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Bonnie Johnson
October 30, 2026
Media ArticleThe Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST) has awarded its 2026 President’s Award to Dr. David Baltensperger and Ray Starling for their leadership, service, and contributions to advancing agricultural science and technology. The recognition highlights their efforts in supporting CAST’s mission and promoting science-based solutions for agriculture.
The awards were presented during the 2026 CAST Annual Meeting & Student Innovation Conference in St. Louis. CAST President P.V. Vara Prasad presented the award to Baltensperger in person, while Starling received the honor virtually the following day.
Baltensperger, a professor of soil and crop sciences and interim head of food science and technology at Texas A&M University, has been involved with CAST for many years. A lifetime member and former CAST president, he has contributed to stakeholder engagement initiatives, scientific publications, and partnerships with the crop science community.
Starling serves as General Counsel of the NC Chamber and President of the NC Chamber Legal Institute. As chair of the CAST Strategic Advisory Council, he has led efforts to strengthen CAST’s future direction by fostering collaboration among leaders from academia, government, industry, and nonprofit organizations.
CAST CEO Chris Boomsma praised both recipients for their impact on the organization. He noted that Baltensperger has strengthened CAST through years of leadership and scientific expertise, while Starling is helping guide strategic discussions that will shape the organization’s future role in agriculture.
The President’s Award is presented at the discretion of the CAST President and recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to agriculture, science, education, public policy, and industry. Since its establishment in 2007, the award has honored leaders whose work has advanced agricultural innovation and public understanding.
The 2026 recipients reflect CAST’s continued commitment to recognizing individuals who support the growth of science-based agriculture and help address challenges facing the food and farming sectors.
Photo Credit: Council for Agricultural Science and Technology
