Dr. Brilman awarded the Spirit Award

On November 11, 2024, the Turfgrass Breeders Association (TBA) presented Dr. Leah Brilman with the Spirit Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership and lifelong dedication to the turfgrass industry. Dr. Eric Watkins presented the award, expressing the TBA’s deep gratitude for Dr. Brilman’s exceptional service to the field.

The award highlights Dr. Brilman’s significant contributions to turfgrass breeding, including her role in organizing the Turfgrass Breeding and Genetics Graduate Student Competition at the ASA-CSSA-SSSA annual meetings. Her dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists and fostering innovation and collaboration within the turfgrass community has left a lasting impact.

Coinciding with the TBA’s recognition, Dr. Brilman also celebrated a significant milestone - 35 years of service at DLF, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth and success of our global turfgrass program. Dr. Brilman’s expertise in turfgrass breeding and product development, along with her dedication to research and education, has been integral to DLF’s continued leadership in the field.

Dr. Brilman’s combined achievements in both industry and academia reflect her deep passion for advancing turfgrass science and her commitment to the development of new technologies and varieties that benefit golf courses, sports fields, home lawns and countless greenspaces around the world. Please join us in thanking Leah for her continued service!

The Turfgrass Breeders Association is an influential organization dedicated to the advancement of turfgrass breeding and genetics. By providing a platform for professionals to collaborate, share knowledge, and foster innovation, the TBA plays a vital role in the continued growth and development of turfgrass science. Through programs like the Graduate Student Competition, the TBA ensures that the field remains dynamic and continues to produce the next generation of experts in turfgrass research and development.