Events energize summer

Summer Buzz in the Department of Animal Sciences at NDSU

Summer has been an exciting and productive season for the Department of Animal Sciences at North Dakota State University, filled with learning, outreach and professional achievements. Recently, two new faculty members joined the department: Jacob Klaudt and Dr. Justin “Jake” Galbreath. You will learn more about them and their work in this issue. Dr. Christopher Byrd was promoted to Associate Professor with tenure and Dr. Lisa Christenson to Professor of Practice. Both are excellent examples of hard work in their respective positions.

Faculty and students actively participated in the Central Grasslands and Carrington Research and Extension Center annual field days. These events were well attended and offered a great opportunity for our team to share current research and connect with producers, stakeholders and community members.

Meanwhile, several faculty and graduate students represented our department at the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Annual Meeting (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada), at the Reciprocal Meat Conference (Columbus, Ohio) and at the joint American Society of Animal Science–Canadian Society of Animal Science Annual Meeting (Hollywood, Fla.). Their involvement included poster and oral presentations, meetings, and invaluable networking that enhances collaboration and visibility of the department’s work on a national as well as an international stage.

We are also proud to share that NDSU’s Bison Strides program has been reaccredited as a Premier Accredited Center by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.). Congratulations to Dr. Erika Berg, director of the program and an Associate Professor in the department, her staff, students and volunteers.

More great news that we would like to announce is that for this academic year (2025-2026), the department has awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to 89 recipients. Scholarships from alumni and industry are invaluable for students pursuing higher education. These contributions can significantly impact students' academic success and future careers. Thanks to all of you for your constant support.

Looking ahead, we are excited to inform that planning is underway for our annual Moos, Ewes, and More event! This free, family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the NDSU Equine Center on 19th Avenue North. Attendees of all ages can meet the animals of NDSU, talk to the people who care for them, and explore the science behind animal agriculture. Highlights include up-close encounters with baby animals, hands-on learning stations, learning what animals like to eat, and hearing about what veterinarians do each day, plus so much more!

Finally, we are thrilled to share that the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources has launched a new Master of Agriculture degree. This non-thesis program is designed for professionals seeking advancement in agricultural education, leadership, or industry roles. Learn more about the program and its stackable certificates at https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture-masters.

Whether through field days, academic engagement or community events, the Department of Animal Sciences continues to make a meaningful impact this summer and beyond.

See you next time; for now, keep enjoying this weather! Hope all your activities are going as planned.

Best,
Guillermo