Academic year winds down

Hello there!!
Hope everything is going well. Today is April 12, and after several inches of snow a few days back, it seems like we are now close to spring!! Is it too early to say this? Many people have already told me, "Please wait, do not get too excited; the weather can change in a heartbeat."
It has been two years since we restarted the departmental newsletter, which provides you with information about what is going on in the department and introduces you to some of our great students, staff and faculty. We are approaching graduation, which is very exciting for everyone in the department. We certainly look forward to joining our graduates at this special time. Congratulations to all graduates and their families, teachers and advisors.

In this issue, we highlight the Animal Nutrition and Physiology Center (ANPC). It is one of our prime research centers, where our faculty, students and staff apply their knowledge and experience toward scientific success, solving issues and improving the livelihoods of animals and humans. Check out the great information about the ANPC.

This year, we commemorated the 100th Little I! What a fantastic time we had, with many alumni joining the event, sparking many conversations and memories. Taiton Axtman reflects on this event in his article.

As Jacob Klaudt indicates, March was an active and productive month for the NDSU Livestock Judging Team, highlighted by extensive travel and strong competitive experiences across Texas. Numerous industry stops enhanced learning, including visits to ranches, feedlots, universities and companies. Beyond competitions, efforts focused on outreach and recruitment. Activities included supporting state 4-H and FFA contests, connecting with alumni, securing livestock for training, publishing articles, and engaging with youth groups. Recruitment efforts yielded a new commitment and additional prospective student meetings.

The 2025–2026 NDSU Equestrian Team is made up of 40 student-athletes representing nine states and Canada, spanning 18 academic majors across campus. This talented and dedicated group delivered an outstanding season, dominating the region in overall points. The team earned both the Zone 7 Region 3 High Point Hunt Seat Team and High Point Western Team titles, while senior Hannah Strong was named the region’s High Point Western Rider. Twenty-one riders advanced to postseason competition in late March. Eleven western riders competed in the semifinals at Murray State University in Murray, Ky., while 10 hunt seat riders qualified for the semifinals at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. Across both disciplines, NDSU riders represented the university with excellence against strong national competition. Their success does not stop there: Two NDSU riders will continue their postseason journey at the IHSA National Championships in Mill Spring, N.C., in early May. Sophomore Josie Schieno of Dickinson, N.D., will compete in Beginner Horsemanship, and Hannah Strong of Rolette, N.D., will compete in the High Point Western Rider division, riding in both horsemanship and reining phases. Best of luck!!! Enjoy the rest of the spring and have a wonderful summer. See you around.

Best regards,
Guillermo