Alumni Spotlight: Whitney Fogle Gentry ’93

 

Whitney Fogle Gentry completed a bachelor of science in agricultural communication in 1993. Gentry now works as the leader of business development for the Fayette County Memorial Hospital.

[ACEL]: Hi Whitney! You majored in agricultural communication as an undergraduate at Ohio State. Why did you select that major?
English and writing were always my favorite subjects. Combining that with growing up on a small farm, agricultural communication and rural sociology seemed like the perfect combination.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
I was the only student in my high school who was involved in agriculture. When I toured Ohio State and saw the dorm rooms of students studying agriculture and the pictures of their champion animals on display, I knew I’d be around people with similar interests.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career ?
Through school I stumbled on an internship with the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s Division of Markets for a summer. That helped me get my foot in the door and was my first full time job.

What were you involved in as an Ohio State student?
I was a member off Saddle & Sirloin and worked just over two years as a resident advisor in Drackett Tower.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State?
Don’t really have a stand out. I remember everything from ice skating, to English, to agricultural economics, to Greek mythology.

What faculty or staff member had an impact on your time at Ohio State?
My boss at Drackett Tower, Tei Street. She has a drive for excellence and a zest for life!

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
I don’t have just one single memory. There are so many! Fall football Saturdays, working the bull clip for Saddle & Sirloin, fun memories as an RA. They all add up to a great experience.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
I was the marketing specialist with the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

What other companies have you worked for throughout your career?
Ohio Dept of Agriculture, Ohio Farm Bureau, United Way of Fayette County and Fayette County Chamber of Commerce.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
My internship at ODA was to help organize the Pearl Alley Farmers Market in downtown Columbus. It’s great to see that still going and thriving and to now I had a hand in getting that off the ground.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Get involved in as many extra curricular clubs and events as you can! Make the most of your time at OSU.

 

 

Alumni Spotlight: Dr. R. Kirby Barrick ’70, ’73 M.S., ’80 Ph.D.

 

Dr. Kirby Barrick ’70, ’73 M.S., ’80 Ph.D. is a three-time alum of the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership, with all three degrees concentrating on agricultural education. Now retired dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Florida and professor emeritis, Barrick resides in Gainesville, Florida. He also served as a member of the ACEL Centennial Endowment committee.

Why did you select to major in agricultural education?
I knew in high school that I wanted to be a teacher. By my junior year I knew I wanted to be a vo-ag teacher. I was greatly influenced by my teacher (John Stimpert); he was the best vo-ag teacher I have ever known!

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
After thinking about going elsewhere, I easily decided on Ohio State. After all, why not – a top college of agriculture and the best agricultural education department in the country.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
I was well-prepared to be a high school vo-ag teacher. Then things just seemed to develop. Obviously, my Ph.D. in teacher education and higher education led me to a faculty position and eventually into administration.

Share with us how you were involved in student life outside of the classroom.
I joined Alpha Gamma Rho and served as a vice-president and then president of the chapter. I was president of the Agricultural Education Society. I served on Ag College Council, and Social Board (determined activities at the Ohio Union), was Homecoming Queen Committee Chair, May Week General Chairman, and a member of the Senior Class Committee. I was initiated into Bucket & Dipper.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State?
The agricultural education classes, of course, were good and very important for my career objective. I also enjoyed most of the agriculture classes, especially the advanced entomology course.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education?
Dr. Bender and Dr. Warmbrod are clearly at the top of the list. I recall being in the graduate teaching methods course with Dr. Bender. While the content was great, watching and learning from a master teacher was phenomenal. Dr. Warmbrod has many of those same characteristics.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
Alpha Gamma Rho continues to be an important part of my life. AGR and FFA made me who I am today as a person. Those were great times for learning and having fun. I still get together with initiation class buddies each year.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
Vocational Agriculture Instructor at Sheridan High School (Northern Local Schools), Thornville, OH.

