CropLife America Honors Industry Leaders at Annual Awards Ceremony
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin — CropLife America (CLA) proudly recognized outstanding leaders in the pesticide industry during its 2025 Annual Meeting. The CLA Awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose innovation, advocacy, and commitment strengthen agriculture and support farmers’ vital role in feeding the world.
“This year’s honorees embody the very best of our industry—advancing new policy ideas and scientific approaches, fostering partnerships, and helping to ensure that American farmers have the tools they need to grow an abundant, nutritious, and affordable food supply,” said Paul Rea, CLA Board Chairman. “We proudly recognize their dedication and impact.”
2025 Award Recipients:
Lea S. Hitchner Award, the highest award for sustained career dedication – Caydee Savinelli, Head US CP Stewardship, Syngenta; and Paul Whatling, Associate Director, Global Regulatory/ Biodiversity, FMC Corporation
Pillar Award, for commitment to CLA – Brian Reeve, Senior Regulatory Counsel, Syngenta; and Eileen Hollcraft, Lead Counsel, Crop Protection Regulatory, Corteva Agriscience
Urbanowski Grassroots Award, for advancing pesticide knowledge in the states – John Campbell, State Affairs Director, Southern Crop Production Association
Rising Star Award, for emerging leaders – Elizabeth Kneller, Senior Regulatory Affairs Manager, BASF Corporation; and Jessica Chen, Science Fellow, Crop Protection Safety Assessment, Bayer Crop Science
Jay Vroom Agriculture Ambassador Award, for educating on pesticides – Dr. Stanley Culpepper, Professor, The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia
Chairman’s Award, for outstanding member service – Edward Thomas, CLA Deputy General Counsel
In addition, Duane Simpson was honored with a special Exceptional Service Award for over two decades of leadership and advocacy at CLA. Simpson, who most recently served as Vice Chair of CLA’s Strategic Oversight Council, is now President and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.
“Our awardees remind us why this industry is so special. They bring passion, expertise, and leadership to everything they do, helping agriculture adapt, innovate, and thrive in a complex policy and trade environment,” said Alexandra Dunn, CLA President and CEO. “From seasoned advocates to emerging leaders, this year’s winners represent the bright future of our industry.”
A tradition dating back to the 1960s, the CLA Awards reflect the association’s enduring commitment to honoring excellence and fostering collaboration across the agricultural community.