Andrew Clarke, associate professor of food science, has been selected for CAFNR’s 2025 Brady J. Deaton Fellow in International Agriculture Award. He was honored at CAFNR’s annual awards ceremony, Celebration of Excellence, on Thursday, April 17.

Kerry Clark, director of CAFNR International Programs (CIP), said Clarke is one of CIP’s strongest collaborators and is always willing to take on mentorship activities for visiting USDA Foreign Agricultural Service Fellows. This highly competitive program supports mid-career scientists, matching them with a U.S. mentor. As a mentor, Clark said, he works with the Fellows during their three-month research project in the U.S., helping them navigate new procedures and gain new skills.  

“He has always treated his Fellows with great respect and professionalism, recognizing that while they may come from a developing country, all are also exceptional scientists,” said Clark. “Andrew routinely invites visiting Fellows to his home to enjoy Missouri BBQ and to watch the local rodeo. He helps CIP staff provide other cultural events for the Fellows as well, such as museum or football game visits. His willingness to help and volunteer his time is greatly appreciated by both CIP and the Fellows. He takes extra care to make sure his mentees can engage in professional development, such as HACCP [hazard analysis critical control points] training or national or international conferences.” 

In addition to mentoring the fellows while they are in the U.S., Clarke has continued his work with them after they return to their jobs. He makes excellent use of the program’s required reciprocal visits to provide training at the workshops and conferences organized by his Fellows. He has been instrumental in elevating the University of Missouri presence in international food safety circles.