Honoring excellence: 2025 ALVSCE Awards Night recognizes outstanding alumni, advocates and partners

Wednesday

ALVSCE Communications

Cactus table decoration at the 2025 ALVSCE Awards Night

On a night dedicated to celebrating vision, service and innovation, the University of Arizona’s Division of Agriculture, Life & Veterinary Sciences & Cooperative Extension (ALVSCE) proudly recognized outstanding alumni, advocates and partners at the 2025 Awards Night. From lifetime achievements in ranching and education to breakthroughs in sustainable agriculture and scientific communication, this year’s honorees represent the heart and future of Arizona’s land-grant mission. The event highlighted not only individual accomplishments but also the powerful legacy of collaboration and community impact that defines our division.

Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award

Basilio Aja

Basilio Aja's heritage is rooted in Arizona's agricultural traditions, particularly in sheepherding and cattle ranching. Starting his career with Arizona's cattle feeders in 1990, he emerged as a pivotal figure in advancing agriculture and safeguarding rural Arizona. As the executive vice president of the Arizona Cattle Feeders Association, Basilio has led efforts to highlight the cattle industry's contributions to meat production, the local economy, environmental stewardship and animal husbandry practices. His involvement in legislative policy in Arizona and Washington, D.C. has addressed complex issues such as air and water quality, trade, animal handling, regulatory frameworks and food safety.

Throughout his career, Basilio has demonstrated his commitment to the land grant mission of the University of Arizona. He has worked closely with the agriculture community to advance Cooperative Extension programs and funding. He also helped secure millions of dollars for the university to support rural Arizona, including the recently established University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine and a state-of-the-art food science lab.

The Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award is a recognition of his support of rural agriculture in Arizona and contributions to our land-grant mission.

Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award

Lee Dueringer

Lee Dueringer, affectionately known as “Mr. Happy,” has dedicated his life to making people smile and fostering positive relationships. Growing up on a farm in Gibson City, Illinois, Lee was active in 4-H at an early age. He graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in agriculture. While in school, he became a member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity and remained actively involved in its national leadership for over 40 years.

Lee's first career was in marketing and sales at Elanco Animal Health. After early retirement, he transitioned to fundraising. In 2005, he joined the University of Arizona, significantly increasing gift endowments and scholarships as executive director of the Arizona 4-H Youth Foundation. He later raised millions for cancer research as associate director of development for major gifts at the U of A Cancer Center.

Lee also served as a Regional Development Officer at the UA Foundation and as director of development for the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences, securing critical funding for the Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture. His final role was as the inaugural director of the CALES Career Center, enhancing student career support and internship opportunities.

We proudly present the Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to making the world a better place.

Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award

Stephen M. Pierce (Class of 1972)

State Senator Stephen Pierce, a third-generation Arizonan with six decades of ranching experience, continues his family's legacy as the owner and operator of Las Vegas Ranch in northern Arizona. Steve earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Arizona in 1972. He was elected to serve Arizona's 1st District in the state Senate in 2008, holding positions such as president pro tempore, majority whip, and ultimately served as Senate president in the 2012 Legislative Session.

Steve has been actively involved in numerous agricultural organizations, including the National Cattlemen's Beef Board, US Meat Export Federation, Arizona Beef Council, Central Arizona Partnership, and CALES Ag100 Council. His contributions have earned him several awards, including the U of A Arizona Alumni Public Service Award, Arizona Farm Bureau President's Award, and Arizona Chambers Senator of the Year. He currently serves as president of the Arizona Farm and Ranch Group, advocating for agriculture in the state. His support for the establishment of the U of A College of Veterinary Medicine demonstrated his commitment to rural Arizona and to the field of veterinary medicine.

With all his accolades and accomplishments, he is first to say that the best of his life has been his marriage to his wife of over 50 years, his children and grandchildren.

We proudly present him with the Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his lifelong dedication to representing rural Arizona and his enduring commitment as an Arizona Wildcat.

Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award

Gowan Company

Gowan Company, a global, family-owned agriculture solutions business headquartered in Yuma, Arizona, specializes in crop protection products, seeds treatment, fertilizers and seeds. Founded by Jon Jessen in 1962 as a local crop consultancy, Gowan has grown to include over 27 entities in 15 countries, with sales in over 70 countries. It focuses on understanding local market needs and providing solutions to critical pest problems through sound science and coordinated regulatory, marketing and sales expertise.

Gowan embodies the spirit of collaboration central to the University of Arizona’s land grant mission. The company has partnered with Cooperative Extension researchers and invested in faculty endowments to ensure ongoing talent for tackling key issues. Jon Jessen, a founding member of the Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture’s advisory board, has guided the Center’s applied research toward impactful issues. Under Jon's leadership, Gowan has become a trusted thought partner for the Division of Agriculture, Life & Veterinary Sciences & Cooperative Extension and a key player in serving Arizona’s agricultural community.

We are honored to present the Gowan Company with the Eugene G. Sander Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of its lifetime service to agriculture and ongoing support of the college.

CALES Alumni Achievement Award

Clint McCall (Class of 1994)

Clint McCall has been an integral part of the University of Arizona community since he arrived in 1992, pursuing a degree in plant sciences from the College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences. While a student, Clint found a home-away-from home in the Aggie House, was a member of the inaugural class of CALES Student Ambassadors, and worked for the Department of Agricultural Education.

Clint's dedication and achievements are deeply rooted in his formative years as a CALES undergraduate. After graduating in 1994, he returned to his hometown of Yuma to help launch the college’s off-campus degree program, which has since grown into UA-Yuma. Over the next 30 years, Clint held various roles at the University of Arizona, progressing from a student worker to senior vice president for development. His efforts were instrumental in recruiting thousands of students, raising over $100 million for faculty, research and scholarships, and leading successful fundraising teams.

In 2024, Clint retired from the university. Given all that he has accomplished in the first 30 years of his career, we eagerly anticipate his future endeavors. Regardless of where his path leads, he will always remain a proud U of A alum.

In recognition of his unwavering dedication to the University of Arizona and his exemplification of a true Wildcat alum, we are proud to present him with the Alumni Achievement Award.

CALES Alumni Achievement Award

Jenn Frymark (Class of 2005)

Jenn Frymark is the chief greenhouse officer at Gotham Greens, a pioneer in sustainable indoor agriculture and a leading fresh food company on a mission to transform the way we approach our food system. The company farms through its national network of climate-controlled, high-tech greenhouses in cities across America. Since joining Gotham Greens in 2009 as a managing partner, Jenn has overseen all greenhouse operations.

Before Gotham Greens, Jenn gained extensive experience working in greenhouses across diverse climates and continents, including the Science Barge in New York City, the CuisinArt Resort greenhouse in Anguilla, and both McMurdo and South Pole Stations in Antarctica.

Jenn holds a bachelor's degree in plant biology from Arizona State University and a master's degree in controlled environment agriculture from the U of A College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences. She has conducted research at the Controlled Environment Agriculture Center (CEAC), serves on the advisory board, and has been a long-term supporter of the program.

In recognition of her innovative leadership in sustainable indoor agriculture and her ongoing commitment to the university and the college, we are proud to present her with the Alumni Achievement Award.

Outstanding Achiever Award

Dr. Martina Cartwright (Class of 1990, 1992)

Dr. Martina Cartwright has made remarkable contributions to the fields of dietetics, nutritional science and biomedical consulting. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Dietetics/Nutritional Sciences from the University of Arizona and obtained a doctorate in Nutritional Science and Biomolecular Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Notably, Dr. Cartwright was the first dietitian hired by the Cirque Du Soleil in Las Vegas. She practiced as a clinical dietitian/researcher until 2001, when she joined Eli Lilly’s critical care medical affairs division. With 26 years of experience, over 50 peer-reviewed publications and significant contributions to FDA drug and device approvals, Dr. Cartwright's expertise is widely recognized. An accomplished public speaker, she frequently presents at scientific-medical conferences and symposia.

