National Sorghum Producers (NSP) presented Scott Bean and Brent Bean with the Outstanding Achievement Award in Sorghum Improvement at the Sorghum Improvement Conference of North America, recognizing their research and contributions to the sorghum industry.
Scott Bean has spent three decades advancing research on sorghum proteins and how they change during processing. His work has connected scientific research with practical applications, providing breeders and processors with tools to evaluate sorghum. With more than 14,000 research citations over his 30-year career, his research has expanded sorghum's potential for new product development.
“Much of Scott’s research focused on sorghum proteins and how they change during processing. He helped explain how starch influences food quality, digestibility, and fermentation,” NSP CEO Tim Lust said. “That science supports use in many different areas, especially in the gluten-free foods industry. We all really appreciate Scott’s work on that.”
Brent Bean has spent four decades translating agronomic research into practical solutions for farmers. After earning degrees from Texas Tech University and the University of Nebraska, he conducted research that helped growers address production challenges, including the 2013 sugarcane aphid outbreak.
Throughout his career, Brent Bean has shared his research through hundreds of publications and monthly updates for farmers. His work has focused on sorghum growth and development, including growth stages and heat units, helping producers make informed crop management decisions.
“When I look back at Dr. Bean’s career, he certainly published a number of items talking about growth and development of sorghum. This continues to be a passion of his today: talking about growth stages, heat units and what it really looks like from a crop standpoint,” Lust said. “I appreciate his boldness and willingness to say, ‘This is the right thing to do for farmers, and we are just going to do it.’”
Established in 1961, the Outstanding Achievement Award in Sorghum Improvement recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the sorghum industry. More than 60 individuals, including Scott Bean and Brent Bean, have received the award.
Source: National Sorghum Producers, "National Sorghum Producers Celebrates Scott Bean and Brent Bean With Outstanding Achievement In Sorghum Improvement Awards"