Share with us where your career has taken you over the years.
Sheridan High School – vo-ag teacher
Ohio Department of Education – assistant state supervisor, Agricultural Education Service
Ohio State University – faculty member in Department of Agricultural Education and then department chair, assistant director of Ohio State University Extension and State 4-H Leader
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Associate Dean, College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental sciences, and professor of Agricultural Education
University of Florida – dean, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and professor of Agricultural Education

What honors and awards have you been presented over your career?

  • Fulbright Specialist, 2009 – 2013; 2017 – 2021
  • International Educator of the Year, University of Florida International Center, 2016
  • NACTA Murray Brown Leadership Award, 2016
  • UF 150thAnniversary Morrill Act Faculty Award, 2012
  • Distinguished Lecturer, American Association for Agricultural Education, 2011
  • Hall of Fame, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, 2010
  • Honorary State FFA Degree, Florida FFA, 2010
  • Distinguished Alumni Award, Ohio State College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, 2005
  • University of Illinois Dads Association Outstanding Faculty Award, 2004
  • Russell Guin Outstanding Agricultural Educator, American Association for Agricultural Education, 2004
  • Distinguished Educator Award, National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture, 2001
  • Centennial Award, Alpha Zeta National Honorary Fraternity, 1997
  • Fellow, American Association for Agricultural Education, 1996
  • Outstanding Adviser Award, Ohio State University Agriculture and Natural Resources Student Council, 1996
  • Honorary Member, Agricultural Education Society, Ohio State University, 1991
  • Distinguished Service Award, Ohio Vocational Agriculture Techers Association, 1991
  • Delegate Coordinator Award, National FFA, 1991
  • Ohio State University Alumni Distinguished Teaching Award, 1988 (one of eight awarded annually)
  • Outstanding Young Teacher Award, Ohio State University College of Agriculture, 1986
  • Honorary American Farmer Degree, National FFA Organization, 1985
  • Pomerene Teaching Enhancement Award, Ohio State University College of Agriculture, 1985
  • Outstanding Young Teacher Educator, American Association of Teacher Educators in Agriculture, 1984
  • Honorary State FFA Degree, Ohio FFA Association, 1975

Outside of your career, what organizations or activities are you involved with in your community?

  • Various committees and choirs at five United Methodist Churches: First Gainesville, Gainesville Trinity, First Champaign, Grove City, Faith (West Chester), and Somerset
  • President and member, Alpha Gamma Rho National Board of Directors
  • Board of Directors, The Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
The department chair is the most important and most difficult position in a university. My term as chair at Ohio State was very rewarding. We had limited funds (I had to “give back” a lot of operating money my first week on the job!!), but the department thrived because we had an outstanding group of undergraduate and graduate students and a devoted faculty and staff. It was a pleasure to serve as chair of the top department in the country and to watch students over the years become successful teachers and Extension agents, university faculty and administrators, and all-around excellent scholars.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Remember that the undergraduate experience is two-fold: being successful in your academic pursuits and developing personal skills that last a lifetime. Work hard, study hard, become involved, and give back to your alma mater.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
I knew in high school that I wanted to teach vocational agriculture. The department was great in helping me develop the skills I needed to begin and advance in a career in teaching and learning as well as in administration. I still enjoy sharing what I learned with others, especially now with university faculty in the U.S. and abroad.

Speaking as the Ohio FFA President in 1966.

 

Senior photo at Ohio State – 1970

 

Awarded as an Honorary American Farmer in 1985.

 

Ohio State’s Distinguished Teaching Award in 1988

 

Speaking at the 2007 commencement for the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Florida as dean.

 

 

Teaching in Saudi Arabia in 2018

 

Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Douglas Pletsch ’66 M.S., ’68 Ph.D.

 

Dr. Douglas Pletsch joined the department in 1965 as a graduate student from Fergus, Ontario, Canada. Pletsch completed a master’s and doctorate degree in agricultural and extension education. He spent 35 years as a faculty member in rural extension studies at the University of Guelph and retired in 2003.

