Rebecca Sideman

Presidential Award of Excellence, 2015

Extension

Extension Professor/Specialist
Sustainable Horticulture Production

Since joining UNH in 2004, Rebecca Sideman has cultivated a lifelong passion for making plants, farms – and even people -- grow in some remarkable ways.

Fresh broccoli raised in unheated shelters over the winter? Check.  Her nationally-published research on high tunnel greenhouses shows it’s not only possible, but sustainable and economically viable.

Research that’s helping winter farmer’s markets sprout up across New Hampshire? Check. Sideman’s work to identify crops that can withstand the harshest cold spells is driving business to some 30 winter’s farmers markets.

A generation of young farmers who are bringing new thinking, and new life, to New England’s agricultural scene? Check.  As an outreach educator, Sideman travels across the region to promote practices that sustain farms and protect natural resources.

As one colleague wrote: “Becky goes about the totality of her work seamlessly, wearing each of her hats individually and concurrently depending on the topic, project or program. Becky is a genuine team player, supporting her colleagues in and out of work. If someone is in need, Becky is there for them. She is friendly, approachable, reliable, funny and open-minded. Becky is quick to smile, eager to please, and a day spent working with her is always a good day.”

As dedicated as she is to outreach and research, Becky is also committed to teaching in the Department of Biological Sciences. Her organic and sustainable food production class attracts up to 90 students each fall. She advises 25 undergraduates and is a major advisor or co-advisor for masters and doctoral candidates.

She is also director of the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems academic program, coordinates its steering committee and program faculty, and serves as the first contact for students interested in the major. Throughout her time at UNH, Becky has contributed to numerous committees, programs and events, and she continues to work closely with colleagues and students across the university community.