Orkin's Commitment to Entomology Education

Orkin is committed to education and supporting science that delivers transformative research to the world. In April 2023, Orkin created a $500,000 endowment to establish the Orkin Professorship in Urban Entomology at the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). Through the endowment, Dr. Daniel Suiter can provide continuing education to the structural pest control industry and serve as a technical resource for Agriculture and Natural Resources agents in Georgia. Specializing in insect problems associated with homes and other structures, Suiter's program generates, assimilates and extends knowledge and training to the industry while providing additional problem-solving services.

Recently, Dr. Suiter – along with fellow Professor of Entomology Ben Forschler – published an academic resource on Identifying and Preventing Arthropod Encounters in the Southeastern Neighborhoods. Arthropods include insects, spiders, centipedes and woodlice. They’ve made their homes on the planet for millions of years, and it’s important we understand our “neighbors” in order to find ways to coexist. Preventing pest infestations requires an understanding of their lifestyles and requirements for food, water, shelter and favorable temperatures. The paper was also featured on SciTube – watch to learn more!

Orkin’s longstanding collaborative relationship with UGA’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has supported important industry research, including training between UGA entomologists and Orkin’s Technical Services team. This professorship will enable CAES to continue producing world-class research efforts in urban entomology and developing solutions for sustainable pest management in the Southeast and around the world.