Cultivating excellence
College of Agriculture and Life Science Student Council named Adair Student Organization of the Year
With over 1,300 student organizations at Texas A&M University, Aggies campus-wide dedicate hundreds of hours to volunteering, event planning and gaining what’s fondly termed as the “other education” — those invaluable hands-on experiences beyond the classroom.
Among these, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Student Council, or C.O.A.L.S. Council, stood out, earning the 2024 Adair Student Organization of the Year award in the partnered category.
The Adair Student Organization of the Year award, presented by the Division of Student Affairs’ Student Activities, recognizes five student organizations each year that have demonstrated innovation, impact, Aggie spirit and a dedication to serving the greater good.
“I’m immensely proud of the council for exceeding expectations this year,” remarked Miles Huffines ’24, president of the council. “This recognition speaks volumes about our members’ dedication and ongoing commitment to nurturing a close-knit, exceptional community within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.”
Gold standards and dedication
The C.O.A.L.S. Council spent the past year serving the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, AGLS, in various ways. Acting as the primary bridge between students and College leadership, they organized service events, enhanced the AGLS Career Fair, orchestrated social gatherings and more. Notably, they extended the AGLS Career Fair to a two-day affair, resulting in a 33% increase in company participation and nearly doubling student attendance, benefiting both recruiters and aspiring professionals.
The C.O.A.L.S. Council rebranded the traditional ice cream social into “Rise and Shine with AGLS,” collaborating with Jeffrey W. Savell, Ph.D., vice chancellor and dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Abbey Whipple, events coordinator for the College. This revamped event engaged 25 student organizations, clubs and services, boosting visibility and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for students to explore new opportunities.
Beyond these key events, the C.O.A.L.S. Council left an indelible mark through community outreach, student development and philanthropy. Their initiatives ranged from providing support during finals with the Finals Week Coffee Bar to orchestrating a successful AGLS Giving Day, which raised over $33,000 for student development and student success through a strategic social media campaign. They also spearheaded the Student Leadership Celebration and 4-H Day in Aggieland.
Their commitment to community service shined through various initiatives such as the Back-to-School Supply Drive, Canned Food Drive, Salvation Army High School Tutoring Program, AGLS Fall Festival, Valentine’s Day cards for Senior Citizens and Aggieland Saturday. Furthermore, over 50 council members participated in The Big Event, exemplifying their dedication to giving back.
Mentorship, community for future leaders
To cultivate future leaders, the C.O.A.L.S. Council collaborated with the Dean’s Office to establish C.O.A.L.S. F.X., a freshman leadership program promoting social interaction, professional development and service. The program, led by seasoned members, fosters mentorship, personal growth for freshmen, and leadership opportunities for upperclassmen. Additionally, the council utilized department representatives to educate members about departmental intricacies, promoting practical leadership.
Prioritizing inclusivity and social interaction, the C.O.A.L.S. Council fosters a vibrant community within the College through events like a domino tournament and departmental presentations from council members at meetings, encouraging community within the College.
About the C.O.A.L.S. Council
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Student Council is a professional organization that serves as the liaison between students, faculty and the dean in the College. They represent the nearly 8,000 students within the College through service activities, networking opportunities, professional development and opportunities for funding through scholarships and grants. There are approximately 70 members who serve on C.O.A.L.S. Council and represent the 15 departments in the College.
2023 – 2024 C.O.A.L.S. Council officers:
Miles Huffines ’24, president.
Cooper Ford ’25, vice president of finance.
Anna Hiser ’25, vice president of public relations.
Brittley Bowers ’25, vice president of leadership.
Caden Carver ’25, vice president of programs.
Zachary Hoelscher ’25, vice president of service.
2024 – 2025 C.O.A.L.S. Council officers:
Brittley Bowers ’25, president.
Tanner Owen ’26, vice president of finance.
Zoee Nolen ’26, vice president of public relations.
Riki Nardiello ’26, vice president of leadership.
Jace Owen ’25, vice president of programs.
Greyson Castillo ’26, vice president of service.
Austin Blagg ’26, vice president of mentorship.
