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College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

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2018 Outstanding Senior Awards Recipients

The 2018 Outstanding Seniors received their awards during the very first (and final) Outstanding Senior Awards Dinner, hosted by CFAES, on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at the OSU Fawcett Event Center.
The 2018 Outstanding Seniors were also recognized at the 2018 Celebration of Students, an annual student-run event which celebrates student achievements.

2018 Program   

            Outstanding Senior Awards Dinner Photo Gallery           

Ashlee Balcerzak

Ashlee Balcerzak

School of Environment and Natural Resources
     Environmental Science – Water Science
Maumee, OH

While at Ohio State, Ashlee was a resident advisor; a member of Alpha Sigma Upsilon; part of a long-term research project looking for a biological solution to algae blooms; placed second at the CFAES research forum and 3rd place at the Denman; gave a TED talk; and was a committee member for the Jefferson awards (a prize for public service).


Ashlee had many valuable experiences while at Ohio State. She enjoyed being involved in a long-term research project, studying abroad in Panama with the Smithsonian Institute, and studying at the Stone Lab at Ohio State. These experiences were valuable because they helped Ashlee narrow down her true research passions and highlighted how she could make a difference domestically and internationally.


As her mentor, Ashlee selected Steven Lower, a Professor in the School of Environment and Natural Resources. He was influential to Ashlee’s collegiate career by providing guidance and advice over the years, helping Ashlee to discover her true research interests.

Ashlee’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisors were Lauren Pintor (Ashlee’s honors advisor), an Assistant Professor in the School of Environment and Natural Resources, Mazeika Sullivan, an Assistant Professor in the School of Environment and Natural Resources, and Steven Lower, a Professor in the School of Environment and Natural Resources.

Christine Balint

Christine Balint

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Agriscience Education
Huron, OH

Christine’s collegiate career included a variety of experiences.
Christine was involved in the Agricultural Education Society; Alpha
Sigma Upsilon Sorority; Buckeye Dairy Club; College Mentors for
Kids; Buck-I-SERV; the Student Recognition Program Committee; the
Technology for the Panhellenic Association; Buckeyethon; A Day in
the Life of a Buckeye; Collegiate Young Farmers; Towers Agricultural
Honorary; is a CFAES Ambassador; is an OBIC Bioproducts Innovation Center Education and Outreach assistant; was an intern at Ohio FFA Teach Ag.; studied abroad to Spain with Equine Sciences; and to the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium with Dairy Sciences.


One of Christine’s most valuable experiences at Ohio State was her trip to Norman, Oklahoma on a Buck-I-Serve service trip. On this trip, she worked with a tornado survivor and helped to rebuild the survivor’s home through Habitat for Humanity. While in Oklahoma, Christine worked to install insulation and drywall in the new home. She also worked with a local church to talk about the poverty and homelessness in the community. Through working with these social
issues, Christine’s perspectives about homelessness and poverty changed.


When asked to select a mentor, Christine chose Tracy Kitchel, the Chair and a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership. He left a lasting impact on Christine and provided guidance, advice, and insight during her time at Ohio State.


Christine’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was M. Susie Whittington, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Blake Campbell

Blake Campbell

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Agriscience Education
Waterford, OH

During his time at Ohio State, Blake was involved in the Agricultural Education Society; CFAES Student Council; the Alpha Zeta Partners Special Programs, Collegiate FFA at ATI, and Hoof and Hide at ATI; Saddle and Sirloin; was a Little International Swine and Sheep Showman, was a student teacher at the KIPP Academy After School Program; and at Warren High School; he worked for CFAES Education Abroad; and was a CFAES Ambassador and an ATI Ambassador.


Blake cited his most valuable experience while here at Ohio State as leading the Agricultural Education Society’s first Buck-I-SERV experience to the North Texas Food Bank. The trip illustrated issues of food insecurity and the role of agricultural education
in resolving these issues. From this adventure, the Society integrated local food insecurity service projects into the organization. In addition, by serving on the CFAES Ambassador team, Blake had the opportunity to meet people from across the university, travel and engage in professional development and recruitment.


