On Thursday 14 July 2010, staff at the Mexican experimental station in Agua Fría held a ceremony to honor the late Hugo Córdova, one of CIMMYT’s distinguished scientists and a remarkable maize breeder, who died in late 2009. All station personnel joined with Córdova’s widow América, his daughter Lucy, and his grandchildren to plant an Araucaria evergreen tree and to place a plaque in his honor, enscribed with the text: “Maize breeder; distinguished scientist; colleague/ His germplams—a legacy to millions of farmers/ His mentorship—a legacy to many breeders.”
Several former colleagues shared memories and spoke in honor of Hugo, including Raymundo Lopez, Félix San Vicente, Manuel López, Mayolo Leyva, Jesus González, and Pedro López Conde. The musical group Khalpaka provided Andean music, and America Córdova thanked everyone for their kind words.
Following the dedication, everyone reloacted to the autotorium where Córdova’s family presented some highlights of Hugo’s career, including his work to improve maize and develope quality protein maize (QPM) varieties— which are now planted in many tropical and subtropical areas—and showed photos from his retirement party.
In late January 2010, El Batán held a similar ceremony. For more information about Córdova’s career visit here.
