Donald Cherry, professor of zoology in the College of Science at Virginia Tech, 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 1973, Cherry authored or co-authored 214 peer-reviewed research publications in the field of eco-toxicology. He also presented both invited and contributed papers at multiple national and international scientific conferences. He served as a member of two journal editorial boards and a reviewer for research proposals, journal articles, and book chapters. Cherry was also the principal investigator for grants and contracts exceeding $12 million that were sponsored by the industry, state, and federal fund agencies.

As a professor, Cherry taught a variety of biological sciences courses ranging from undergraduate to graduate level. He served as major professor to 27 master's and 20 doctoral students, as well as 14 postdoctoral associates. He also served on numerous graduate advisory committees.

Cherry received his bachelor's degree from Furman University, and his master's degree and Ph.D. from Clemson.

Written by Krystyne Hayes. Hayes, of Front Royal, Va., holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication from the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences.

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