The 2022 Joint Meeting of the Entomological Society of America, Southeastern Branch (ESA-SEB), and the American Phytopathological Society, Central Division (APS-CD) convened both in-person and virtually from March 26-30. This hybrid format offered members unprecedented flexibility to engage with the conference’s offerings.

Among the distinguished attendees were two professors from the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Professor Jerome Grant and Assistant Professor Zach Hansen. They participated in the in-person segment of the conference held at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Grant shared insights on “entomophagy using an entomological phenomenon: Brood x periodical cicada,” highlighting innovative approaches to entomophagy and its ecological implications. Additionally, Grant lent his expertise as GamesMaster in the Entomology Games, an engaging and educational component of the conference. Reflecting on his tenure, Grant expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the Games over twelve years, passing the torch to the next steward of this esteemed tradition.

Hansen presented on “meeting the needs of diverse stakeholders across Tennessee and beyond,” emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches in addressing the multifaceted challenges of plant pathology. Amidst the conference sessions, Hansen also captured the vibrant essence of San Juan, showcasing the city’s allure through captivating photography.

Although our students did not travel to Puerto Rico for the meeting, several students participated in the virtual student competition. Those competing were Julian Cosner, Kassie Hollabaugh, Jessica Krob, and Matthew Longmire. Notably, Matthew Longmire received 1st place in the Ph.D. Student Virtual Ten-Minute Paper Competition, while Julian Cosner secured 1st place in the Ph.D. Student Virtual Poster Competition.