Study Abroad Trip Takes Students to South Africa

16 students from across campus, 10 of which were from the Department of Agricultural Sciences, traveled to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa from Sept. 20 to Oct. 3.

Assistant Dean of Academic Programs, Dr. Brock Blaser, and Associate Professor of Media Communication, Dr. Enyonam Osei-Hwere, organized and led the sixteen students who went on this trip.

The students volunteered at local schools, bringing children books and building a garden at one of the schools. The school children worked with students to build multiple raised beds in the garden, including installing an irrigation system and planting multiple vegetables for the school to use in their lunch program. After the garden was completed, the WTAMU group went on a safari, toured Cape Town, and visited Stellenbosch University to learn about their agriculture programs.

"We had a tremendous experience in South Africa," said Dr. Blaser. "Amazing students, mixed with amazing people and a beautiful country. It was thrilling to watch the impact of that visit, from building the garden and giving out books to the kids to the beautiful landscapes and wildlife. As many students said, “it was life-changing” in so many ways."

Buffs Compete at APHA's 2025 HorseIQ Judging Contest

The WT Horse Judging Team traveled to Fort Worth to compete at the 2025 American Paint Horse Association horseIQ Youth & Collegiate Judging Contest on Sept. 24.

“We had a solid start to the season at the APHA horseIQ Judging Contest," said Dr. Dr. Christy Petry-Adams, Horse Judging Team Head Coach. "I’m proud of how the team performed and excited for our next stop. This group is working hard and staying focused on improving each week.”

Team Results

Halter - 2^nd

Reasons - 3^rd

^{Overall - 4th}

Performance - 5^th

Individual Results

Halter:

Kurtlee Smith – 4^th

Bella Bridges – 6^th

Abigail Wiles – 9^th

Performance:

Bella Bridges – 5^th

Abigail Wiles – 12^th

Reasons:

Bella Bridges – 4^th

Madilynn Campbell – 7^th

Kurtlee Smith – 10^th

Overall:

Bella Bridges – 3^rd

Kurtlee Smith – 9^th

Abigail Wiles – 11^th

Professor Travels Internationally as Keynote Speaker

Assistant Professor in Physics, Dr. Keshav Shrestha, was an invited speaker at the International Conference on Emerging Trends in Advanced Materials.

The conference was held on Oct. 7-8 and was organized by the Department of Physics at the Pachhunga University College, located in Mizoram, India.

This conference brings together a wide variety of researchers and industry leaders to discuss the latest achievements in their disciplines.

Some topics covered at this year's conference included advanced functional materials, 2D materials and

heterostructures, magnetic materials and energy storage.

Student Named Junior Ambassador Scholarship Recipient

Congratulations to Riley Jo Mertz who was named a 2025 Ag Women Connect Junior Ambassador Scholarship Recipient by Ag Women Connect.

Mertz is a senior Plant, Soil and Environmental Science major. She serves as Vice President of the Agronomy Club and competes on the Crops Judging Team.

"I found not only my calling in agriculture but also passion for advocacy and serving others." said Mertz. "This award means the world to me because thankfully I have found my home in agriculture. This industry has shaped me into the person I am, and I am so grateful that I now have the platform and ability to serve others."

As an Ambassador, Mertz will have the opportunity to educate and provide resources in and outside the agricultural industry.

Equestrian Team Achieves High Point Team at Show

The WTAMU Equestrian team, Hunt Seat division, traveled to Norman, OK to compete at the first show of the season from Oct 4-5, held at the University of Oklahoma.

The Equestrian team, started the season off well with being named High Point Team both days of the show.

WT had many achievements at this show, including numerous individual wins and qualifications.

Two riders secured their regional championship qualification: Catherine Borchardt and Hannah Minton.

Individual Results

Open Fences:

Ashley Vaught- 1^st

Limit Fences:

Ashley Vaught- 1^st

Catherine Borchardt- 1^st

Lexi Woestman- 1^st

Sabrina Welch- 1^st

Limit Flat: