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Planning

Our current strategic plan’s goal is to provide a transformative student experience. I wonder if we’ve been bold enough in approaching that goal, or if we have been constrained by our current structure.

A snowy scene with the sun shining through tall trees.

Student successes

Congratulations to the 66 undergraduates, 12 master’s students, and 18 doctoral students from CAHNRS who were recognized at Saturday’s commencement ceremony! We will miss all our graduates and wish each of you much success in your next steps!

Two people stand, dressed in graduation caps and gowns, holding a diploma folder. Behind them are a few other people dressed similarly, as well as a large crowd sitting in the stands.

Back from abroad

During my University of Nairobi visit, common themes related to climate change and food security, data-informed decision tools, and genetic advances in animal and plant agriculture surfaced. There is a lot to think about.

Two people stand next to a table with plastic bottles and plastic containers containing food items. One person holds a notebook. Behind the table is a sign with text "Strengthening African Food Processors (SAP) to reduce food losses. Supported by the Rockefeller Foundation" with the Rockefeller logo. At the bottom of the sign is the University of Nairobi logo and the text "University of Nairobi" and the text "Purdue University."

Gratitude

I hope everyone had a great long weekend and took pleasure in turkey trots, turkey dinners, and time with loved ones! There is so much for which to be grateful.

Two zebras stand together in a field. The skyline of Nairobi is in the background.

Setting CAHNRS apart

I was in Seattle the first part of this week attending the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities annual meeting. WSU was well represented by our government relations, foundation, and leadership teams.

A group of people stand, listening to a person speaking, in a field.

Changing the student experience

Washington, D.C., was much colder than I expected. I think I missed the best day of the APLU Advocacy Meeting: an invite-only session where the afternoon was spent “backcasting” a scenario in which federal agriculture research support and federal Extension support increased substantially.

View of the lake with the Washington Monument in the background. Trees in vibrant fall orange and yellow hues line the lake.

Lots to think about

Thanks to the CAHNRS personnel who took the time to meet with me and the leadership team. I enjoyed the conversations. I do not often get to interact with support personnel from around the state, so that was special.

Photo looking through green leafy trees with a little bit of snow on the leaves. On the grass are leaves. In the background is a walkway with lights and bushes, and a brick building.

On the road again

We are winding down the road show. I hope everyone found it worthy of their time to participate. I enjoyed the networking events; they were a great way to see local supporters and partners.

A group of several speakers sits near a long table. Others face them, listening. Behind the speakers is a staircase, a music speaker, and a round sign that has the WSU logo and says "Washington State University."

Breaking down impact

I hope everyone cheered loudly for Holly Henning, who was recognized on the field during Saturday’s homecoming game as a featured WSU faculty member for her contributions to the university. Congratulations, Holly! Congratulations to Laura Griner Hill, Louise Parker, Brittany Cooper, Elizabeth Weybright, Jennifer Duckworth, and Gitanjali Shrestha, recipients of the 2023 WSU Teams that […]

A woman stands, holdig her hands out. Two sit, looking on, behind her.

Super fans

During the AgForestry Leadership reception last week, we were asked to share our favorite thing about fall. I don’t recall anyone mentioning Halloween, but a few people mentioned football. For my brother, it’s both.

Two rows of four recliners per row, each with various quilts on them. On some of the recliners sit skeletons dressed in Notre Dame gear. Above the chairs are ceiling fans, and next to the chairs is a bar. On the ground are two skeleton dogs. On the wall behind the chairs there is a banner that says "You're in Steelers country." In front of the recliners is a rug that's designed to look like a football field.