[ACEL]: Hello Dr. Pletsch! Share with us why you decided to come to the Department of Agricultural Education (now ACEL) to complete your graduate degrees at Ohio State.
At the time of application, my wife, Vera, and I were working in a community development project in Brazil, administered by the Evangelical United Brethren Church (now part of the United Methodist Church) in collaboration with the Igreja Crista e Congregacionais do Brasil.  My undergraduate degree was in crop science, but it became evident in our work that information dissemination was very important and anything that could be done to facilitate that was a winning approach.

Our supporting congregation was in Marion, Ohio.  Having visited Marion and Columbus before going to Brazil, Ohio State was already a consideration when it came time to apply for graduate studies.  I applied to three universities in the United States.  Ohio State’s application package came via air mail, the other two by sea.  By the time I received those applications, I had already been accepted at Ohio State.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
My time at Ohio State was extremely important.  Shortly before completing my Ph.D. I was contacted by the University of Guelph to consider filling a position in the Department of Extension Education. Our plan was to return to Brazil, but because union of the Methodist and EUB denominations was about to take place, the position in Brazil was unclear, and I was advised to seriously consider the position at the University of Guelph, which I accepted.

Did you have a faculty member or advisor who was influential during your time at Ohio State?
Dr. Robert McCormick was my M.S. and Ph.D. advisor.  He was an excellent role model and extremely helpful in making my time at Ohio State a cherished experience. Dr. Ralph Bender, chair of the Department, made us feel welcome, important and provided encouragement. As a Canadian, I was one of a number of foreign students, and without exception, we were well received and felt at ease.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
Upon graduation in 1968, I joined the Department of Extension Education at the University of Guelph (U of G), in Ontario, Canada and I retired in 2003.  My experiences as a faculty member at the University provided opportunities to be involved, not only in at the University but also in the community and in international development projects.

What positions have you held throughout your career?
Organization: The Agricultural Institute of Canada, The Ontario Institute of Agrology, The Canadian Society of Extension and The Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program.

My position at the U of G provided opportunities to be a part of several out of country projects. Our family spent three years at the University of Ghana as part of an institutional building project with that University. Subsequently, I worked with Ryerson University (Toronto) on a project of institutional building at Nur University in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. More recently, I assisted with distance learning projects at Tamil Nadu University in India and another at Mansoura University in Egypt.

During your career, have you received any awards or honors?
Life Member, Canadian Society of Extension, Centennial Award of the Department of Agricultural Education, OSU.

How are you involved in your community outside of your career?
I have been a member of Rotary for the last 19 years.  We are also active in our local church and volunteer with the local food bank and other community organizations.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?

One highlight is difficult to bring to mind, I am humbled by the number of opportunities I have had to interact with international colleagues and students in several countries. This has allowed me to experience their culture and observe the desire and work to improve the lives of their fellow citizens.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Don’t underestimate your abilities and opportunities. Focus your efforts on helping others.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
I felt a part of the educational experience at Ohio State.  I was extremely fortunate to have professors who provided an optimal opportunity to explore diverse approaches to research and the search for improving lives.  I adopted that approach in my own teaching, international activities and working with graduate students.

 

Graduating with my doctorate degree in 1968.

 

Graduating with my master’s degree in 1966.

 

The Pletsch family in 1968.

 

 

 

 

 

Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Smith, ’17 Ph.D.

Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Smith earned a doctorate in agricultural and extension education in 2017. Following her completion of the program, she moved to Manchester, Tennessee, where she works as an assistant professor at Middle Tennessee State University.

[ACEL]: Hi Dr. Smith! You completed your Ph.D. in agricultural and extension education. Why did you make that decision?
After talking with other respected Extension professionals I was guided toward ACEL. I was already working for Ohio State as a regional specialist at the time of enrollment.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career?
I enjoyed classes and many of the faculty that facilitated the courses in which I was enrolled. I felt like teaching and working with young adults would be something I would enjoy. I love to learn and knew teaching would allow me to continue learning.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State?
I enjoyed the leadership course and the study abroad to Honduras. I also enjoyed the public health courses I took.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education?
I respected and enjoyed many of the faculty at Ohio State. Dr. Jamie Cano, Dr. Filson, Dr. King, Dr. Gail Kaye, Dr. Sherer, and Dr. Wittington. I enjoyed their passion and advice regarding career and living life to the fullest.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
My study abroad trip to Honduras.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
Assistant Professor at Middle Tennessee State University. I teach senior level medical nutrition therapy, coaching and counseling, community nutrition, and nutrition education.

