Paul Semtner honored with emeritus status

Paul Semtner, professor of entomology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech and based at the Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center, has been conferred the “professor emeritus” title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who are specially recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1974, Semtner made significant contributions to the understanding of entomology through his research on tobacco integrated pest management. He supported the research enterprise as a conference organizer and frequent reviewer for national and international journals and funding agencies.

Semtner trained state growers by hosting production meetings, field days, farm tours, and farm test demonstrations. He trained extension agents regarding current recommendations and emerging problems in tobacco insect pest management.

Semtner received his bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University.