As his mentor, Blake selected Kelly Newlon, Director of Education Abroad & Recruitment in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Science Academic Programs. She was an employer and mentor to Blake, but also became a trusted and wonderful friend.


Blake’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was M. Susie Whittington, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Grace Danemiller

Grace Dannemiller

Department of Agricultural, Environmental,
and Development Economics
     Agribusiness & Applied Economics
Pickerington, OH

Grace enjoyed her time at Ohio State by participating in several
activities, including the CFAES Peer Mentor Program; Agribusiness
Club Secretary; National Ari-Marketing Association; she was an Office of Diversity and Inclusion Scholar; a Life Beyond the Streets PR volunteer; and an H2O Church small group leader; traveled abroad to the Czech Republic; and went on a mission trip to Haiti.


Grace shared her most valuable experience in college as being President of The Ohio State University chapter of the National Agri-Marketing Association where they compete at the national level
marketing a product or service to solve an agriculture related problem. Their fictitious company was called The Cob Co. where they took cobs left in the field and turned them into cash by delivering a complete turn-key solution including equipment, harvest support, transportation, conditioning, and merchandising. Coming in as almost a new team Grace didn’t know what to expect but was pleasantly surprised when they made it to the top six in the nation out of 32 teams. This was an exceptional experience, which prepared Grace to think more critically in a real-world perspective.


Grace chose Scott Holley, a previous NAMA Advisor in the Department of Agricultural, Environment, and Development Economics, as her mentor. He challenged her to get out of her comfort zone and helped Grace discover her passion for marketing and sales.


Grace’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Ian Sheldon, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics.

Mikayla Disbennett

Mikaela Disbennett

Department of Animal Sciences
     Animal Sciences – Animal Biosciences
Croton, OH

While at Ohio State, Mikaela conducted research with the
animal science’s ruminant nutrition laboratory; been a teaching
assistant for several undergraduate courses; was involved in
CFAES Student Council; Alpha Sigma Upsilon; Towers Agricultural
Honorary; Morrill Scholars Program; Back to School Bash; the
Department of Animal Sciences Winter Mixer; Animal Science
Community Alliance; studied abroad in Costa Rica; and interned with the Ohio Wildlife Center and for All Species Education.


Mikaela regarded her most valuable experience outside of academics as her involvements with both Alpha Sigma Upsilon and the Animal Science Community Alliance. These opportunities gave her many amazing experiences and countless friendships. Academically, her most valuable experience was with research, as it allowed her to rediscover her passion for learning and inspire a career in the field.


When asked to select a mentor, Mikaela chose Mariette Benage, a Student Success Coordinator for the Department of Animal Sciences. Mariette was an incredible role model who pushed and encouraged Mikaela to achieve heights she never thought possible.


Mikaela’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Kelly George, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.

Katie Frost

Katie Frost

Department of Animal Sciences
     Animal Sciences – Animal Biosciences
Bloomingburg, OH

Some of the highlights of Katie’s collegiate career included being
involved in Pre-Vet Club; Shades of Animal Sciences; Second-Year
Transformation Experience Program; CRU at OSU (a Christian
student organization); Veterinary Early Commitment Program;
being a CFAES Ambassador; being an Office of Diversity and
Inclusion Morrill Scholar; and a Mount Leadership Society Scholar;
has studied abroad to Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands and Germany; worked as an Office Assistant in Bowen House and Haverfield-Nosker Complex; as a student Assistant in the Office for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment; as a Student Milker at Waterman Dairy Farm; and as a Research Assistant in the Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine.