How are you involved in your community outside of your career?
I serve as a judge for 4-H projects and am involved in my church.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?

We had a 95% internship match rate for our dietetic students this year. Very proud of the students and all of their hard work.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Participate in a study abroad – you will learn so much about your self while giving back to others. Follow your dreams and love what you do. I absolutely love teaching- the students, faculty and staff are wonderful to work alongside day by day.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
Encourage others to reach their potential, never give up your dreams.

 

Dr. Cano presenting my hood at my commencement ceremony in May 2017.

 

My farewell party from the OSU Extension office.

Alumni Spotlight: Sarah Jane Duffy ’02

Sarah Jane Duffy graduated in 2002 with a bachelor of science in agriculture. Her major, agricultural communication, prepared her for her career with the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) where she serves as a public information officer. 

[ACEL]: Hi Sarah! Tell us why did you select your major?

[Duffy]: It was important to me to have a bachelor of science. A degree in agricultural communication allowed me to pursue a communications and photojournalism focused curriculum while maintaining a science background.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?

When I was in 4th grade we took a field trip to the Ohio State farms on Sawmill Road – I was hooked. I immediately started telling anyone and everyone that I was going to study animal husbandry and breed horses when I grow up. In the end I chose Ohio State because it was the best fit for me educationally, athletically (I was on the cross country team my freshman year) and financially.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?

I always say I ended up at the other ODA. I had a strong interest in health and human sciences after abandoning my childhood dream of being a horse breeder. Between my major and my work with the Lantern, The Makio and Columbus Public Health (my internship) I was well prepared to enter the field of public information.

Share with us the student organizations and campus life activities in which you were involved.

It might be easier to list what the ones which I wasn’t involved. Sigma Alpha, FEAS Student Council, Saddle and Sirloin, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Beanie Drake Student Leader Endowment Fund, OSU cross country team, intramural hockey, Columbus Symphony Summer Series Board of Directors, photo editor of the Lantern, re-founding photo editor of the The Makio – Ohio State’s Yearbook, I worked at The Faculty Club, to name a few.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State?

I enjoyed my laboratory class working on the Lantern the most. Rose Hume made a lasting impact on me. I also loved my fine art photography classes and spending time in the darkroom – back when we used to develop our own photos. Digital photography was just getting a foothold during my college years.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education?

Rose Hume, the Lantern staff advisor, and Dr. Sherrie Whaley, my advisor and professor, both made lasting impacts on my career development and guiding me along my education path. Dr. Zartman and Dean Moser also made a lasting impact on me and always made this city girl feel welcomed and appreciated.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State
How do you choose just one? Having my photos of Katy Smith’s number being retired picked up the AP. Showing my first heifer in the Little I. Jumping in Mirror Lake. The fear and excitement of cover the riots on campus that resulted in winning an award for our coverage and my images. My fondest memories are all the people with whom I connected and stay connect with to this day. How firm thy friendship isn’t just a line in my favorite song, it’s a very real way of life for us Buckeyes.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?

I have been with the Ohio Department of Aging since December 2002. When you are fortunate enough to make an impact on the lives of your fellow Ohioans and their communities, you just keep on doing what you love.

How have you stayed involved in your community outside of your career?
I am the president of the Young Buckeyes of Central Ohio. The social media chair for the Franklin County Alumni Club. I am still active with Sigma Alpha sorority and was named the Outstanding Sigma Alpha Alumna in 2015.

During your career, have you received any awards or honors? If so, what are those? Employee of the Quarter. We don’t participate in award competitions as it would not be a good use of taxpayer money. So, nothing of note to mention.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
Meeting with and learning from the amazing older Ohioans I’ve had to pleasure to interact with throughout my career. I enjoy making a difference in lives of our elders as I work to empower them and strengthen our communities, by promoting active aging and positive attitudes toward aging.

