President's Column.

Thanks to all who made the 64th Annual Meeting of the Academy such a success! First and foremost, the Academy wishes to recognize and thank the Institutions of Higher Learning (LHL) for sponsoring this year's conference. Over seven hundred participants were on hand to enjoy the paper and poster presentations, symposia, and exhibits.

Each conference is unique in its special highlights, and this year's conference in Biloxi was no exception. Two stimulating symposia, one on Remote Sensing, and another on Communicating Science Through the Media, are good examples of the scope of science topics addressed at this meeting. And of course, conferences are always remembered by the Dodgen Lecturer. Those who attended this year's presentation by Dr. David Orr from Oberlin College will not soon forget his insightful, challenging and inspiring lecture. I am sure that many who may not have read his books, Ecological Sustainability and Earth in Mind, which are often compared in impact to Rachel Carson's Silent Spring, have headed to their local bookstores (or more likely Amazon.com). The highlights wouldn't be complete without mentioning the award recipients. Preceding the Dodgen Lecture, the Academy traditionally takes the opportunity to recognize Junior and Senior Academy award winners. It is always with great pride that we speak of the Junior Academ y program and the accomplishments of our young scientists. Dr. Joan Messer, the Youth Activities Chairperson, had the pleasure of awarding plaques to Philip Eichhorn from Jackson Prep (Clyde Sheely Winner) and Alexander Clark from St. Andrew's in Jackson, the first and second place winners respectively from their paper competition held in January. Dr. Richard Sullivan from Jackson State University was recognized with the "Outstanding Contributions to Science" Award. In presenting the award, Dr. Sarah McGuire remarked that Dr. Sullivan was being recognized for a long career in which he consistently "exhibited a commitment to the acquisition, dissemination, and application of scientific knowledge."

As we look to the future, we realize we are facing unparalleled challenges, but also, unparalleled opportunities. David's presentation reminded us of that reality. What part will the Academy play in that future? To continue to be the vital organization we have been in the past, this question should keep calling us home to right and effective service. Knowing Dr. William Lushbaugh, our President-Elect, we will have the leadership to guide us in the right direction. In closing, as my tenure as President winds down, I would like to express my most heartfelt appreciation to all the members of the Academy for giving me the opportunity to serve as your president. I have always felt it to be a great honor. I wish in some measure I could convey to so many of you the depth of gratitude I feel for the generous and unfailing support I received. With all of you, I am eagerly looking forward to working together on the challenges and opportunities in our future.