Katie had invaluable experiences that allowed for personal growth and discovery at Ohio State. By studying Human and Animal Interactions in Spain and Ireland, and Equine Sciences in the Netherlands and Germany, Katie achieved higher levels of cultural awareness, and increased knowledge of agriculture on a global scale. Katie will treasure the relationships fostered at Ohio State for the rest of her life. Whether it was a roommate, advisor, employer, or friend, the people at Ohio State have had a deep and marvelous impact on her life.


Katie selected William Pope, a Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences as her mentor. He shared advice, wisdom and encouragement which had a positive and impactful influence during Katie’s collegiate career.


Katie’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was William Pope.

Ryan Goddard

Ryan Goddard

Department of Agricultural, Environmental,
and Development Economics
     Agribusiness & Applied Economics
Urbana, OH

While at Ohio State, Ryan was involved in the Farmhouse
International Fraternity; Risk Management; Chapter Affairs;
Alpha Zeta Partners; Second-Year Transformational Experience
Program; worked as a Student Assistant to Dr. Susie
Whittington in the department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership.


Ryan had the opportunity to study abroad in Nicaragua and Brazil during his time at Ohio State. He enjoyed immersing himself in different cultures and experiencing global agriculture. By participating in these studies abroad programs, Ryan developed an appreciation for humanity around the world.


When asked to select a mentor, Ryan chose Trina Beebe, an Administrative Office Manager in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership. Trina helped
Ryan to have a smooth transition into college and they connected over their mutual passion for travel.


Ryan’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Ian Sheldon, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics.

Brianna Gwirtz

Brianna Gwirtz

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Agricultural Communication
Shelby, OH

Some of the highlights of Brianna’s collegiate career included being
involved in the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow; CFAES
Ambassador team; Towers Agricultural Honorary; worked
as the assistant editor of the AgriNaturalist; participated in
research on Framing Theory used in Associated Press stories
on wildfires; worked as a Social Media Student Assistant
for CFAES Marketing and Communication; was a free-lance photographer for Ohio Shorthorn Breeders Association; and is the owner of Brianna Gwirtz Photography.


Brianna identified her most valuable experiences to include studying abroad in Scotland and England for almost two weeks. Brianna learned a great deal about herself as a person during these studies abroad programs. She also learned more about international agriculture and agricultural issues.


As her mentor, Brianna selected Shari Peart, a Lecturer at Ohio State ATI’s Division of Arts Science Business and Technology. Shari provided Brianna with great personal and professional advice and helped Brianna to achieve success during her time at Ohio State.

Brianna’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Annie Specht, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Holly Huellemeier

Holly Huellemeier

Department of Food, Agricultural
and Biological Engineering Food,
     Agricultural & Biological Engineering
Georgetown, KY

While at Ohio State, Holly enjoyed being a Graduate Teaching
Associate for Fluid Mechanics and Heat & Mass Transfer in the
Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering
and was involved with the Dale A. Sieberling Food Engineering Lab researching water reclamation in food processing facilities through membrane filtration. Holly serves as a CFAES Ambassador and participated in the leadership summit to Savannah, Georgia this February.


Holly shared her most valuable experiences while here at Ohio State to include choosing Food Engineering as a field of study. As a lesser known major, Food Engineering provided Holly the opportunity to be very specialized in her field. Meeting new people and building relationships was also an important part of Holly’s time at Ohio State, which resulted in meeting her best friend and roommate. Additionally, Holly was able to get through some difficult and stressful times while at Ohio State through her involvement in activities through Buckeyes for Christ.


Jill Arnett, a Strategic Initiatives Project Manager for the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Science Academic Programs, was selected by Holly as her mentor. Jill recruited Holly to Ohio State and taught Holly to be persistent in her efforts while being accountable to her responsibilities as a leader.


Holly’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Gonul Kaletunc, a Professor in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering.

