Abstract Detail

Donald J. Pinkava's legacy - the ASU Herbarium in the Sonoran Desert

Keil, David [1].

Don Pinkava—Teacher, Mentor, Colleague, and Friend.

Dr. Donald J. Pinkava taught in the Botany and Microbiology (later Botany, and then Plant Biology) Department at Arizona State University from 1964 to 2000), and he continued research as Professor Emeritus until his death in 2017. During his career he introduced thousands of students to the flora of Arizona. He was major professor, guide, and mentor to 33 graduate students, and after retirement his influence extended to many more. As Director of the ASU Herbarium he oversaw and participated in its growth from a small collection to more than 300,000 specimens today. His expertise in Asteraceae and Cactaceae resulted in numerous publications, many coauthored with his students. Don's influence as a mentor and example extends through his many protégés who have increased his legacy in their own careers. He invested himself in his students and humbly but firmly expected excellence in return. I was one of Don's first graduate students; I accompanied him on numerous field trips, experienced his teaching and mentorship, co-authored several papers with him, interacted with him as a colleague, and was honored to have him as my friend for over 50 years.

1 - BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES DEPT, 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93407, United States

Keywords:
Donald J. Pinkava
herbarium
Legacy
Asteraceae
Cactaceae.

Presentation Type: Colloquium Presentations
Session: CO10, Donald J. Pinkava’s legacy - the ASU Herbarium in the Sonoran Desert
Location: San Pedro 2/Starr Pass
Date: Wednesday, July 31st, 2019
Time: 8:00 AM
Number: CO10001
Abstract ID:223
Candidate for Awards:None