PCOC Recognizes Vernard Lewis with 2024 Harvey Logan Lifetime Achievement Award

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —  Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC) President Mary Hernandez announced Vernard Lewis, Ph.D., as the 2024 Harvey Logan Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient. Lewis, professor emeritus of cooperative extension, is an individual who has inspired students, colleagues, and pest management professionals for more than 40 years. Lewis graduated from UC Berkeley’s College of Natural Resources in 1975 with a bachelor of science in agricultural sciences, later earning a master of science in 1979, and completed his Ph.D., in entomology in 1989.

Lewis joined UC Berkeley as a professor of cooperative extension in 1991 after completing a postdoctoral fellowship in the department of environmental science, policy and management. As an internationally recognized expert on urban pests, Lewis has published more than 150 papers and delivered more than 700 presentations on termites, bed bugs, and cockroaches.

Lewis is best known for his termite research, which largely occurred in a 400-square-foot structure at UC Berkeley’s Richmond Field Station designed to test alternative pest control methods. Lewis also has been instrumental in supporting PCOC’s Termite Academy that has been hosted at the UC Berkeley’s Richmond Field Station since 2018.

PCOC Past President (2009-2010) Lee Whitmore provided this overview on Dr. Lewis’ selection: “Vernard has been an unparalleled champion for our industry for decades. His research has been instrumental in protecting the consumer public by ensuring industry professionals communicate accurately about pest control technologies and processes. His collaboration and research have enhanced the effectiveness of various treatment technologies through meticulous yet fair evaluation, benefiting both professionals and consumers alike.

However, perhaps his most significant contribution lies in his efforts to encourage diversity and inclusivity within the field of entomology. By serving as a mentor and inspiration to minority individuals and women, Dr. Lewis has helped to address the historical underrepresentation of these groups in the field. In doing so, he has not only opened doors for countless aspiring entomologists and pest control professionals but has also enriched the industry with diverse perspectives and talents.”

PCOC said its members truly appreciate Lewis today for his dedication to research that has provided the industry with invaluable knowledge. PCOC also said it thanks Lewis’ wife, Dr. Lisa Kala, and their daughter, Aikane, for theie constant source of encouragement and inspiration.