This award recognizes an individual who has contributed two or more years of distinguished service to the American Peanut Research and Education Society, given annually in honor of Dr. Coyt T. Wilson who contributed freely of his time and service to the organization in its formative years. He was a leader and advisor until his retirement in 1976.

The award shall consist of a $1,000 cash award and a bronze and wood plaque both provided by the Society and presented at the annual meeting.

This past year I served as president of APRES, and after 26 years at NC State I was finally able to sign a check that was delivered to Bob at the meeting. Thank you Bob, Ashley and peanut growers in North Carolina for writing so many checks to NC State to support our research and extension programs!