In late April, Dr. Adel Kader was the recipient of an honorary doctorate awarded by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena, Spain.  He was honored for his lifelong research efforts to "improve the lives of millions of people" through his work to reduce postharvest losses, thereby increasing food availability.  Dr. Kader is also passionate about growing fruit that tastes and looks good, and also maintaining those qualities for as long as possible after it is harvested.

The academic dress for the Polytecnic University's ceremony was very formal, requiring a special gown, cape, gloves, and hat. Also receiving an honorary doctorate was Gustavo Barbosa, a professor of food engineering from Washington State University in Pullman,...