What advice would you give to a current student?

Be engaged both in, and out of the the classroom. Many of the experiences and relationships I forged outside the classroom had the greatest impact on me and who I’ve become.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?

ACEL cultivated my ability to express myself not only visually, but in written and spoken word.

Alumni Spotlight: Xiang Gu ’16

Xiang Gu came to The Ohio State University as a community leadership major for autumn semester 2012 from Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. He was the first freshman to declare this new major (formerly known as specializations of the agricultural and extension education major). After four years in Columbus, “Shaun” graduated with a bachelor of science. Shaun now works for The Ohio State University in Shanghai, China as an alumni relations and event planning specialist with the China Gateway Office.

Why did you select the community leadership major?
When I received the [admittance] offer from Ohio State, I also got a list of “recommended majors”. I wanted to pick a major with less Chinese student and this major caught my eye. After the discussion with my parents I made this bold, but right decision.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
Good question for international students – most of us haven’t been to the United States of America before we started our campus life, including me. So we choose the school based on the information online and from our friends. My reasons were: 1. good academic reputation, 2. affordable tuition fee and 3. located in urban area.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
Well I think my job now is kind of self-explained. Ohio State not only offered me great academic resource, but also a global vision. So I would like to share this great experience with more Chinese students and alumni.

How were you involved in the campus outside of our academics?
I have some friends from Taiwan so I joined TWSA in my freshman year.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State? 
It’s a difficult question. I will say photography. Although I didn’t do well in that class, I did learn some skills from this class – and it’s very useful in the real life.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education?
I will say Dr. Robert Birkenholz and Dr. Jeff King. They not only helped me with my studies at Ohio State, but also offered a lot of help in my campus life. They shared their own experience, knowledge and time with me selflessly. I sincerely appreciate their help during the time I spent at Ohio State.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
The time we won the [football] National Championship in 2015. Celebrating with other friends on The Oval.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
I worked in a small local company in Columbus as an E-commercial operation specialist.

For what schools, companies and/or organizations have you worked throughout your career?
After the job in Columbus, I went to Africa (Angola, Kenya and South Africa) and worked for McKinsey as a project assistant. Then I went back to China to serve the buckeye community.

How are you involved in your community outside of your career?
I worked close with buckeye community in the Greater China area and involved in nearly every alumni events.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
I will say the time I spent in Africa with Mckinsey.

  • Participated in China Africa Investment Opportunity Outlook Project as surveyor in Angola and South Africa
  • Interviewed 90+ Chinese entrepreneur of SOE and private sector, collected data, completed survey and wrote field report
  • Analyzed data and composed 500 pages PPT of all project-related African countries

What advice would you give to a current student?
Take a broader view. This world is big and try to explore it before the death.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
Global vision and critical thinking through the ACEL education program and staff.

 

OHIO with friends.

 

During my work in Africa with McKinsey.

Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Cheryl Ruey-Fen Bain ’00 PhD

Dr. Cheryl Ruey-Fen Bain graduated with a doctorate in agricultural education in 2000. Originally from Taiwan, Bain spent five years at Ohio State and then returned to her native country. She currently works as an associate professor in the Department of Leisure and Recreation Management and General Education at De-Yeah University.

[ACEL]: Hello Dr. Bain! Why did you select your graduate program and to attend Ohio State?
[Bain]: I graduated from National Taiwan University in 1990. I was working as a teaching assistant and met the ACEL graduate chair, Dr. Larry Miller, when he visited National Taiwan University during spring semester in 1994.  Dr. Miller recruited me to apply OSU.

I was also very lucky to have Rotary International 3-year Ambassador scholarship supported by D3460 (Taichung Taiwan) and hosted by D6690 (Columbus, Ohio).  

