Texas A&M Animal Science Howdy Event welcomes students back to campus

Building connections at Pearce Pavillion

The Texas A&M University Department of Animal Science opened the fall semester with its annual Howdy Event on Sept. 2 at the Louis Pearce Pavilion. More than 375 current and new students attended the event, eager to connect with faculty, staff and peers. The gathering created a space for students to explore involvement opportunities while building relationships that will carry them through their college career. The pavilion buzzed with energy as students introduced themselves to many faculty members including Clay Mathis, Ph.D., head of the Department of Animal Science, Chris Skaggs, Ph.D., associate dean for student development, and Shawn Ramsey, Ph.D., assistant head for undergraduate programs. Volleyball and cornhole added to the welcoming atmosphere, while students picked up animal science merchandise and shared in the excitement of a new semester.

Opportunities and tradition

Students also explored informational booths on ways to get involved in the department. Competitive teams, animal science clubs and program representatives welcomed new students, shared upcoming activities and encouraged students to get connected. A highlight of the evening was the sausage wraps, made possible through a donation of 400 links of sausage from Slovacek’s Sausage. The collaboration highlighted the department’s strong industry ties and the teamwork that made the event possible. By the end of the afternoon, students left with new connections, full calendars and a sense of belonging. The Howdy Event set the tone for a year of learning, leadership and Aggie tradition.