Nashville, Tenn. (June 12, 2025) — The American Peanut Council is proud to announce the recipients of its most prestigious honors for 2025. This year’s honorees represent decades of dedication, innovation and leadership in peanut research, advocacy and industry development.
Hall of Fame Award
Anne-Marie DeLorenzo, Mars Wrigley, is honored for her visionary leadership in advancing the cultivation and adoption of high oleic peanuts, a transformation that has significantly enhanced the global competitiveness of U.S. peanuts. A tireless advocate, mentor and strategist, DeLorenzo has served on the APC Board of Director for 15 years, including terms as chairwoman, most recently as APC’s 2025 chair, and has been instrumental in founding APC’s Sustainability Committee and supporting the Peanut Genomics Initiative. Her legacy is one of strategic insight, industry unity and unwavering commitment.
The APC Hall of Fame Award recognizes individual contributions to the peanut industry and, specifically, service to the American Peanut Council, which have been significant, substantial and long-standing.
Lifetime Achievement Award recipients
Dr. Steve Brown is recognized for his lifelong contributions to peanut science and extension. As executive director of The Peanut Research Foundation, Dr. Brown has led groundbreaking initiatives such as the Peanut Genomics Initiative, enabling marker-assisted selection for breeders. With more than 30 years in cooperative extension and leadership roles at Auburn University and the University of Georgia, Brown’s work has significantly advanced pest management, research coordination and education across the peanut sector.
Dr. Timothy Branner Brenneman has been a driving force in peanut pathology for nearly four decades. As a University of Georgia professor, his translational research has revolutionized disease management through innovative fungicide programs, seed treatment development and cultivar resistance strategies. From twin-row planting to Peanut-Rx, Dr. Brenneman’s practical, science-based solutions have enhanced yield, sustainability and profitability for growers. A mentor and prolific researcher, he is celebrated nationally and internationally for his enduring impact.
Dell Cotton is recognized for a career of steadfast service to Virginia’s peanut growers. As executive director of the Virginia Peanut Growers Association, Cotton’s leadership helped sustain the region's peanut farming community after the loss of the federal quota system. Respected for his deep knowledge, humility and tireless advocacy, Cotton has strengthened the state’s peanut industry through decades of dedicated service on countless boards and committees.
APC’s Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who have reached the pinnacle of their careers in the peanut industry. The award recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary and sustained contributions to the peanut industry over a lifetime, including a history of involvement and impact on the industry and their communities.
“These individuals have helped shape the future of peanuts in the United States and beyond,” said APC President and CEO Richard Owen. “Their leadership, science and service are foundational to the continued success of our industry.”
Awards were presented during the 2025 USA Peanut Congress in Nashville, Tenn.
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