Iowa State University graduate student Mayowa S. Aderoju has been named Chair of the American Phytopathological Society (APS) Graduate Student Committee, a leadership role he describes as both a professional milestone and an opportunity to give back to the community that has shaped him, expressing his gratitude to God Almighty.
Aderoju, a graduate research assistant working with Dr. Gary Munkvold at the Seed Science Center and the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Microbiology (PPEM), previously served as Vice Chair. “Stepping into the role of Chair is both an honor and a continued opportunity to amplify graduate student voices and build bridges with established APS professionals,” he said.
“I see myself as both a connector and a catalyst,” he said. As Chair, he will coordinate the executive team, connect with APS committees, and oversee initiatives such as webinars, networking events, and professional development programs.
Aderoju says his focus is on making graduate students feel supported and prepared for careers in plant pathology. “Leadership is about creating platforms where others can thrive,” he explained. “By strengthening the pipeline between students and plant pathology professionals across industry, academia, NGOs, and government, we can ensure the next generation is ready to meet global food and plant health challenges.” Key initiatives during his term include reviving the Plant Diagnostic Bowl, expanding professional development webinars, and improving communication channels so students feel engaged and valued.
He acknowledges challenges graduate students face, including limited resources, uncertainty about career paths, and pressure to balance academics and professional development. “These issues are often even more pronounced for international students or students at smaller
institutions with limited networking opportunities,” he said, adding that the Graduate Student Committee will work to foster an inclusive, supportive community.
Aderoju credits ISU, SSC, and PPEM for preparing him to take on leadership roles. “The Seed Science Center sharpened my ability to think from seed to field, while PPEM gave me a nurturing community to grow as a scientist and communicator,” he said. Looking ahead, he hopes his leadership inspires others. “In the future, if people can look at my journey and say, ‘Because of the impact of his leadership, I believed I could lead too,’ then I will know I’ve left a meaningful legacy.”