Hannah Jarvis

Hannah Jarvis

Department of Animal Sciences
     Animal Sciences – Animal Biosciences
Homeworth, OH

Some of the highlights of Hannah’s collegiate career included involvement in Buckeye Dairy Club; Saddle and Sirloin; Animal
Science Community Alliance; CFAES Student Council, Ohio
Collegiate Cattle Association; Alpha Sigma Upsilon; CFAES
Voyagers; Ohio Farm Bureau; Buck-I-SERV; and Ohio & Midwest Dairy Challenge competitions; she studied abroad in Europe with the European Dairy Sciences Program; and Nicaragua with the First Year Experience Program.


Hannah noted her most valuable experience at Ohio State as being her involvement with the Animal Science Community Alliance. Through this organization Hannah met a number of wonderful individuals, acted as a teaching assistant, assisted in orchestrating
the Animal Science Student, Staff and Faculty Mixer and Back-2-School-Bash, and runs the department’s social media accounts.


As her mentor, Hannah selected Mariette Benage, a Student Success Coordinator in the Department of Animal Sciences. Mariette was a source of advice, laughs and leadership development.


Hannah’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Michael Davis, a Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.

Taylor Klass

Taylor Klass

Department of Horticulture and Crop Science
     Sustainable Plant Systems - Agronomy
Department of Animal Sciences

     Animal Industries
Columbus, OH

While at Ohio State, Taylor was a CFAES Ambassador; was involved in the Animal Welfare and Behavior Club; Plant Health and Resource Management Club; Guiding Eyes for the Blind Columbus Region; played Intramural soccer; was a Violinist in the OSU Community Orchestra; worked in the CFAES Office of Prospective Student Services as the Experience Ohio State for a Day Co-Coordinator; and participated in the Intercollegiate Animal Welfare Judging/Assessment Contest.


Taylor's valuable experience included being part of the CFAES Ambassador Team. Interacting with prospective students and giving tours of the CFAES campus was her favorite part of being an ambassador. Taylor also had the privilege to go on two international trips to Nicaragua and Uganda. While in Uganda, she focused on her honors research project with smallholder, urban dairy farms she interviewed 10 different Ugandan dairy farmers, each of which had one or two dairy cows to provide milk for their family and to sell.


David Barker and Kent Harrison, both Professors in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, were selected as Taylor’s mentors. Taylor values the connections they have helped her to make as well as the constant support and guidance they have provided during her undergraduate years.


Taylor’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisors were Pasha Lyvers-Peffer (Taylor’s Animal Sciences and Honors Advisor) an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences, and Kent Harrison (Taylor’s Horticulture and Crop Science Advisor).

Landon Lindemer

Landon Lindemer

Department of Agricultural, Environmental,
and Development Economics
     Agribusiness & Applied Economics
West Liberty, OH

Landon’s collegiate career at Ohio State included participating
in the FarmHouse International Fraternity; Alpha Zeta Partners;
studying abroad to Brazil and Nicaragua; working as an AEDE
student Assistant; an active member of the H2O church; and
traveling on a mission trip to Haiti.


Serving as President of the Farmhouse International Fraternity and studying abroad were among the most valuable experiences Landon had during his collegiate career. These experiences challenged him to think outside of the box and opened his eyes to the interconnectedness of the world. It also provided him with  opportunities to grow as a leader.


Landon selected Katie Miller, an Academic Advisor & Undergraduate Program Coordinator in the Department of Agricultural, Environment, and Development Economics, as his mentor. Katie challenged Landon and helped him to build skills academically and professionally that he will use every day in his future career.


Landon’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Ian Sheldon, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics.

Frances Nicol

Frances Nicol

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Agriscience Education
Plain City, OH

Frances participated in many activities during her collegiate
career, including the Agricultural Education Society; Agriculture
Communicators of Tomorrow; Buckeye Dairy Club; Towers
Agricultural Honorary; CFAES Celebration of Students Steering
Committee; researched in the ACEL department to help shape the
pre-service agricultural education program; worked for the Union
County OSU Extension Office with 4-H Youth Development.


