Bright Spots

Greetings in 2013,

While life has its share of challenges for those of us who are entrusted as stewards of our education, research, and outreach enterprises, there is seldom a day when there’s not at least one bright spot and, sometimes, many that come to my attention. In introducing this first issue of The Source for the new year, I have the privilege sharing with you a wealth of those “bright spots.”

Some articles in this issue answer the question “What’s new?” One recounts the story National Public Radio told about our new OSU cheese, Beaver Classic. Another tells of our partnership in providing renewable energy to the campus with the establishment of a large array of solar panels on land managed by our College. And there’s always excitement in announcing new educator-scientists joining our faculty—and this issue introduces you to four of them. They bring expertise in turf management, potato breeding, entomology, and dairy.

A special section offers multiple perspectives on our Agricultural Executive Council and the students who make it up. These dedicated and hard-working student leaders are keys to communication and collaboration among the members of the many clubs and organizations that offer co-curricular learning and leadership training through interest-based experience. This year’s “Ag Exec” team has brought student participation and activities to a level unparalleled in the recent past. Read about them and share the excitement!

While our students, faculty, staff, and alumni are known for their dedication, accomplishments, and contributions to society, it is also interesting to recognize and have a generational perspective of what they have achieved. For example, alumnus Denver Pugh of Shedd is the fourth generation in his family to graduate from the College of Agricultural Sciences and the sixth generation to run the family farm. He is an active leader in the grass seed industry and also serves on the board of directors of E. R. Jackman Friends and Alumni.

Because there’s so much going on in our College of Agricultural Sciences, it means The Source never comprises only a few items. I encourage you first to browse the contents—scroll all the way to the bottom. Then come back and click on links of special interest to you. They expand each of the stories, often with photographs and videos as well.

Thank you for your continuing interest in and support of the College of Agricultural Sciences, the Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station, and the OSU Extension Service.

Best wishes for the new year!

Dan

Dan J. Arp
Reub Long Professor and Dean
College of Agricultural Sciences
Director, Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station