internationalizing campus and MSU programs globally.

Bird is professor emeritus of nematology in the Department of Entomology. Since 1973, Bird’s teaching, research and MSU Extension responsibilities have been in the areas of nematology, integrated pest management, sustainable agriculture and soil health biology. During this time, Bird participated in many projects in Africa, Central and South America, and Central Asia.

Among other projects, Bird has collaborated with the Potato Cyst Nematode Management and Wheat Rust Breeding programs in Kyrgyzstan. In 2010, he was recognized by the Minister of Agriculture there for his contributions to agricultural research, education and outreach.

In 2021, he and his wife established the Bird Family Foundation for Environmentally Sound Agriculture to promote international understanding of environmental and sustainability issues.

Bird was nominated by Hannah Burrack, chairperson and professor in the Department of Entomology, and David Mota-Sanchez, chair of the awards committee in the Department of Entomology. “He has been true to the Land-Grant Mission of MSU in meeting the needs of Michigan and getting involved in many international programs. Professor Bird's reflection shines brightly, highlighting MSU's worldwide engagement and global reputation,” said Burrack and Mota-Sanchez.