The Robert T. Gast Award (Ph.D.) and the Southeastern Branch Student Award (M.S.) are awarded to students who present the best research papers at the ESA-SEB annual meeting. The awards are based on the performance of the student’s oral presentation. Each of the first place recipients of both Robert T. Gast and The Southeastern Branch Student Awards receives a check of $200 and a plaque. The second place awardees each receive a check of $100 and a certificate.

The Kirby L. Hays Memorial Award is sponsored by ESA-SEB. One award is given each year to an outstanding M.S. student. The recipient is recognized with a $200 cash award and a plaque at the annual Branch meeting. 

This award recognizes and encourages outstanding contributions to American horticulture. The award will be presented at the ESA-SEB Annual Meeting. The recipient is expected to be present at this meeting to receive the award. 

This award recognizes and encourages outstanding contributions to integrated pest management in North America and U.S. possessions. Recipients of this award are nominated for the ESA Award for Excellence in Integrated Pest Management. 

This award recognizes and encourages outstanding contributions to the ESA Certification Program and professionalism of entomology. The award will be presented at the ESA-SEB Annual Meeting. The recipient is expected to be present at this meeting to receive the award.

Congratulations to our 2026 Award Winners!