The word ‘sustainability’ can mean different things to different people. In agriculture, sustainability has taken center stage when it comes to how farmers and ranchers plan to ensure the future of their livelihoods. Commodity organizations are increasingly tasked with understanding how the crops they represent can fit into the sustainability conversation.

In 2020, following Covid-19, Scott Burris, Ph.D., chair for the Department of Agricultural Education and Communications, and his team implemented three value statements that would go on to shape the department into what it is now. The values served as a road map for navigating the unusual and trying time that they would soon face. Go Beyond, Invest in Others, and Create a Collaborative Culture are demonstrated daily amongst the students and faculty.

More Than a Show

Dedication is the word that commonly describes the Texas Tech Ranch Horse Team.

Brashears is excited to bring her experiences she gained in Washington D.C., back to her career at Texas Tech and incorporate those skills into her everyday roles as a faculty member. From teaching students, to leading several research projects, she will now be able to add a new dimension to the work that she is currently doing.

“I mean, it’s those kinds of things that are the cool moments, the cool memories,” Doerfert said. “It’s not the awards. It’s those moments when I see someone successful because maybe I had a little bit to do with it. That’s my reward. That’s the thing that make me happy.” – David Doerfert