The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) instituted a new award at the 133rd annual meeting in Portland, Oregon this year, the Lifetime Industry Achievement Award, and the first honoree is Dr. Owen Newlin, retired from DuPont Pioneer.
Presenting the award, ASTA Chair Risa DeMasi called Newlin a legend in the industry. “When someone spends a lifetime, more than 50 years, tirelessly giving of themselves to contribute to our industry, beyond what most would consider humanly possible, there should be a special award that sets this individual apart,” said DeMasi. “Owen is the longest running ASTA president who remains an active participant on the ASTA board of directors to this day.” Newlin served as president of ASTA in 1985-86, and his career in the industry started in 1955. He was Senior Vice President of Pioneer Hi-Bred International, a company his father helped to create.
As an additional honor, DeMasi says the new award will be known as the Owen J. Newlin Lifetime Achievement Award.
listen to an interview with Dr. Newlin here: Interview with ASTA award winner Dr. Owen Newlin