During the 2024 Texas FFA State Convention, two Department of Animal Science faculty members were presented with prestigious awards. The department was also represented in the trade show where Animal Science Ambassadors met with prospective students.

Davey Griffin, Ph.D., and Chris Skaggs, Ph.D., were recipients of the Texas FFA Distinguished Service Award and were presented the award during the 2024 Texas FFA State Convention held in Houston. The Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals, business groups, or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to FFA and agricultural education.

Through numerous Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service programs and hosting the state FFA meat judging contest, Griffin has impacted thousands of youth with his wealth of knowledge and passion for meat science. Skaggs has equally made a positive impact on countless students as a professor, mentor and much more in his various roles including associate dean for student development and associate vice chancellor for producer relations in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He is always ready and willing to share his passion for the college, department, Texas A&M AgriLife and Texas A&M University.

In addition, four undergraduate students who serve as Animal Science Ambassadors attended the state convention to meet with prospective students. They were able to talk with FFA members about the diverse and complex animal science curriculum and the endless opportunities for high-impact learning beyond the classroom. Donna Witt, program director of academics, was also in attendance to offer her wealth of knowledge to prospective students and their families.