Francis L. Smith

Profile image of Francis L Smith

In Memoriam
Professor Emeritus of Agronomy
1902-1974

FRANCIS LOREN SMITH

Birth: June 18, 1902, Woodruff, Arizona
Death: September 14, 1974, Davis, California

Education

  • B.S., Agronomy, University of Arizona, 1927
  • M.S., Agronomy, Kansas State College, 1929
  • Ph.D., Genetics, University of California, Berkeley, 1938

Employment

  • Technical Assistant to Professor W. W. Mackie, Agricultural Experiment Station, UC Berkeley, 1930–1934
  • Junior Agronomist, UC Berkeley, 1934–1941
  • Assistant Professor and Assistant Agronomist, UC Davis, 1942–1948
  • Professor of Agronomy and Agronomist in the Experiment Station, UC Davis, 1948–1968
  • Professor Emeritus, UC Davis, 1968–1974

Honors, Awards, and Professional Societies

  • Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science
  • Member, American Society of Agronomy (Vice President, Western Section)
  • Member, Sigma Xi, Genetics Society of America, Alpha Zeta, Gamma Sigma Delta, Phi Sigma, Gamma Alpha
  • Special Award for Meritorious Service, National Bean Improvement Cooperative, 1971

Research Contributions and Impact

Professor Smith’s research significantly advanced the genetics and breeding of dry beans and corn. He led UC Davis breeding programs that improved varietal quality, yield, and cultural practices, helping establish production standards for California farmers. His studies deepened the understanding of bean genetics and crop management, and his work was instrumental in developing all the major dry bean varieties grown in California during his career.

Teaching and Mentorship

At UC Davis, Smith taught introductory agronomy and agronomic crops courses for both the degree and two-year programs, earning high regard from students for his clarity, humor, and mentorship. He chaired the Educational Aid Committee, served as Phi Kappa Phi secretary for 13 years, and advised the Theta Xi fraternity. His rapport with students, especially those in need of financial or academic support, was widely recognized.

Collaboration and Community

Smith’s contributions extended beyond the university. In 1964, he taught an intensive course on bean breeding and culture at the Rural University of Minas Gerais, Brazil. He was active in the Davis community, serving as secretary and later president of the Davis Rotary Club, and was a member of local civic and professional organizations, including the Davis Improvement Association and the Democratic Club.

Legacy

Francis Smith’s leadership in bean breeding left a lasting mark on California agriculture. His scientific rigor, mentorship, and community engagement earned him respect as both a pioneering agronomist and a valued colleague. His humor, compassion, and storytelling enriched the lives of those around him and defined his long and dedicated service to UC Davis.

References

For additional tributes, interviews and biographies, see the following resources: