Thank you Dr. Sukhdeo, President LoVerde, Members of the Society, Distinguished Colleagues, and friends for this incredible honor. When I learned that I was to be presented the Henry Baldwin Ward Medal, I found myself speechless. Those of you who know me will realize that this is not an everyday occurrence. It is indeed a tremendous honor, and without doubt the proudest moment of my career to date, in no small part because it comes from my peers. It is especially rewarding because the American Society of Parasitologists is that society I call home. I have been coming here fairly regularly since I began my Ph.D. in 1983.
As is the custom, I shall endeavor to explore my roots that led to a career in the sciences and, in particular, those influences that directed me toward the wonderful discipline of parasitology. In the process, I shall attempt to place in...