WHEREAS, Jeff Knight has dedicated more than 40 years of exemplary service to the State of Nevada, beginning as an entomology seasonal with the Nevada Department of Agriculture in 1977; and

WHEREAS, Jeff joined Virginia Guazzini in marriage in October of 1976, forming a union that welcomed a son, Brian, in 1980 and a daughter, Angela, in 1982, all of whom have been indispensable champions of Jeff's personal and professional growth; and

WHEREAS, after earning a Bachelor of Science in Pest Management from the University of Nevada, Reno, and a Master of Science in Entomology from Utah State University, thus demonstrating profound expertise in the practice of entomological science and unwavering dedication to the mission of the department, Jeff was promoted to the position of State Entomologist in 1993; and

WHEREAS, Jeff's longtime dream of becoming an entomologist, sparked in childhood and fostered through 4-H programs, spurred his commitment to the responsible pest management strategies he faithfully applies to protect Nevada's natural and agricultural resources; and

WHEREAS, Jeff is regarded as a tireless advocate for environmental stewardship, educating Nevadans on the importance of sustainable practices to preserve our state's valuable ecosystems; his leadership in responding to invasive species and agricultural pests has safeguarded Nevada's economy and food security, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues and residents across the state; and

WHEREAS, Jeff's passion and dedication to the development and curation of the State of Nevada Entomology Collection has catalogued the discovery of new species within the state and expanded the formal state records for species. He also has provided identification of innumerable samples from the public and agriculture community; and

WHEREAS, Jeff's commitment to excellence is reflected in his membership in a number of respected institutions, including Alpha Zeta, Gamma Sigma Delta, Phi Kappa Phi, the Society for Range Management, the Entomological Society of America, the Pacific Coast Entomology Society, the Coleopterists Society, the New York Entomological Society, and the Entomological Society of Washington; and

WHEREAS, Jeff's mentorship and collaboration have inspired countless professionals in the field of entomology, his colleagues at the Nevada Department of Agriculture, and members of the public he has interacted with over the years, leaving a lasting legacy across the State of Nevada; and

WHEREAS, the Nevada Department of Agriculture and the State of Nevada honors and expresses sincere gratitude to Jeff Knight for his exemplary service. We extend our best wishes for a happy and fulfilling retirement;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim July 4, 2025, as a day in honor of

JEFF KNIGHT