66 / SEEDWORLD.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 Connect with Us! 402.887.4161 sales@blackburnflag.com www.blackburnflag.com administrator for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Plant Protection (APHIS) and Quarantine (PPQ), with its Distinguished Service Award. Since 2013, El-Lissy has been respon- sible for leading and directing a nation- ally dispersed staff that safeguards U.S. animal and plant resources from destruc- tive pests and diseases and facilitates the global trade of U.S. agricultural products. Prior to that he served in a number of positions within PPQ, including as associ- ate deputy administrator during which he was responsible for policy and financial management. “During his tenure as APHIS deputy, Osama has provided significant sup- port to the seed industry, including the development of key initiatives for addressing phytosanitary challenges,” said Tally during the awards presentation. “Under his leadership, APHIS has suc- cessfully implemented the National Seed Accreditation Pilot Program for the exotic cucumber green mottle mosaic virus, and a new Regulatory Framework for Seed Health, known as ReFreSH, which we anticipate will have significant benefits for international seed trade.” During his acceptance remarks, El-Lissy said: “I can tell you I stand here because I have a very committed, very talented work force in Plant Protection and Quarantine — people that know the business. We also have a very strong partnership with you. You are one of those industry organizations that’s innovative, creative and global. It’s our pleasure to work with you and to work for you. I’m uplifted by this recognition, as are my colleagues.” SW On behalf of the American Seed Research Foundation, Jim Tobin presents Nathalie Cruzato with the 2018 Roger Krueger Memorial Scholarship.