On October 25, Professor Felipe Pérez Pineda, from INCAE Business School, was distinguished with the "Dr. Enrique Palacios Vélez" National Irrigation and Drainage International Merit Award at the IX National Congress and II International Congress on Irrigation, Drainage and Biosystems, held in Chapingo, Mexico. This recognition, awarded by the Mexican College of Irrigation Engineers (COMEII) and the Autonomous University of Chapingo, highlights Prof. Pérez's contribution to improving the competitiveness of agribusiness and promoting sustainable agriculture in Latin America.
The recognition reads "For his contribution in the application of Natural Resource Economics to improve decision making and evaluation of environmental impact projects in Latin America".
The congress, organized by the Autonomous University of Chapingo, the Department of Irrigation and COMEII, brought together experts, academics and professionals from the agricultural sector to discuss innovations and challenges in the field of irrigation and agricultural sustainability. During the event, Prof. Perez shared his satisfaction for receiving a recognition that bears the name of his mentor, Dr. Enrique Palacios Velez, a leading figure in the area of irrigation and one of the great teachers of the University of Chapingo, who has inspired generations of agronomists.
"Receiving the International Merit Award 'Dr. Enrique Palacios Vélez' has a very special meaning for me, as it bears the name of a teacher who marked my professional and personal life. This recognition is a reminder of the importance of the collective effort to achieve a more competitive and sustainable agricultural model in our region," said Prof. Pérez. He also highlighted the great emotion of having received the award in person from Dr. Palacios Vélez himself, in a ceremony attended by authorities from Chapingo, the Irrigation Department, CONAGUA of Mexico and COMEII.
Dr. Enrique Palacios Vélez, one of the two honorees during the congress, is a living figure of the Autonomous University of Chapingo, while the second award, given at the national level, paid tribute to another emeritus professor who has passed away. The distinction to Prof. Perez is a recognition of his career and commitment to sustainable development, a work that began when he graduated from Chapingo as an agronomist with a specialization in irrigation, standing out as honor roll throughout his career.
This award not only celebrates the work of Prof. Pérez, but also highlights the role of INCAE Business School in training leaders and experts who are transforming key sectors in Latin America. INCAE 's commitment to sustainability and social impact is reflected in achievements such as this, which drive innovation and progress throughout the region.
