Lead From Within!

Student Conducts Research at National High Magnetic Field Laboratory

Tucker Beekmann, a chemistry and physics student, recently visited the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee, where he conducted advanced research on the electronic properties of quantum materials.

During his visit, Beekmann performed experiments under high magnetic field conditions, allowing him to explore how quantum materials behave at a fundamental level. This research contributed to a growing body of knowledge with potential applications in emerging technologies.

"Going to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee was a huge opportunity and a wonderful experience. I was able to get firsthand experience in experimental science using the equipment there and worked with the support scientists there," said Beekman. "I also had the privilege to use the world's largest magnet for our research. I of course also got to go to sunny Floridia for the first time. All in all, it was a truly great experience and will help me in my goal to earn a PhD in experimental physics."

His work is supported by the WTAMU President's Undergraduate Student Research Grant Program, which provides grants of up to $3,500 to support students conducting independent research projects under the guidance of a faculty sponsor.

Beekmann's experience highlights the strength of undergraduate research at WT and the opportunities available for students to engage in high-impact work beyond the classroom.

WT Equestrian Western Team Advances to Nationals with Strong Semifinal Performance

The WT Equestrian western team delivered an outstanding performance at semifinals in New Mexico this weekend, earning High Point Team honors with a first-place finish and securing a spot at the national championships.

The team's success was highlighted by strong rides across multiple events, with several riders earning top individual's honors.

Hight Point Team Riders:

Helene Keiser - 1st Place Reining and Open Horsemanship

Marina Carroll - 1st Place Ranch Riding

Kaylen Langhofer - 1st Place Beginner Horsemanship

Other Team Riders: Charlie Wells; Ashlynn Albaugh; Violet Hodgson

High Point Rider:

Peyton Podmolik - 1st in both Horsemanship and Reining Phases

Individual Class Winners:

Helene Keiser - Reigning Champion

Kaitlyn Evans - Open Horsemanship Champion

Charli Wells - Level 1 Horsemanship Champion

Ashlynn Albaugh - Rookie Horsemanship Champion

Caoimhe Benn-Rothstein - Level 2 Horsemanship Reserve Champion

With multiple championship performances and a team title, WT Equestrian now looks ahead to nationals, where its riders will compete on a national stage.

The strong showing reflects the talent, preparation and dedication of the WT Equestrian program as it continues to build momentum this season.

Spring Break Brings Opportunities for Industry Service and Outreach

WT students in agricultural programs spent their spring break giving back to the next generation of industry leaders by supporting multiple competitive events in the region.

To kick off the break, members of the Horse Judging team assisted in officiating the ENMU-R Amigos Invitational Career Development Event Contest in New Mexico, helping facilitate competitions that provide valuable hands-on experience for youth in agriculture.

Later in the week, members of the Meat Judging Team traveled to Texico, New Mexico, where they helped officiate and supplied product for the Wolverine Invitational. Their involvement ensured. the success of the event while offering practical learning opportunities for participating students.

Through their continued engagement in these events, WT students play an important role in supporting agricultural education and strengthening connections across the industry.

FFA Invitational Draws Thousands to Campus for Career and Development Event

WTAMU hosted its FFA Career and Development Event (CDE) Invitational on Friday, March 27, welcoming strong participation from across the region.

The event brought together more than 3,000 students representing Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri and Arkansas. An additional 400 teachers, extension agents and parents were also in attendance, contributing to the success and scale of the invitational.

Participants competed in 21 different contests, including livestock judging, soils judging and milk judging. The annual invitational continues to serve as a key opportunity for FFA members to develop technical skills, engage in competitive events and connect with peers from across multiple states.

WT Ag Sciences Team Conducts Swine Skillathon at Rodeo Austin

The 2026 Swine Skillathon Contest at the Rodeo Austin Livestock Show on March 21 was conducted by participants from the Department of Agriculture Sciences alongside Dr. Lance Kieth.

The skillathon is designed to test students' knowledge of the swine industry, covering areas such as nutrition, genetics, health and meat evaluation. The contest emphasizes practical understanding beyond the show ring and recognizes top participants for their performance.

Through their involvement, WT participants helped deliver a high-quality educational experience while supporting youth development in the livestock industry.

Photo (Left to Right): Andi Howell, Jr. AMCOM; Lyndsey Pancost, St. AGED; McKinley Begert, College Recruiter; Dr. Lance Kieth; Abby Smith, Sr. AGMCOM; Riley Tabor, Jr. AGMCOM; Maddie McAshlin.

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