Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award

2026 Winner: Tessa Burch-Smith

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity Award Committee of the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) is honored to present the 2026 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity Award to Dr. Tessa Burch-Smith. Tessa is an Associate Member and Principal Investigator at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, where her research focuses on the role of plasmodesmata in plant communication during development and immunity.

The committee recognized Tessa’s exceptional and sustained commitment to advancing inclusion and accessibility in science. In particular, her work to expand opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing students to fully participate in research was regarded as both transformative and deeply impactful, earning enthusiastic praise from nominators and committee members alike.

Beyond her leadership in inclusivity, Tessa has provided exemplary service to the plant biology community. Her contributions include dedicated mentorship through Research Experiences for Undergraduates at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center and distinguished leadership within ASPB as President-elect. Together, these efforts reflect a career defined not only by scientific excellence, but by a profound commitment to community, mentorship, and access.

On behalf of the committee and the broader ASPB community, we extend our warmest congratulations and deepest appreciation to Tessa. Her leadership has broadened participation, strengthened our community, and set a lasting standard for equity and inclusion in plant science. It is a privilege to recognize her achievements and to celebrate the enduring impact of her work.