Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., has been named 2006 National Epsilon Sigma Phi “Friend of Extension.” Epsilon Sigma Phi, the national organization of Cooperative Extension professionals, presented the award to Pioneer today during its national conference in Annapolis, Maryland.

Iowa State University (ISU) Extension members of the Alpha Mu chapter of Epsilon Sigma Phi nominated Pioneer for the award. The Johnston, Iowa-based company was recognized for its generosity of time and resources to local 4-H clubs and their communities. The award reflects the history between Pioneer and 4-H, which dates back to the early 1900s when company founder Henry A. Wallace learned about plant breeding from 4-H projects in Keokuk County.

Additionally, in 2004, Pioneer matched a gift of $150,000 for Iowa 4-H Foundation’s President’s Campaign and contributed $100,000 to the construction of ISU Extension’s 4-H Youth Building.

“Pioneer is proud of its relationship with 4-H and the work we do with ISU Extension and beyond,” says Dean Oestreich, President. “Many Pioneer employees serve on various 4-H boards and committees, and we’re honored to have been named this year’s ‘Friend of Extension.’ We look forward to continuing to assist Extension in making a positive impact on communities through programming that supports agriculture, youth and education.”

Epsilon Sigma Phi is the national organization of Cooperative Extension professionals. The organization promotes and supports professionalism in extension work.

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., a subsidiary of DuPont, is the world’s leading source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers and grain and oilseed processors. DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to better, safer, healthier lives for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation