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Student Research Featured at ACS Spring Meeting in Atlanta

A WT student recently presented research at the American Chemical Society (ACS) Spring Meeting, held March 22-26 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Emma Doucette, a software engineering student and undergraduate researcher in Dr. Roy's group, presented a poster title "Elucidating the Mechanism of Photochromic Dyes in Harvesting Solar Energy: A Destiny Functional Theory and Machine Learning Approach." Her work is supported by a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, where she contributes as part of an undergraduate research team.

The ACS Spring Meeting bring together chemists and interdisciplinary researchers from around the world, offering opportunities for collaboration, networking and the exchange of ideas across a wide range of scientific fields.

For Doucette, the experience marked her first time presenting at a national conference.

"Presenting my research at the American Chemical Society National Meeting in Atlanta was a really exciting experience for me," she said. "It was the first time I had presented my work at a large national conference, so it was a little intimidating at first. However, it turned out to be a great opportunity to talk with other researchers about my project."

Doucette noted that engaging with other researchers helped her view her work from new perspectives.

"Explaining my research to different people helped me think about it in new ways, and I got some interesting questions and feedback that made me consider ideas I hadn't thought about before," she said. "Overall, the experience helped me feel more confident in my work and made me even more interested in continuing research in the future."

Doucette will graduate this May, and her participation highlights the role of undergraduate research in preparing students for future careers in science and technology.

WT Rodeo Hosts Successful "Let 'Er Buff" Weekend in Hereford

The West Texas A&M Rodeo Team hosted the "Let 'Er Buff" College Rodeo April 16-18 in Hereford, marking the program's first home rodeo since 2018.

The weekend featured a full slate of activities, including vendor shopping, food trucks, concessions and a specialty Hide Race competition during nightly performances. A college steer roping event on Friday and strong attendance throughout the weekend added to the success of the event.

WT competitors delivered solid performances across multiple events.

Team Results:

Champion Team Roping (Heeling) - John Hisel

Reserve Champion Steer Wrestling - Clayton Veldhuizen

4th Barrel Racing Average - Tori Huddleston

6th Barrel Racing Average - Sage Gaillard

6th Bareback Riding Average - Cash Robertson

9th Bareback Riding Average - Jake Herndon

7th Tie-Down Roping Average - Weston Peters

8th Tie-Down Roping Average - Heath Harkins

8th Team Roping Average - Abby McCreary (Header) and Kaiden Stricklen (Heeler)

Event winners were awarded buckles, while the All-Around Cowboy and Cowgirl received custom engraved guitars. The top men's and women's teams were also recognized with large custom buckles.

The rodeo also highlighted the program's legacy with the announcement of the 2026 WT Rodeo Hall of Fame class.

Alumni Category:

Mike Reid Settle - National Cowgirl Hall of Famer and three-time national champion in barrel racing (1959-1961)

Faculty/Staff Category:

Dr. Kelvin Sharp - Former rodeo coach and longtime faculty member

Dr. Dean Hawkins - Former department head and dean who supported the rodeo program

Supporter Category:

Dr. Johnny Trotter - Longtime supporter and contributor to the WT Rodeo Team

Mike Kuhlman - Founder of the Three Star Memorial supporting rodeo scholarships

The WT Rodeo Team will conclude the season with its End of Year Banquet on May 2 at the Piehl-Schaeffer Pavillion, where graduating seniors and team members will be recognized during an evening of celebration.

WT Students Represent Collegiate Farm Bureau at YF&R Spring Conference

West Texas A&M University students made a strong showing at the Young Farmers and Ranchers Spring Conference in Waco, representing the Collegiate Farm Bureau through both participation and competition.

A total of 14 WT students attended the conference, with nine competing in the Collegiate Discussion Meet, a contest designed to strengthen communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills through discussion of key agricultural issues.

Among those competing, Jett Long advanced to the final round of competition, earning recognition as one of the top participants.

Additional WT students who competed included:

Allison Dieringer

Brazier Joy

Brody White

Delaney Draegert

Ethan Rushing

Josie Thomas

Keller Metzker

Montana Goodman

The conference provided valuable opportunities for students to learn, build connections and engage with others focused on the future of agriculture.

The strong participation from WT students highlights continued involvement in experiences that prepare them for leadership roles within the agricultural industry.

Record Number of WT Students Earn AMSA Undergraduate Scholastic Achievement Award

West Texas A&M University students have achieved a program milestone, with three students selected as recipients of the American Meat Science Association Undergraduate Scholastic Achievement Award, the most ever for WT.

Clayton Stevenson, Ryan Stricker and Spencer Walahoski were recognized for their excellence in the classroom and strong interest in meat science and the meat industry.

The AMSA Undergraduate Scholastic Achievement Award honors students who demonstrate academic success and a commitment to advancing the meat science field.

This recognition highlights the strength of WT's programs in animal science and meat science, as well as the dedication of students preparing to make an impact in the industry.

Celebrating Thunder: Sally Turns One, Doc Turns Two

It's a time of celebration for two of West Texas A&M University's most recognizable ambassadors.

Thunder XVI, "Sally," recently celebrated her first birthday, marking a full year of growth as she steps into her role. Over the past year, her spunky personality has made her a favorite at events and across campus.

Thunder XV, "Doc," turned two, celebrating another year of representing WT and the traditions that continue to grow stronger with each generation of Thunder.

Behind the scenes, the Herdsmen play an essential role in making these milestones possible. They are responsible for the safety, care and management of Thunder, while also serving as ambassadors who share the values and heritage the program brings to the WTAMU community.

Together, these birthdays highlight the ongoing legacy of the program and the traditions that connect students, alumni and the community.

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