Professor Kakambi Nagaraja, DVM, PhD, passed away July 22, 2020, at the age of 76 after a brief illness. He led the international poultry industry in understanding and treating a variety of infectious diseases. Nagaraja came to the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 1974.

With more than 130 peer-reviewed publications and 10 book chapters to his credit, plus teaching microbiology for 30 years and mentoring approximately 40 graduate students, Nagaraja was a consummate university professor. He lived by the belief that a positive attitude was key to personal success. 

Nagaraja cherished his time with his mentor, Dr. Ben Pomeroy. Consequently, memorials in his honor are directed to supporting the Pomeroy Legacy Scholars program at the University of Minnesota.