Melissa Mitchum, professor of plant sciences, was named a Presidential Engagement Fellow for the UM System. This is the inaugural class of fellows. Fifteen faculty members were chosen among the four campuses in the UM System. The purpose of the program is to share faculty accomplishments with the citizens of Missouri; fellows are chosen based on their demonstrated excellence as well as their ability to communicate their research to the public. The program is administered through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Extension and Engagement.