Washington State University Scholar Cornelius Adewale set to be awarded $100,000 Bullitt Environmental Prize

Washington State University Scholar Cornelius Adewale set to be awarded $100,000 Bullitt Environmental Prize

By Susan Johnes 

Cornelius Adewale, a doctoral student in the School of the Environment at Washington State University, and a native of Nigeria has been selected to receive the Bullitt Environmental Prize from the Bullitt Foundation.

The award comes with a $100,000 grant for continued research, and always presented to individuals who have “extraordinary potential to come powerful and effective leaders in the environmental movement.”

Adewale’s research focuses on improving the environmental impact of agriculture. He also hopes to develop methods to reduce chemical fertilizers but produces more food at the same time.

“Without food in their bellies, people have no time for anything else. I am working at the leading edge of research to find ways to produce more food, even as we fight climate change and dramatically reduce the use of pesticides. I am trying to change the way we farm,” said Adewale.

Cornelius Adewale became the winner of the 11th Annual Bullitt Environmental Prize. His research focuses on improving the environmental impact of agriculture.

Additionally, he is developing tools that farmers can use to evaluate farming practice so that they can store more carbon, reduce chemical fertilizers, and produce more food.

“One thing my grandmother taught me was to think big,” Adewale said. “This award offers me the chance to expand my work to a global scale.”

However, one surprising news; about Adewale is that he turned down a safe job with a steady income to pursue his dream.

After building a successful organic farm in his home country in Lagos with just $20, Adewale came to Washington State University and is now trying to change the way people farm.

“Cornelius’ work is the type of forward-thinking research we’ve come to measure our college,” said Ron Mittelhammer, dean of the WSU College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences.

“He is a perfect fit of how to overcome obstacles, think globally, and create positive impact. This recognition is well-deserved.”

Congratulations to Adewale for such an incredible achievement. He is likely to advance his research using the $100,000 prize, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.