MSU Extension’s Nikki Rothwell named 2025 Cherry Industry Person of the Year
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EmailMSU Extension’s Nikki Rothwell was named the 2025 Cherry Industry Person of the Year at the National Cherry Festival for her leadership in research, grower outreach and advocacy, and for her lasting impact on Michigan’s cherry industry.
EAST LANSING, MI --- Michigan State University (MSU) Extension specialist Nikki Rothwell has been named the 2025 Cherry Industry Person of the Year, one of the cherry industries’ highest honors and awarded at the National Cherry Festival.
Rothwell, a longtime leader in Michigan’s cherry industry, serves as the coordinator of the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center (NWMHRC) and Extension specialist in tree fruit integrated pest management. She was recognized for her decades of work in research, grower education and industry leadership.
"I have been tremendously lucky to work with such supportive and collaborative growers at the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center,” Rothwell said. “We have certainly had our challenges, but the cherry industry has always been willing to partner with MSU to help find creative solutions to issues on the farm. I am humbled to be given such an honor from the industry.”
The Cherry Industry Person/Couple of the Year Award honors individuals for outstanding contributions to the cherry industry as growers, processors, educators or advocates. The award was presented at the festival’s Cherry Industry Program and Awards ceremony on July 3.
Rothwell was nominated by her peers and industry leaders who praised her as a trusted researcher, tireless advocate for growers and a vital force in modern cherry production.
“Dr. Rothwell embodies the spirit and purpose of this award,” Patrick Cudney, director of government and stakeholder relations for MSU’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, said. “Her presence is one of generosity, passion for the industry and the growers she serves and deep expertise.”
Over the course of her career, Rothwell has led research on pest and disease management, climate resiliency and orchard systems. She developed an innovative model to help growers manage spotted wing drosophila, a major invasive pest, by using growing degree days and crop ripeness to reduce unnecessary sprays. More than 90% of growers now follow MSU’s spotted wing drosophila recommendations, a direct result of her leadership. Rothwell’s efforts fundamentally changed how the pest is managed.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rothwell spearheaded a virtual Spring Tree Fruit Webinar series to continue critical outreach when in-person meetings were canceled. She also expanded her use of digital platforms to reach growers year-round, including through her weekly integrated pest management newsletter and FruitNet updates, providing important tips to growers relative to the growing season.
“Dr. Rothwell’s Extension and research contributions have made a significant impact on the tree fruit industry,” Ron Bates, director of agriculture and agribusiness programming at MSU Extension, said. “Nikki represents the very best of agricultural Extension with her innovative research, exceptional outreach programming, industry leadership and unwavering commitment to grower success.”
In addition to her research and education efforts, Rothwell has stepped up during times of industry need. When the Cherry Marketing Institute faced leadership transitions in 2024, she held regular meetings with stakeholders to support operations. Her work extends beyond traditional Extension roles, often focusing on economic sustainability, mental health and community wellbeing.
“Nikki’s work exemplifies the mission of MSU Extension,” Quentin Tyler, director of MSU Extension, said. “She is not only a trusted researcher but a tireless advocate for the needs of growers, an effective communicator and a mentor to the next generation of agricultural professionals. Her ability to translate complex research into practical tools and strategies has made her an indispensable resource for the cherry industry.”
Under her leadership, the NWMHRC serves as a vital hub for the region’s fruit growers. Each year, Rothwell and her staff open the research center during the National Cherry Festival, welcoming more than 2,500 visitors to learn about cherry production.
Rothwell’s past honors include the Michigan Cherry Committee Distinguished Service Award in 2022 and the MSU Extension Meritorious Service Award in 2023.
Held annually in Traverse City, the National Cherry Festival celebrates the cherry industry with parades, events and agricultural programming. The Cherry Industry Person of the Year award is among its most prestigious recognitions.
