By Blake Jackson
Plant sciences graduate Charles Colvin has been honored with the Outstanding Senior Award for the 2025-26 academic year by Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences.
The award, presented by the college’s Alumni Society and the Coaly Society, recognizes a graduating senior who demonstrates excellence across academics, leadership, extracurricular involvement, work experience, and communication. Selection is based on academic record, interviews, essays, and overall achievement.
Colvin, a native of Malvern, completed his undergraduate degree earlier this month and also served as student marshal for the Department of Plant Science at commencement.
Colvin will continue his academic journey at Duke University as a Ph.D. student. Recently, he was also named a Hertz Foundation Fellow, becoming the first Penn State agricultural sciences student in over 30 years to earn the prestigious fellowship.
Reflecting on his experience, Colvin emphasized the value of research and interdisciplinary learning. “Agricultural sciences are where biology, genetics and data science converge to address humanity's most urgent challenge: feeding billions sustainably,” Colvin said.
“The science here is world-class. Research opportunities existed for me from day one.”
Colvin credited mentorship, access to research tools, and a collaborative academic environment for shaping his development. “I received mentorship that fostered genuine independence from day one,” Colvin said.
“I was offered resources that enabled ambitious exploration, and in the College of Agricultural Sciences, I was part of a community that connected fundamental science to real-world agricultural challenges.”
Colvin conducted four years of research in the Maize Genetics Lab under professor Surinder Chopra, studying plant defense mechanisms and microbial interactions affecting pest survival in corn. His work explores how flavonoids influence insect pests indirectly by altering gut microbiomes, with the goal of reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides.
“Duke University, where I'll begin my Ph.D. this fall, will provide exceptional molecular biology training but Penn State Ag Sciences taught me why that training matters and who it should serve,” Colvin said.
“Penn State prepared me not just to conduct rigorous research, but to pursue research that addresses urgent challenges in food security and agricultural sustainability. That's a foundation I'll build on throughout my career.”
Chopra praised Colvin’s research abilities, noting, “Charles Colvin’s creativity, independence and leadership in the laboratory rival those of advanced researchers,” and highlighted his published work and scientific impact.
Colvin also benefited from grants and training opportunities across multiple institutions.
Photo Credit: michael-houtz
Categories: Pennsylvania, Education