I knew many former Ohio State alumni, such as Dr. Liao Cheng-hong, Dr. Shaio, Kuen-shan, and Dr. Shin-Shin Chen, who recommend me the outstanding program of agricultural education. In addition, Ohio State was land-grand university with strong top 4-H program which attracted me when I worked for National 4-H Club Association of R.O.C.  The most important thing was Dr. John Mount, one of rotarians who was vice president at Ohio State, volunteer to be my consultant for 3-year ambassador scholarship.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
I took courses and participatde in 4-H Extension program to explore and empower my knowledge and capability under Dr. Larry Miller, Dr. Wesley Budke, Dr. Cathy Cox, and my mentor and Rotary International scholarship consultant, Dr. John Mount. Now, I am a Rotarian in D3462 since 2003, and advisor of 4-H Club at Da-Yeh University. 

What were you involved in as an Ohio State student?
I worked as a research assistant for Dr. Larry Brown on his water management project, then I also worked at CCME for more then two years before I attained my Ph.D.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State? What was your favorite and why?
The 995 statistics instructed by Dr. R. Warmboard who guided with practical exercises. I took 995 course syllabus to start my first very graduate course in Da-Yeh University as a popular course in 2000.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education and career?
There were so many great teachers, and staff who assisted my learning at OSU, if only one that I have to choose, I have to pick up Dr. John Mount who became my life mentor and role model.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
The summer 4-H leadership camp as counselor as well as 4-H dormitory supervisor under the instruction of Dr. John Mount and Dr. Cathy Cox at Camp Ohio and the Ohio State Fair. I was the first Asian student to work at camp and state fair to learn by doing with great pleasure.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
After I attained my Ph.D., I return to my home country, Taiwan, to be an assistant professor at the very first department of Leisure and Recreation management at Da-Yeh University in Taiwan. I brought my camping experience to teach and worked for international exchange program in many programs such as 4-H Exchange, Rotary Youth Exchange, and Group Study Exchange with more than 10 countries.

Share the positions you have held throughout your career.
I have been worked for National Taiwan University and Da-Yeh University in my academic career taking more than dozen of research projects on education, tourism, and recreation.

I also volunteer for many international exchange program, such as Rotary International in Youth Exchange, and Group Study Exchange.

During your career, have you received any awards or honors?
I have received as outstanding teaching faculty at Da-Yeh University for more than 5 times since 2009.

As a delegate of Group Study Exchange Program to D1570 in the Netherland in 2003 and became the first female leader of Rotary International Group Study Exchange program with D7190 in 2009.

How are you involved in your community outside of your career?
I helps college students to apply to oversea study programs and there are more than 60 students that have visited South Korea and the United States.

I volunteer for many international exchange program, such as Rotary International in Youth Exchange and Group Study Exchange.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
The international exchange program that I achieved as the first female Rotary International Group Study Exchange leader in Taiwan.

There are more than 60 colleges under my instruction to take camp internships in the United States.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Just do it, God will reward us with His best!

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
ACEL empowered and enriched my informal education experience such as 4-H leadership camp, state fair working experience.  I have been very lucky to enroll OSU to change my life, I cherish and pride to be part of members of ACEL family.

 

 

Alumni Spotlight: Hayley Beck ’15

Hayley Beck ’15 majored in agricultural communication. After three years at Ohio State, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree and now works for United Producers, Inc. as a marketing and communications specialist.

[ACEL]: Hi Haley! You majored in agricultural communication at Ohio State. Share with us why you made your decision to choose that major and to become a Buckeye.
[Beck]: I choose to major in agricultural communication because I have a passion for agriculture and wanted to promote and advocate agriculture to producers and consumers. Agricultural communication allowed me to combine writing, design and marketing to reach consumers and producers while promoting a positive image of agriculture. When I was in high school, I took a trip to Ohio State ATI and to the Columbus campus and fell in love. I knew after my first visit with the department that I wanted to attend Ohio State and major in agricultural communication.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
My job with United Producers allows me to see all aspects of communications. I am fortunate to be able to do a lot of different tasks — no two days are the same. I feel that my education at Ohio State prepared me for that through the coursework and internship requirements. From graphic design to writing, and from web design to public relations, the experience I gained a Ohio State prepared me for my career.

