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Penn State Hires New Director of Certificate Program in Golf Course Turfgrass Management

John E. Kaminski, Ph.D., has been hired as the newest member of the Pennsylvania State University’s turfgrass faculty. He will assume the role of Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science and Director of the Penn State Certificate Program in Golf Course Turfgrass Management.

Dr. Kaminski received his undergraduate degrees in Turfgrass Science and Landscape Contracting from Penn State in 1998. Following graduation, he attended the University of Maryland and received his MS and PhD under the direction of Dr. Peter H. Dernoeden. While at Maryland, Dr. Kaminski’s USGA-funded graduate research involved an in-depth investigation into bentgrass dead spot, a relatively new disease of golf course putting greens. Following graduation, he was hired as Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Pathology by the University of Connecticut. Dr. Kaminski’s research efforts are focused on various agronomic, disease and weed related issues pertaining to the management of fine turf. He has authored over 180 publications including scientific, trade and extension articles, and has presented numerous talks in the United States and abroad.

Established in 1957, the Certificate Program in Golf Course Turfgrass Management provides education for those interested in the agronomics and business of golf course management. Students enrolled in this two-year program attend classes on the University Park campus for two eight-week terms per year and must complete six months of on-the-job training. According to the program’s Interim Director, Dr. Thomas Watschke, “John brings a strong background in golf course management and applied research and I envision that he will play a large role in the future direction of turfgrass at Penn State”.

John is the recipient of the Musser International Turfgrass Foundation’s 2005 Award of Excellence. The annual award was created in honor of Professor H. B. Musser, whose career in turfgrass at Penn State spanned four decades. The Musser Award of Excellence acknowledges the most outstanding of these scholars seeking a Ph.D. in the turfgrass sciences and encourages their continued pursuit of excellence. “I am excited to have the opportunity to work with and train future golf course superintendents and continue my applied research program at one of the most respected turfgrass programs in the country,” said Kaminski.