Faculty Mid-Career Award

For commitment to the University’s land-grant mission

This award recognizes faculty systemwide in the early to middle stage of their career who have demonstrated a strong commitment to WSU’s land-grant mission and its scholarship, teaching and engagement elements.

Recipients of this award will have demonstrated outstanding performance and the potential to build on their achievements, thereby enhancing the University’s ability to create positive outcomes for all and meet the future needs of the state of Washington, the Pacific Northwest, our nation, and beyond.

Lisa Wasko DeVetter

Associate Professor, Department of Horticulture

A prolific writer and respected scholar, Lisa Wasko DeVetter has authored approximately 200 scholarly works in ten years, with her and fellow lab members’ work being presented at over 300 conferences worldwide. DeVetter’s work has a measurable impact on the state of Washington, where her focus on small-fruit horticulture has helped boost Washington’s small-fruit industry by improving pollinator practices. She also co-authored a proposal that resulted in a new faculty hire to advance the University’s research on plants of historical indigenous importance. Her horticultural work has been nationally recognized, receiving extensive funding from the USDA.

Passionate about teaching, DeVetter volunteered to teach a 300-level course from 2018-2023 and also offers guest lectures. With her extensive scholarly knowledge and experience, she has also served as the advisor for 20 master’s and PhD students. DeVetter’s teaching contributions to the department have made her pivotal in recruiting and retaining students. Her expertise in her field has made her a recognized leader at WSU and internationally.

Previous recipients