What were you involved in as an Ohio State student outside of the classroom?
I was a member of Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) and the Young Ag Professionals.

What classes did you enjoy the most while a student?
There were several classes that I enjoyed, but my favorite class was AGRCOMM 4130 Publication Design and Production with Cassaundra Dietrich. The class introduced me to the Adobe Suite (InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop) which allowed me to be creative and sparked an interest for graphic design. I also enjoyed the AgriNaturalist class because it allowed me to combine all the knowledge and skills of writing, reporting and graphic design that I learned in all of my courses in one class.

Did you have a faculty member that was influential in your education?
My advisor, Dr. Emily Buck, was a huge asset to my college experience. She was very knowledgeable and always willing to help when needed. I also enjoyed having Cassaundra Dietrich as a professor, she had real-world experience that was extremely helpful and she always offered advice to better myself as a student and young professional.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
My top two memories are studying abroad in Greece winter of 2014 and attending the National Championship football game in 2015 with my parents.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
My first and current job is with United Producers.

As a student, what internships did you complete?
Prior to graduating, I interned at Ohio Farm Bureau as the Ohio State Fair Land and Living Exhibit Intern.

During your career, have you received any awards or honors?
I recently received the Master Cooperative Communicator (MCC) designation through the Cooperative Communicators Association. The program signifies a level of professionalism and competency and demonstrates the candidates have mastered the knowledge and skills necessary to communicate on behalf of cooperatives. MCC also rewards professional involvement and volunteer activities.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Be active. Whether you are active in student organizations, internships, Greek life, or whatever interests you, just be active. Meeting new people and networking with your peers and future colleagues is very important.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
ACEL cultivated in me a foundation for my future. Whether it was in class, clubs and organizations or special events hosted by the department, ACEL created a strong foundation of contacts, knowledge and experience to guide me through my career.

 

OHIO in Greece.

Graduation day from Ohio State!

Alumni Spotlight: Whittney Bowers ’10

 

 

Whittney Smith Bowers came to Ohio State from Piketon, Ohio in 2006 and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in agricultural communication in 2010. Bowers currently is the director of grassroots and political outreach for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation in Columbus, Ohio.

[ACEL]: Hi Whittney! Why did you select to major in agricultural communication?
[Bowers]: I selected agricultural communication because I wanted to help bridge the gap between consumers and producers. I knew this program would help me learn how to effectively communicate all types of information to different audiences.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
Once you decide to study agriculture, the natural choice is to attend Ohio State. As a Land Grant University, and one of the largest universities in the country, being a Buckeye offers tremendous opportunity–both during your time there and post graduation.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
My education has been the catalyst for my career, in every internship and post graduation job I have held, there is a direct link to the courses I took at Ohio State.

What were you involved in as an Ohio State student?
I was involved with the Adopt-A-Class program, ACT, and the study abroad program while at Ohio State.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State?
I enjoyed my writing classes, exploring the differences between feature writing, news writing, technical and scientific writing, and everything in between. Being able to write in diverse styles has been an asset to my career and the different opportunities I have had.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education?
I am grateful for Dr. Buck’s mentoring and the opportunities she took time to help me pursue. She helped widen my eyes at what was before me and helped me to not be so narrowly focused, and I was able to grow as a student once I realized what was available to me.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
My favorite memory of my time at Ohio State was serving as Editor of the AgriNaturalist. Putting together a magazine from start to finish in a couple months time, selling the ad pages, reading the fantastic stories my classmates were writing, it was all a tremendous experience that directly correlated to my first job. I also enjoyed getting to cover the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board ballot initiative, which was a special assignment I had the opportunity to write about for the Lantern.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
My first job was as Assistant Editor of the Jersey Journal, a monthly publication from the American Jersey Cattle Association.

What positions have you held since your graduation from Ohio State?
Since graduation from Ohio State, I have worked for the American Jersey Cattle Association in different capacities, and in my current position at Ohio Farm Bureau Federation as director of grassroots and political outreach.

