THE 2007 WORLD FOOD PRIZE was formally awarded to Dr. Philip E. Nelson on October 18 at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines. The ceremony took place during the 2007 Borlaug Dialogue, themed "Biofuels and Biofoods: The Global Implications of Emerging Technologies."
Attended by dignitaries and experts from more than 60 countries, the Laureate Award Ceremony paid tribute to the remarkable accomplishments of Dr. Nelson.
The evening was highlighted by a special performance by the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. Dr. Nelson, who was a member of the Glee Club as a student at Purdue, was kept unaware of the surprise performance.
As the group rushed out to perform "For the Honor of Old Purdue," Dr. Nelson was overcome with emotion. He was later joined by his wife Sue as the Glee Club performed four numbers paying tribute to Dr. Nelson's scientific discoveries and his nearly 50-year career at Purdue University.
The ceremony also featured a repeat performance by Brazilian twin brothers and renowned classical violinists Wagner and Walter Caldas. The Caldas brothers' performance at the 2006 Laureate Award Ceremony led to musical scholarships at the University of Northern Iowa.
The Honorable Chester Culver, Governor of Iowa, presided over the ceremony. (See complete ceremony program)
Read more about Dr. Nelson here.
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2007 World Food Prize Laureate Award Ceremony
Dr. Nelson accepts 2007 World Food Prize