Lal to speak at Borlaug Dialogue, receive World Food Prize, and be honored by Ohio State

Rattan Lal

Rattan Lal, one of the most decorated professors to teach and conduct research at The Ohio State University, will receive the 2020 World Food Prize on Thursday, Oct. 15, during the virtual Borlaug Dialogue streaming from Des Moines, Iowa. That same day, he will also be honored by Ohio State in a virtual ceremony to honor his legacy.

The renowned soil scientist and Distinguished University Professor in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) was named recipient of the 50th World Food Prize in June. He will be honored on Thursday, Oct. 15, at the World Food Prize Laureate Award Ceremony, set for 9–10 a.m. CDT and 10–11 a.m. EDT. The prize includes a prestigious $250,000 cash award and a sculpture by noted artist and designer Saul Bass. Join in the special celebration at www.worldfoodprize.org/live.

Later that afternoon, friends and colleagues from Ohio State and around the world are invited to honor the 76-year-old Lal’s legacy by participating in a virtual side event hosted by CFAES.

Registration is required at go.osu.edu/Bxqr to participate in Ohio State’s “The Legacy of Dr. Rattan Lal” on Oct. 15 from 1–1:45 p.m. CDT and 2–2:45 p.m. EDT.

This event will include an overview of Lal’s work, from his humble beginnings as a refugee growing up on a small subsistence farm in India, to becoming a world-renowned scientist and World Food Prize Laureate. A guided discussion and reflection with Lal will be featured, as well as the announcement of upcoming CFAES and Ohio State plans that will contribute even more to his legacy. 

To read more about Rattan Lal, click here