Edward J. Wickson was dean of the UC College of Agriculture and editor of Pacific Rural Press, whose writings, field-based teaching, and leadership helped establish UC Davis and advance California agriculture.
Adel A. Kader was a global leader in postharvest biology, transforming produce quality and shelf life. His work at UC Davis, including the Postharvest Technology Center, impacted agriculture worldwide.
Professor Emeritus, Department Chair, Director of Agricultural Field Stations
1887-1974
Ben A. Madson advanced agronomy research, led the Division of Agronomy and UC’s Agricultural Field Stations, taught generations of students, and served Davis through civic leadership and agricultural innovation.
Professor Emeritus of Environmental Horticulture, Department Chair
1920-2012
Richard W. Harris transformed arboriculture through research, teaching, and leadership. His textbook 'Arboriculture' and service to UC Davis shaped generations of tree care professionals.
Andrew Leiser was a professor of environmental horticulture whose research advanced revegetation, erosion control, and woody plant horticulture, while mentoring future leaders in the field.
Leonard Morris was a professor of vegetable crops whose research in postharvest physiology shaped produce storage, chilling practices, and international agricultural science.
James A. Beutel was a UC Davis pomologist and Extension specialist who helped introduce kiwifruit and Asian pears to California and advanced peach research and small farm outreach statewide.
Kay Ryugo was a professor of pomology whose research on fruit tree physiology and orchard management transformed walnut production and whose teaching and mentorship shaped generations of horticulturists.
UC Davis plant breeder Jack Hanna co-developed the first machine-harvestable tomato, revolutionizing the industry and enabling large-scale processing with his VF145 “square tomato.”
Ellen Sutter was a UC Davis professor known for her work in plant propagation and dedication to teaching. She advanced instructional technology and mentored students across plant sciences.