As an adjunct faculty member at the U of A School of Nutritional Sciences and Wellness for over two decades, Dr. Cartwright has tirelessly promoted the university and professional dietetic education. In addition, she is president of her own consulting firm, Beacon Science Inc., providing invaluable biomedical consulting services.

For her exceptional career and outstanding accomplishments in medical education, scientific research, and clinical practice, the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences is proud to present Dr. Martina Cartwright with the Outstanding Achiever Award.

Outstanding Achiever Award

Phillippe Lord

Phillippe Lord has been the chief executive officer of Meritage Homes Corporation since January 1, 2021, after serving as the chief operating officer and a member of the executive team since April 2015. He also sits on the Meritage Board of Directors. Since joining the company in 2008, Phillippe has led Meritage Homes to numerous significant achievements, including formulating and executing the company’s business strategy. He is dedicated to fostering a positive, people-centered company culture, exemplified by the development of a new set of Meritage Homes Core Values in 2017.

Phillippe is actively involved in the Phoenix community, serving Phoenix Children’s hospital on the PCH50 Group as well as the Greater Phoenix Leadership organization. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and business from Colorado State University and completed his master's coursework in economics at the University of Arizona.

In recognition of his significant career accomplishments, commitment to his community and his role as a model for other Arizona companies, we are proud to present him with the Outstanding Achiever Award.

Early Achiever Award

Andrew Offerman (Class of 2010)

Andrew Offerman has rapidly risen to prominence in thoroughbred horse racing, becoming a leading American voice in the sport. At 39, he serves as the senior vice president of racing and operations at the New York Racing Association (NYRA), where he manages the stakes program, marquee events and daily live racing at Aqueduct Racetrack and Saratoga Race Course. He is also deeply involved in the $455 million renovation of Belmont Park, home to the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the American Triple Crown.

Before joining NYRA, Andrew was the senior vice president of racing operations at Canterbury Park in Minnesota. He holds a bachelor's degree from Gustavus Adolphus College and a master's degree from the University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program (RTIP). His influence extends to advisory roles with the U of A RTIP and the Thoroughbred Racing Associations of North America, as well as governance roles with the American Quarter Horse Association Racing Committee and the Minnesota Racing Commission.

In recognition of his professional achievements and outstanding representation of the University of Arizona RTIP, we proudly present him with the Early Achiever Award.

ALVSCE Science Communicator of the Year

Charles Collins

Charles Collins is a dedicated astronomer and sustainable gardening expert with a passion for developing and maintaining aquaponic and hydroponic gardening systems. By combining his love for science and nature, he creates innovative and sustainable gardening solutions.

As the owner and operator of Together We Grow AZ, Charles specializes in designing, building, and maintaining sustainable gardens, providing guided gardening tours, running an online store, and creating engaging video content to inspire others. His dedication to sustainable gardening continues through his volunteer work at the Tucson Village Farm, where he helps students learn about sustainable gardening benefits.

Previously, Charles worked as an environmental specialist designing sustainable gardening solutions for housing communities. He also served as the CEO of The Collins Foundation, a nonprofit agency dedicated to inspiring and educating youth in the fields of astronomy, physical sciences, agricultural sciences and conservation. Collins's contributions have been recognized at the annual World Health Organization Conference, where he presented in 2021 and 2022.

For his passion in communicating the science of sustainable gardening and his philanthropic endeavors, we are proud to present him with the ALVSCE Science Communicator of the Year Award.

Heritage Family Award

The Miller Family (Charles, Class of 1978)

The Elkhorn Ranch, a conservation-minded working guest ranch, was established in 1945 by Grace and Ernest Miller and remains under family ownership to this day. In 1961, Bob and Jan Miller took over full ownership, raising their four children – Linda, Don, Charley, and Tom – on the ranch. Today, Charley manages the ranch alongside his wife Mary, brother Tom and his wife Anne, daughters Clara and Alicia, and Clara’s fiancé Alvaro Campos.

The Miller family has successfully integrated ecotourism with modern ranching practices. Clara, Linda, and Charley Miller, as well as Alvaro Campos, are proud alumni of the University of Arizona, and the family’s partnership with the university continues to thrive. Since the 1960s, they have been involved in research and management projects focusing on brush management, cross fencing, water development, watershed management, rangeland ecosystem restoration and grassland enhancement. Their local leadership includes co-founding the Altar Valley Conservation Alliance and developing the flagship Elkhorn / Las Delicias Watershed Demonstration Project with neighbors and partners.

In recognition of their leadership in research and conservation and their dedication to preserving the unique Elkhorn experience for future generations, we are proud to present the Miller Family with the Heritage Family Award.

Extensionist of the Year Award

P. Andrew (Andy) Groseta (Class of 1972)

P. Andrew Groseta is a third-generation Arizona rancher from Cottonwood, hailing from the pioneering Groseta family. His family's deep roots in Arizona agriculture are a testament to enduring traditions that continue to shape our state. Andy began his academic journey at the University of Arizona, earning a B.S. in Animal Science and Agriculture Education.

Andy's advocacy efforts have been crucial in obtaining funding for the university and Cooperative Extension. He has actively engaged with the Arizona state legislature through emails, phone calls and personal visits to the capital. Additionally, he has networked with university leadership, agriculture industry leaders and councils across the state to garner support.

Andy has been a member of numerous national, state and local boards and associations, as well as having represented American cattlemen at the global level. Recognition for his extensive contributions include induction into the Arizona 4-H Hall of Fame, the U of A Cooperative Extension Centennial Award and an honorary doctorate from the University of Arizona.

In recognition of Andy's lifelong dedication, leadership and advocacy for Cooperative Extension, the we are proud to honor him with the Extensionist of the Year Award.

Arizona Professional Achievement Award

Dr. Ronald Paque (Class of 1966)

Dr. Ronald Paque’s distinguished career as a scientist, educator, and philanthropist exemplifies the spirit of this award. His groundbreaking work on RNA transfection of immune cells across species barriers has significantly impacted microbiology and immunology, contributing to Nobel Prize-winning research and the foundation for COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Dr. Paque’s service to academia and the broader scientific community is commendable. From NIH grant reviews, national committee appointments and journal editorial contributions, he has consistently demonstrated leadership and dedication to advancing science.

Dr. Paque’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin (UW), Oshkosh, followed by a master’s degree from UW Madison, and a doctorate from the University of Arizona.

His reputation as a scholar and mentor is complemented by his generosity, demonstrated through the Ronald Paque Endowed Scholarship in Microbiology, which supports undergraduate student scientists. Additionally, he has recently established another scholarship to aid graduate students, ensuring his impact on future generations.

In recognition of his professional achievements and contributions to education, Dr. Ronald Paque is a deserving recipient of the Arizona Professional Achievement Award.

Arizona Alumni Sidney S. Woods Alumni Service Award

Carol Gamble (Class of 1990)

Carol Gamble earned her bachelor's degree from North Dakota State University in 1974 and her master's degree from the University of Arizona in 1990. She had a distinguished career in home economics education, working in various school districts and colleges before retiring as an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona.

Service has always been important to Carol, and she has found time to give back through organizations like the Family and Consumer Sciences Educators, National Education Association, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences and the American and Arizona School Food Service Associations. Her multiple awards include Arizona Governor’s Citation of Merit and the Norton School Professional Achievement Award.

For the past five years, Carol has passionately dedicated herself to serving on the Norton School of Human Ecology’s Council of Alumni and Friends. She has held various roles, including homecoming chair, vice president and president. With her leadership focused on engaging alumni and supporting students, she has been instrumental in securing scholarships for students, renovating the school's advising center, creating a historical display showcasing Norton School's history from the 1900s to the present, and developing recruitment materials for the Alumni Council.

Carol Gamble truly embodies the spirit of "Wildcat for Life” and in recognition of her unwavering dedication to the university and the Norton School of Human Ecology, the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences is delighted to present her with the Arizona Alumni Sidney S. Woods Alumni Service Award.