Last Updated on July 2, 2020 by Caroline Warwick

Brian Pearson, assistant professor of landscape, ornamental and protected crop management in the department of environmental horticulture at the Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC), won the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture’s Teaching Scholar award at their annual conference.

Pearson, who was also recognized as a Roche Scholar by the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences this year, is known for his passion for teaching and working with undergraduate and graduate students.

“I found Dr. Pearson to be the most influential professor I worked with,” said former student Amanda Morgan. “He values his students’ interests, and will emphasize them into his curriculum or even his research program.”

Pearson, who’s research is largely rooted in medicinal and beverage horticultural crops, is a passionate educator who strongly emphasizes the importance of including both undergraduates and graduate students in research and accessibility. Pearson’s portfolio includes web-based laboratories, virtual field trips, interactive web-based lectures and learning opportunities both domestic and abroad.

“I’m proud to represent the University of Florida, IFAS and MREC,” Pearson said. “I have received amazing guidance and encouragement from faculty, administrators, and students, and I could not be more proud to bring home this award in recognition of our group effort.”

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