Man-Yeon (Manny) Choi is a Research Entomologist at USDA – ARS, and an expert in insect molecular biology and physiology, specializing in biologically-based pest management for small fruits and nursery crops. His research uses advanced tools like receptor interference (Receptor-i) with neuropeptides and G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), RNA interference (RNAi), and semiochemicals such as pheromones to discover novel insecticides. Manny’s work aims to develop innovative, sustainable strategies for controlling arthropod pests in agriculture.

Ryan Nelson Contreras is a Professor and Associate Head in the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University. With over 20 years of experience in landscape plant breeding, his research focuses on developing sterile forms of nonnative species to prevent their escape into the wild, using techniques such as ploidy manipulation, mutagenesis, and wide hybridization. Ryan’s work spans traditional genetics, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics, aiming to create plants that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also resilient and resistant to pests and diseases. In addition to his research, Ryan teaches courses in plant propagation and the growth and development of horticultural crops.

Marcelo Moretti is an Associate Professor and weed control expert at Oregon State University, specializing in chemical herbicide resistance and exploring alternative, non-chemical control methods. With experience across diverse perennial cropping systems—including berries, table grapes, kiwifruit, and nut crops—he also works in nursery, greenhouse, and organic agriculture. Marcelo’s research spans integrated pest management and weed control, contributing to more sustainable practices in a variety of agricultural sectors.

Lloyd Nackley is an Associate Professor and leader in nursery science and plant-environment interactions at Oregon State University. His team is known for impactful work in nutrient and irrigation management, including innovations for mitigating heat stress in shade trees and advancing sensor-controlled irrigation systems. Lloyd’s research also explores the breakdown of controlled-release fertilizers in heatwaves. At the Nackley Lab, he integrates technology in horticulture with projects like plant health scouting via drones and remote sensing. Lloyd is committed to fostering diversity in horticulture, mentoring non-traditional agriculturalists to shape the next generation of agricultural scientists.

Luisa Santamaria is a Professor and Nursery Pathology Specialist at Oregon State University with a focus on soil-borne pathogens affecting ornamental nursery crops. Luisa’s diverse research includes studies on nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, plant disease epidemiology, and resistance screening in crops. She leads a bilingual plant health program, developing educational materials and offering research opportunities for high school and community college students. Luisa’s recent work explores cyanobacteria in agricultural waters and soils.

Joleen Schilling is the Program Chair and a Professor of Horticulture at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Oregon. She has since managed nurseries in both Oregon and Colorado. Joleen has a deep passion for teaching horticulture. Her graduate research focused on free-choice learning in public gardens, and she collaborated with the Hoyt Arboretum in Portland to develop educational programs. Joleen’s commitment to horticultural education includes developing new courses, forging partnerships with Oregon’s nursery industry, and organizing events like the Women in Horticulture event and the Ag Summit. She was nominated for the Outstanding Teaching Award in Science, Engineering, and Technology and was also honored as a Longwood Gardens Fellow.

Gerald (Jerry) Weiland is a Research Pathologist at the USDA – ARS, who is focused on developing effective strategies for controlling nursery plant diseases. His work aims to identify the pathogens responsible for plant diseases and evaluate the effectiveness of current control measures. Jerry’s research explores how environmental factors and plant production practices impact disease management, with the goal of developing improved methods for protecting nursery crops. His applied and basic research helps growers implement more effective disease control in their operations.