Frances’ most valuable experiences while in college included being involved in the Agricultural Education Society which provided her with countless opportunities to network with her peers and grow in the teaching profession. Frances had the opportunity to meet alumni of the department who are now in various careers, participate in community service opportunities, and travel. One of her fondest memories was traveling to Dallas, Texas with fellow club members as well as other OSU students through Buck-I-SERV. Their goal was to educate the community about food production and availability while working at the local food bank. These experiences helped her to realize her passion for educating about agriculture in any facet.


When asked to identify a mentor, Frances chose Tracy Kitchel, the Chair and a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership. He took time to invest
in her professional development and prepare Frances for her future as an agricultural educator.


Frances’ CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was M. Susie Whittington, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Monica Pennewitt

Monica Pennewitt

Department of Plant Pathology
     Plant Pathology
Wilmington, OH

Monica participated in many opportunities during her collegiate career including CFAES Student Council; Farm to Fork Committee; Collegiate Young Farmers; Agriculture Future of America; Alpha Sigma Upsilon Agricultural Sorority; CFAES Peer Mentor Program; was an Ohio Soybean Ambassador; assisted in the Nematology lab for Dr. Anne Dorrance and Dr. Terry Niblack and was a teaching assistant.


She recounted her most valuable experiences while here at Ohio State as her time serving as the CFAES Student Council President and studying abroad. Through these experiences, Monica had the opportunity to work with students, faculty and staff across the College, as well as collaborate with alumni on projects that the council hosts for the students’ benefit. Through studying abroad Monica was able to meet new people, experience global
agriculture and expand her thinking which will serve her well in the future.


Sarah Williams a Student Success Experiences Coordinator in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Science Academic Programs, was selected by Monica as her mentor. Sarah has been a great support to Monica throughout her experience at Ohio State
from start to finish.


Monica’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Thomas Mitchell, a Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology.

Emily Starlin

Emily Starlin

Department of Animal Sciences
     Animal Sciences – Animal Industries
Logan, OH

Emily’s collegiate career included being a CFAES Ambassador;
being involved in the Animal Science Community Alliance;
Poultry Science Club; Buck-I-SERV; H20 church; Sigma Alpha
Agricultural Professional Sorority; CFAES’ Student Council; Ohio
State’s Collegiate Poultry Judging Team; and represented OSU
at the Center of Excellence Scholarship Program.


Ohio State gave Emily the opportunity to develop the ability to create herself and to mold her time at Ohio State into exactly what she needed to be successful. Whether it be the specific courses she took, clubs she joined, the study abroad programs she participated
in, or the people she met, every decision she made has allowed Emily to become exactly who she feels she was meant to be.


Emily selected Mariette Benage, a Student Success Coordinator in the Department of Animal Sciences, as her mentor. Mariette taught Emily that the length of time you know a person does not directly affect the impact a person can have on your life.


Emily’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Michael Cressman, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.

Mariah Stollar

Mariah Stollar

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Community Leadership – Community & Extension Education
Marietta, OH

Ohio State gave Mariah the opportunity to work as an OSU
Extension Operations/Learning and Organization Development
intern and undergraduate researcher; she was a CFAES peer
mentor and researcher; and was involved in the Alpha Sigma
Upsilon sorority.


Mariah reported her most valuable experiences while here at Ohio State to be serving as president of the Alpha Sigma Upsilon sorority, conducting undergraduate research and completing several county and state internships with OSU Extension. She felt that these
opportunities helped to develop her leadership, scholarship, and professionalism.


When asked to identify a mentor, Mariah chose Greg Davis, a Professor & Assistant Director of OSU Extension at the Ohio State University Extension. He advocated for Mariah, provided
guidance, and supported her undergraduate research.


