Dr. Harry Collins

Harry Collins’ career began to flourish when he went to work as a Soybean Breeder for Delta and Pine Land Company (D&PL) in Scott, MS in 1974. He participated in the development and release of many southern
soybean varieties, most notably. “Deltapine 105”, which was a widely grown group 5 variety for nearly 10 years. He was responsible for research associated with cotton, soybeans. sorghum and corn, including the then revolutionary development of cotton and soybean varieties with transgenic technology. Dr. Collins never shied away from controversy, and proudly represented the technology that many called “The Terminator.’’ His steadfast allegiance to scientific advancement, devotion to agriculture and good humor held him in good stead even as the nickname was applied directly to him upon occasion. Friends at the company and throughout the industry fondly called him “The Sheriff” for his dedication to intellectual property and active protection of proprietary seed.

He was President of the National Council of Commercial Plant Breeders (NCCPB) from 1986-1987 and served on the Board of Directors from 1981-1983. He also served as Chairman of the Board of the American Seed Trade Associations in 2006-2007.