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A �鶹���� biological sciences professor is a 2026 recipient of the from the Botanical Society of America, one of its highest recognitions in botanical education.

Honoring enthusiasm and innovation in teaching botany, the society highlighted  outstanding contributions over 22 years, noting his teaching “weaves together fieldwork, food, culture, and rigorous science in ways that make botany impossible to ignore.” 

The prestigious national award recognizes individuals whose “work has improved the quality of botanical education at a regional, national, or international level.” 

“Of all the recognitions I have received throughout my career, this one is especially meaningful because it stems from nominations and support from students whom I have had the privilege of teaching and mentoring over the past 22 years,” Rajakaruna said. 

During his career, he taught more than 3,500 students across 19 courses, supervised dozens of undergraduate senior projects and master’s theses, and co-authored over 110 conference presentations where a student was the presenting author, the society noted in his award.

The organization added that about 40% of his 91 peer-reviewed publications list undergraduate co-authors — many as first author, recognizing their lead role in the scientific writing process and meaning that the student’s name will be cited in future publications. 

Through multiple Fulbright awards, Rajakaruna also has served as a botanical teacher and researcher South Africa, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and India. He was appointed as a  for 2024-26, serving as an official representative and recruiter for the Fulbright Program — the U.S. government’s flagship international academic and cultural exchange initiative.