Councilor s Forum appointed a committee to propose the development of an APS identity package to reflect the mission and objective of the society both internally and externally. Industry Advisory Committee Chair will rotate from B. Carroll to C. Becker. The committee is seeking guidance, through an industry survey, the beneficial role members can provide to the Society. Consolidation of IAC, Sustaining Associates and the Industry Committee is also being considered. The following biotechnology position statement, to be issued when needed, was approved by Council, The American Phytopathological Society supports responsible application of biotechnology for the improvement of plant health and productivity.
Council wishes to move from a reactive to proactive strategy in developing position statements.
APS Foundation continues to thrive. Twenty-one named travel funds were established as of July 1. Twenty-three student travel awards were given at the New Orleans meeting. Office of Electronic Communication launched APSnet III, Plant Health Progress and the APSnet Education Center. It has been a very exciting year on council, with leadership passing from Neal Van Alfen to Steve Slack.