Dr. Aaron Shew, assistant professor and R.E.L. Wilson Chair of Agricultural Economics, is lead author of an article published by Nature Food. He and fellow researchers analyzed years of data from more than a hundred locations to compare yield gains of genetically modified (GM) and conventional hybrid maize in South Africa, and found yield gains were larger in GM maize raised for human consumption. The article is online.

Dr. Katerina Hill, assistant professor of marketing and director, R.M. “Bob” Wood Sales Leadership Center, was one of a panel of faculty members who were invited to share opinions on where the job market is heading for new university and college graduates. Hill emphasized a demand for sales professionals, along with the value of strengths in technology, data analytics and social media. Survey results are available online.

Todd Clark is now associate chief communications officer, announced Bill Smith, chief communications officer. The A-State alumnus steps into the new role after 13 years as the director of digital creative media, which includes oversight for the university’s video production unit, photography, website and official social media platforms. Clark, who began his career with the A-State Alumni Association, is chair-elect of the CASE District IV board. Details are online.

Claude Rector, assistant professor of clinical laboratory sciences, made two virtual presentations for the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science’s Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference. In one presentation, he explored various immunology laboratory activities that help students develop the knowledge and skills for practicing in the clinical laboratory. In the other, he discussed making preparations for a NAACLS accreditation site visit, from the team coordinator’s perspective.

Congratulations to Daniel McLain, general manager, and the entire Sodexo team which provides food services at A-State. The online publication Foodservice Director highlighted several campus operations for their perseverance in keeping students fed during the winter storm last month. Chancellor Kelly Damphousse also thanked the Sodexo team. In addition, A-State also ranked in the top 25 among Sodexo university sites with a 91.7% score on its fall 2020 customer satisfaction survey.