Mariah’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Scott Scheer, a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Marina Sweet

Marina Sweet

Department of Animal Sciences
     Animal Sciences – Animal Biosciences
London, OH

Some of the highlights of Marina’s collegiate career included
involvement in Buckeye Dairy Club; Poultry Science Club; Food
Animal Medicine Club; Towers Agricultural Honorary; CFAES
Student Council; Changing Health, Attitudes + Actions to Recreate
Girls (CHAARG); and Biological Sciences Scholars. Marina also
participated in an undergraduate research project with dairy calves.

Marina chronicled her most valuable experiences to include getting involved with Buckeye Dairy Club and studying abroad four times. All of the programs Marina participated in were offered through the Department of Animal Sciences and allowed her to continue her
interest in learning more about animals and their environments. Additionally, Marina spent all three of her summer jobs and internships working with dairy and beef cattle.


Maurice Eastridge, a Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences was identified by Marina as her mentor. He played a pivotal role in Marina’s undergraduate career with her interest in dairy and assisted in identifying internship opportunities. He has been a phenomenal academic advisor by being a great listener and supporter.


Marina’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Maurice Eastridge.

Mandy Taylor

Mandy Taylor

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Agricultural Communication
Millersburg, OH

During her collegiate career, Mandy was very active
in the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT); the
CFAES Ambassador Team; studied abroad in Brazil; and has
enjoyed working as a Student Assistant for the front desk of the
Academic Programs office.


Being involved in student organizations enhanced Mandy’s college experience tremendously, but she’ll never forget being deep in a cave in Brazil with other CFAES students singing Carmen Ohio in pure darkness. That moment and the entire sixweek experience in Brazil changed Mandy’s perspective on life and gave her a deep
appreciation for other cultures. Having the opportunity to study abroad is something that opened her eyes and gave her a true meaning of what it’s like to be a Buckeye.


Mandy selected Emily Buck, an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership. Emily guided Mandy academically and pushed her to pursue opportunities beyond her comfort zone.


Mandy’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Annie Specht, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Ryan Vonderhaar

Ryan Vonderhaar

Department of Agricultural Communication,
Education, and Leadership
     Agricultural Communication
Camden, OH

Some of the highlights of Ryan’s collegiate career included involvement in the ATZ Farmhouse International Fraternity; starting the Be The Match program; was a CFAES Ambassador; he worked as the Public Relations Intern with the Columbus Blue Jackets professional hockey team; wrote several news articles for the campus newspaper; and produced news segments and entertaining television shows for BuckeyeTV.


One of Ryan’s most valuable experiences during his time here at Ohio State was being a CFAES ambassador. Through learning strong interpersonal skills, interacting with prospective students and being a part of a very supportive team made it an experience he will cherish.

Ryan selected Amy Jo Baughman, a Prospective Student Services Coordinator in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Science Academic Programs as his mentor. Amy Jo has always been a person Ryan could go to for advice and understanding.


Ryan’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Emily Buck, an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership.

Katherine Wolfe

Katherine Wolfe

Department of Plant Pathology
     Plant Pathology
Louisville, OH

While at Ohio State, Katherine was a CFAES Ambassador; was involved in the Plant Health & Resource Management Club; Buckeye Dairy Club; Collegiate Farm Bureau; Ohio Farm Bureau’s Young
Agricultural Professional Program; she has interned with AgroLiquid Diversified, OARDC Soybean Pathology Field Research; and the Ohio Department of Agriculture Consumer Protection Laboratory.

Katherine singled out her most valuable experience at Ohio State as the opportunity to be involved in the Borlaug Dialogue International Symposium at The World Food Prize in Des Moines, Iowa. Being able to attend The World Food Prize transformed the way Katherine looks at food security and the global challenges in agriculture. This experience greatly shaped her outlook on agriculture and has allowed her to gain a global perspective that she knows will help her throughout her career.

As her mentor, Katherine selected Monica Lewandowski, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology. Monica was an influential mentor, giving exceptional advice and helping Katherine align her college career with her goals and passions.

Katherine’s CFAES Faculty Academic Advisor was Thomas Mitchell, a Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology.

2018 cos program cover