August 2025

The fall semester is off to a strong start at Oklahoma State University, with its second consecutive year of record enrollment. The university also has set a new benchmark for freshman enrollment for the fourth straight year, welcoming nearly 5,200 first-year students to the Cowboy family.

The Ferguson College of Agriculture has also hit a record high. We’ve long been aiming for 3,000 undergraduate students, and we exceeded that goal for the first time in our history. This growth is a testament to the strength of our academic programs, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the passion of our students.

Our land-grant mission is also alive and well beyond the classroom. OSU Extension remains a vital resource for communities across Oklahoma. Likewise, OSU Ag Research continues to push the boundaries of knowledge.

As we step into a new academic year, I’m excited for what lies ahead and grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside so many talented and committed individuals.

Warm Regards,

Jayson Lusk

Vice President and Dean

OSU Agriculture

Dr. Lusk's Lens

Dr. Jayson Lusk and Pistol Pete pose for a picture.

Ferguson Family

Dr. Lusk and Pistol Pete celebrate the return of students for the fall semester during the Ferguson Family Block Party and College Welcome.

Mission Focus

OSU Agriculture is comprised of the Ferguson College of Agriculture and two state agencies: OSU Ag Research and OSU Extension. Learn the latest from our three mission areas.

John Michael Riley receives his award with Cynda Clary and Jayson Lusk.

Teaching

John Michael Riley receives the Ferguson College of Agriculture’s Excellence in Undergraduate Advising and Mentoring Award.

Research

Oklahoma Foundation Seed Stocks, a bridge between plant breeders and certified seed growers, is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

Extension

Youth from around the state attended State 4-H Roundup in July to engage in educational workshops, competitions and activities.

Shaping Tomorrow Today, The Future is Now

Students working with plant and soil science equipment.

Deliver Transformative and Experiential Opportunities On and Off Campus

OSU Agriculture provides transformative and experiential educational opportunities on campus and beyond. Ferguson College of Agriculture students are being exposed to innovative curricula, high-quality facilities, focused experiential learning opportunities and purposeful mentorship relationships that build and strengthen the holistic competencies of the OSU Ideal Graduate. In addition, positive youth leadership and 4-H Youth Development programs play a crucial role in propelling the next generation of leaders by engaging young people in agricultural science, STEM education, leadership, civic engagement and community service.

To serve these multiple types of learners, OSU Agriculture will continually adapt programs to meet evolving needs and the public’s preferred modes of learning, ensuring that all participants receive relevant and impactful education.

Campus Pulse

Freshmen in Transition students move into their dorm.

Students play balloon toss during the Ferguson Family Block Party.

Dr. Cynda Clary addresses students during College Welcome.

Ferguson College of Agriculture students pose during their first day of school.

Welcome, Students!

Excitement filled the air as Ferguson College of Agriculture students moved into the Freshman in Transition Living Learning Program residential hall, participated in the Ferguson Family Block Party and College Welcome, and attended the first day of classes.

Bright Horizons

Secretary Blayne Arthur with guests at the OSU Student Farm.

The Student Farm

OSU Agriculture welcomed Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur and guests to the OSU Student Farm, a collaborative effort between the division and Our Daily Bread Food and Resource Center. Their visit highlighted the work students, faculty and staff are doing to advance sustainable agriculture and hands-on learning.

Hands that Help

Maggie Evans and her parents with her Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame award.

Bridger Arrington and his parents with his Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame award.

4-H Hall of Fame Award Recipients

Maggie Evans from Grady County and Bridger Arrington from Logan County were inducted into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame at the 104th Oklahoma 4-H Roundup.

Voices from the Field

Mark Turner shares practical tips about native weeds as forage for wildlife.

“SUNUP” - Surprising Benefits of Native Weeds

Mark Turner, OSU Extension wildlife specialist, shares practical tips on how native weeds can serve as valuable forage for wildlife. Discover which plants benefit deer, birds and other species, and learn how managing weeds the right way can improve habitat and food options on your land.