The Food Distribution Research Society (FDRS) proudly announces Alba J. Collart, a Clemson University associate professor of agricultural economics, as the recipient of the prestigious Frank Panyko Distinguished Service Award, recognizing her decade-long dedication to advancing food distribution research, student engagement and professional service.
Collart received the award during the 2025 FDRS Conference Award Ceremony on Oct. 13 in San Diego, California.
Her journey with FDRS began in 2014 as a reviewer for doctoral dissertation applications for the Richardson-Applebaum Award. Her commitment quickly deepened and by 2015, she was elected vice president for education, where she spearheaded transformative student programming.
Among her notable achievements include the launch of the FDRS Scholarship Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Research on Food Distribution and Marketing, a milestone initiative that encourages undergraduate contributions to applied research.
“I’ve always believed in the power of mentorship and creating opportunities for students to shine,” Collart said. “Launching the undergraduate award was one of the most fulfilling parts of my service in this role.”
During her tenure as vice president for education through 2017, Collart oversaw student award application processes and recruited faculty reviewers. She also organized the award presentations at the Richardson-Applebaum Luncheon at annual conferences. Her efforts to publish student award abstracts in the Journal of Food Distribution Research significantly elevated student visibility in the field. That same year, she was honored with the Patrick J. Byrne Award for Emerging Leadership.
Her influence extends beyond FDRS. Collart received the Emerging Scholar Award from the Southern Agricultural Economics Association in 2019 and delivered the inaugural Rising Star Keynote Address at the 2021 Northeastern Agricultural and Resource Economics Association meeting.
As FDRS president-elect (2022–2023), Collart led revisions to the society’s handbook and coordinated service award applications. Her presidency from 2023–2024 was marked by strategic leadership and close collaboration with fellow board members, culminating in the successful hosting of the 2024 annual conference in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, which welcomed approximately 100 attendees.
In addition, she enhanced the society’s communications and contributed to timely publication of its journal.
“Serving as president during the Fajardo conference in 2024 was a highlight of my career,” Collart reflected. “Seeing our members come together, exchange ideas and celebrate scholarship was incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond FDRS, Collart served on the Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics editorial board from 2022–2024. She continues to contribute as a reviewer for the Journal of Food Distribution Research.
Having recently concluded her term as past-president and chair of the nominating committee, Collart’s commitment to mentorship, scholarship and leadership exemplifies the spirit of the Frank Panyko Distinguished Service Award.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this award and grateful to everyone who made it happen,” Collart said. “It’s a reflection of the incredible people I’ve worked with and the shared mission we’ve pursued together.”
