Meat science students make history
Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences becomes first with four students honored by American Meat Science Association
Receiving American Meat Science Association, AMSA, Undergraduate Scholastic Achievement Awards represents one of the most prestigious recognitions in the field of meat science.
This year, four Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences students received the award, making it the first time in AMSA’s history four honorees were recognized from a single college.
The award honors the academic and extracurricular achievements of undergraduate students and provides a platform for emerging leaders to engage with the meat science community at the Reciprocal Meat Conference, RMC.
“No university has ever had four awardees in a single year,” said Davey Griffin, Ph.D., professor and extension meat specialist in the Department of Animal Science. “It speaks volumes about the quality of students in the program and the robust support system provided by the faculty. This achievement not only highlights the individual excellence of the students but also enhances the reputation of the department and the College.”
Spotlight on the awardees
This year’s achievement by Department of Animal Science students underscores the College’s commitment to excellence in meat science education.
AMSA members evaluated students for their academic excellence and engagement in various meat science-related activities, including participation in meat judging competitions, involvement in quiz bowls, internships, leadership roles within AMSA and contributions to their respective universities.
Griffin shared insights into the accomplishments of these exceptional students:
– Nathan Barrett: A dedicated student with a background in 4-H, Barrett has been actively involved in the meat science program and meat judging team at Texas A&M. He is set to begin a master’s program under Chris Kerth, Ph.D., associate professor of meat science and muscle biology in the Department of Animal Science, focusing on research in meat science.
– Bailey Lamb: Lamb has contributed significantly to the meat science community, both as a member of the national champion meat judging team and through her work with Jeffrey W. Savell, Ph.D., vice chancellor and dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Kerri Gehring, Ph.D., professor in the meat science section of the Department of Animal Science. She is poised to coach the wool judging team at West Texas A&M University.
– Kadie Graves: Hailing from Lubbock, Graves discovered her passion for meat science during her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M. Despite having no prior experience, she excelled in the program and has participated in multiple internships, contributing to various research and practical projects.
– Gage Walsh: Known for his leadership in meat judging, Walsh has been involved in the program since high school. He is currently interning at Tyson Foods and will pursue a master’s degree under Wes Osburn, Ph.D., associate professor in the meat science section of the Department of Animal Science.
“The AMSA Undergraduate Scholastic Achievement Awards have significantly contributed to acknowledging the academic and professional excellence of undergraduate students in meat science, fostering a tradition of outstanding achievement,” Griffin said. “It is particularly gratifying to see Texas A&M students being honored, as it underscores the dedication and hard work of our students, faculty and the entire department.”