During your career, have you received any awards or honors?
I recently completed the Ohio State Young Alumni Academy.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
During my time at Ohio Farm Bureau I have been able to work closely on issues surrounding the Current Agricultural Use Value, CAUV, and how it has impacted land owners in Ohio. In June of 2017 the Ohio General Assembly passed legislation to bring relief to those with land enrolled in the CAUV program, which had seen drastic increases throughout the state. Being part of an effort that has brought relief to farmers and landowners was a great tangible victory for the agriculture community and something I’m very proud to have been a small part of.

What advice would you give to a current student?
There are tremendous opportunities to students of Ohio State. Take time to explore your interests and try something new. There are few points in your life where you will have the resources and opportunities to be uninhibited in your adventures. From rock climbing, to ballroom dancing, to everything in between, there is something for everyone at Ohio State. Think outside the box and get involved!

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
ACEL helped me cultivate a continued connection to Ohio State, and the feeling that I had made a life-long investment during my four years of undergraduate studies.

 

Alumni Spotlight: Kendall Glasser ’17

 

Kendall Glasser graduated with a bachelor of science degree in 2017. She majored in community leadership with a minor in nonprofit studies. Glasser now works as a referral intake coordinator for Make-A-Wish: Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

[ACEL]: Hi Kendall! Share with us why you selected to major in community leadership.
[Glasser]: I selected community leadership based on what I felt was important in my past experiences and what I wanted to focus on in my future. Looking at the strong communities and the leaders that has shaped and influenced me. Like many students, my first year at Ohio State I felt lost in what I wanted to study, but finding community leadership seemed like a perfect fit. I like to tell people it felt more like studying myself and the important tools and skills in order to put good into the world.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
I grew up in a suburb about 10 minutes away from campus, so Ohio State has always been pretty prominent in my life. However, when it was time decide on college, it was the endless opportunities that drew me to OSU. I knew I would grow personally, professionally and academically, all while being apart of a strong and supportive community.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
Looking back on my education at Ohio State, I would say the aspect of giving back and the idea of being apart of something bigger than yourself influenced my current career choices. Working for a large nonprofit organization, such as Make-A-Wish, has always been a major goal of mine and I would credit my time at Ohio State and ACEL for giving me the confidence and skills for reaching that goal right out of college.

Did you have any classes that you took that stand out more than others?
It’s hard to choose a favorite class at Ohio State because I felt so lucky to have a diverse list to choose from. However, I would say I really appreciated the classes for ACEL.  They felt very self-reflective but at the same time group oriented and community-based which I thought was a refreshing balance compared to your average lecture.

Did a specific professor or faculty member have an influence on your time at Ohio State?
The first person that comes to mind is Dr. King.  He was the first of many professors at Ohio State that I felt I really related to.  He never made me feel like I was wrong and really got me interested in ethics and leadership within teams and groups, which are subjects I find really important and want to focus on in my current and future careers.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
Overall, I think it’s the people and pride that make Ohio State the place that it is.  The traditions that are created and continued for years make students feel like they are apart of something special.  I would bet a lot of alumni out there that would love to go back to their campus apartment or house with their roommates if they could, and I’m one of them.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
Working for Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana as a referral intake coordinator!

While you were a student, you also worked to help advance your career. What were those positions?
I worked as a youth program coordinator for First Community Church and for a small nonprofit called the Tri-Village Mentor League.  I also spent majority of my time working as a program team member and then program director for Camp Akita.  I am proud that I was able to work full-time and be a full-time student throughout my college career.

How are you involved in your community outside of your career?
Although I am working fulltime for Make-A-Wish, I am still involved in my previous jobs.  I am on the council for Camp Akita and volunteer once a week for First Community Church Youth Program.

What advice would you give to a current student?
I would tell them to consider themselves and the person they want to be in everything they do.  Try new things, talk to new people, go out of your comfort zone but although cliché, remember what is important to you.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
I think ACEL gave me the confidence and independence to be where I am today and hope to be in the future.  ACEL helped me think in ways I’ve never thought before and to see in a new perspective which I think will guide me well.