Syngenta Crop Protection, along with co-sponsor Delta Farm Press, has recognized Jessica Jarrell, of Mohawk, as an honorary winner in the Future of Delta Cotton student essay contest.

Jarrell was raised on a small beef cattle farm. She is studying agricultural economics at the University of Tennessee. She hopes to attend graduate school and eventually become an advocate for agriculture, working in marketing or advertising.

"Syngenta is committed to the future of the cotton industry and to the success of students, like the Future of Delta Cotton winners, who will shape this future," said Chad Steiner, Syngenta cotton crop manager. "Their understanding of the industry and creative approach to addressing its challenges are proof positive that we are in good hands."

Competing against students from Louisiana State University, the University of Tennessee, Mississippi State University and the University of Arkansas, Jarrell and five other students were awarded $1,000 for their award-winning essays.

The grand prize winners, each awarded $2,500, were Michael Ferro, graduate student at Louisiana State University, and Matthew Turner, undergraduate student at Louisiana State University.

Syngenta is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2007 were approximately $9.2 billion. Syngenta employs over 21,000 people in more than 90 countries.