Ferguson College of Agriculture

Dr. Manjit Misra, director of the USDA Institute of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Dan Stein, animal and food sciences associate professor, and Dr. Cynda Clary, associate dean for the Ferguson College of Agriculture. (Photo courtesy of Wendy Fink, APLU)

 

The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities and the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently honored public university faculty with national teaching awards, recognizing excellence in agricultural sciences teaching and student engagement. Dan Stein, associate professor in the Oklahoma State University Department of Animal and Food Sciences, was named a recipient in the national teaching and student engagement category.

 

The award, which celebrates university faculty for their quality of teaching, service to students, the teaching profession, and scholarship of teaching and learning, was presented at the 136th APLU Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington.

 

Stein joined the department of animal and food sciences faculty in 2009. His understanding of research and years of ranching and livestock experience give him a unique perspective on production agriculture. His passion for making a difference in the lives of young people has also helped him engage with students. Scenarios presented in the classroom are often based on actual events and situations from his ranch and help students gain a practical understanding of the subject matter.

 

“Working with students and seeing them take hold of their success is what drives me each day,” Stein said. “I couldn’t teach at a better place than Oklahoma State University.”

 

Over the years, Stein has instructed more than 8,200 students, served on 39 graduate committees, mentored 10 undergraduate research scholars and honors students, and advised 75 to 100 undergraduates each semester. In addition to his teaching duties, Stein’s “Partners of the Prairie” historical animal-agriculture exhibit, which showcases his team of oxen, allows him to advocate for the agricultural past, present and future. His efforts have been recognized by OSU, the state of Oklahoma and the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture.

 

“It’s hard to put into words how honored I am to be recognized with this award,” Stein said. “This confirms I am doing what I was called to do – making a difference in students’ lives.”