Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences

09/03/2026

Planning to study abroad this winter break or spring semester? Funding is available!

The College of Agricultural Sciences Study Abroad Award can help provide financial support toward your international experience.

Students participating in an eligible winter break or full Spring semester study abroad program should apply for funding by September 15.

Ready to apply?
— Complete the Study Abroad Funding Application for your upcoming program.
— Submit your application by September 15 to be considered for an award.
— Review funding information and requirements before applying.

Don’t miss your opportunity to get funding support for your study abroad experience: https://ow.ly/MUoL50ZFJjq

09/02/2026

🌱 Finding new ways to get involved and exploring new connections.

Last Thursday, students came together right outside the Berkey Creamery for this year's College of Ag Sciences Involvement Fair. Penn State offers more than 40 student clubs through the College of Agricultural Sciences.

This annual event highlighted the many ways students can get involved and make the most of their Penn State experience. From discovering new interests to meeting fellow students and finding a community on campus.

A big thank you to all of the student organizations and clubs, faculty, staff, and students who helped make the day a success!

Here’s a look back at a great day of connection and opportunity in Ag Science 🌾

09/01/2026

Could seed banks help save black ash?

The invasive emerald ash borer has decimated black ash trees across North America, but researchers at Penn State are working toward a future where this ecologically and culturally important tree can return to U.S. and Canadian forests.

In a new study published in Annals of Botany, researchers analyzed more than 35,000 black ash seeds from across the species’ geographic range. Using X-ray imaging, machine learning, climate modeling and common garden experiments, they found that black ash populations have substantial genetic diversity, including differences in seed traits, early growth and survival.

That diversity could be critical for future restoration and breeding for emerald ash borer resistance.

Researchers established three common gardens in Pennsylvania, New York and Quebec to better understand how genetics and climate influence black ash growth. The team hopes this work will help identify the right seeds for future reforestation efforts.

“From a conservation perspective, many of the populations represented in these collections are trees that don’t exist on the landscape anymore,” said study senior author Jill Hamilton. “We like to consider this a little bit like the Noah’s Ark for black ash.”

Black ash is more than a forest species. It plays an important role in wetland ecosystems and is deeply connected to the basketry and cultural heritage of Indigenous communities, including Wabanaki, Iroquois and Great Lakes tribes.

The research highlights the importance of preserving genetic diversity—and of collaboration across borders—to give black ash a chance to thrive again. 🌱

🔗 Read more about the research: https://ow.ly/bHVf50ZFigT

08/31/2026

Heading to a Penn State Football home game? 🏈

Make the College of Agricultural Sciences Dean’s Tailgate part of your game-day schedule! Join Dean Troy Ott and his wife, Colleen, at Snider Ag Arena for an opportunity to connect with fellow Penn Staters and friends of agriculture.

The tailgate opens 2.5 hours before kickoff.

🗓️ 2026 Home Game Tailgates
September 5 vs. Marshall — Opens at 1:00 p.m.
September 19 vs. Buffalo
October 10 vs. USC
October 31 vs. Purdue
November 21 vs. Rutgers

Stop by, say hello and connect with alumni, industry partners, agricultural leaders, elected officials and friends of Penn State Agriculture.

We’ll see you at the tailgate!

08/29/2026

From Penn State to Washington, D.C. 🌱

For Darryl Blakey ’15, his Penn State education was about more than earning a degree in Animal Science. It helped prepare him to work hard, collaborate with people from different backgrounds, and find his voice in rooms where important decisions are made.

Today, Darryl serves as Senior Manager, Government Affairs at BASF Corporation, where he works on issues ranging from corporate tax and the bioeconomy to digital and AI policy.

His journey took him from a 2+2 experience at Penn State Berks and involvement in student government and MANRRS to Washington, D.C., where he worked on the House Committee on Agriculture and the 2018 Farm Bill.

One lesson from Penn State continues to shape his career: “One has to be able to connect with people and understand that everyone has unique experiences and backgrounds that influence their way of thinking.”

Darryl’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, agriculture and, above all, finishing what he starts.

Read his full alumni spotlight: https://ow.ly/H93g50ZEW4u

08/28/2026

And just like that… the first week of classes is done.

08/27/2026

Welcoming a new leader in graduate education! 🎓

Kathryn Brasier has been named faculty director of graduate education in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences.

With more than two decades of experience in graduate education, mentorship, research and academic leadership at Penn State, Brasier brings a wealth of expertise to this role. She will focus on supporting graduate student success, strengthening graduate programs and advancing excellence in graduate education across the college.

“Kathy's extensive experience as a scholar, mentor and leader has given her a deep understanding of what students and graduate programs need to thrive,” said Beth Gugino, associate dean for research operations and graduate education.

Brasier has served as a mentor and adviser to graduate students across disciplines, served in leadership roles on the Penn State Graduate Council and currently chairs the council, providing University-wide leadership on graduate education policy, governance and strategic priorities.

In her new role, she is committed to enhancing student support, professional development and educational opportunities while promoting excellence in graduate research, teaching, Penn State Extension and professional preparation.

Join us in congratulating Kathryn Brasier on her new role! 👏

Read more about her experience and vision for graduate education in the College of Agricultural Sciences:

Kathryn Brasier has been named faculty director of graduate education in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, bringing more than two decades of experience in graduate education, mentorship and academic leadership at Penn State to the role.

08/26/2026

Your generosity enables us to advance student success, conduct groundbreaking research, and serve communities across Pennsylvania, the nation, and the world. 👏

08/25/2026

There was a familiar sight outside our Ag Admin Building yesterday: Dr. Noel Habashy, associate teaching professor and coordinator of our college’s International Agriculture minor, sitting with a simple sign that says:

“Ask a Professor Anything.”

No appointment necessary. No question too random.

For the past few years, whenever his schedule allows, Noel has spent the lunch hour making himself available to students, and the questions have covered everything. From study tips and directions to campus buildings to his football predictions, students know they can stop by, ask a question, and have a conversation.

It’s a simple idea, but it says something wonderful about the kind of professor Noel is: approachable, curious, and always willing to make time for students.

Welcome back, students! We’re glad you’re here.

08/24/2026

It’s the first day of a new semester. Let’s do this!