[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” text_font_size=”21px” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_font_size=”72px” custom_padding=”||2%||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ header_font_size_tablet=”42px” header_font_size_phone=”32px” header_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Reflections on Spring 2025<\/h1>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Sidebar Nav\/Intro” module_id=”top” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”20px||41px|||” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||2px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” text_line_height=”1.6em” header_font_size=”36px” header_2_font_size=”36px” hover_enabled=”0″ header_font_size_tablet=”32px” header_font_size_phone=”24px” header_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
This spring brought several challenges but also a renewed resolve to fulfill our Land-Grant Mission. We remain committed to providing innovative and meaningful educational experiences, high-quality, actionable research outcomes, and intentional engagement with external partners to solve agricultural and natural resource-based problems for Colorado and beyond. Inside, you will see that several of our students, staff, and faculty received departmental, college, and association awards for their outstanding efforts in these areas. We look forward to enjoying the beautiful summer in Fort Collins and returning re-energized for the fall semester. Wishing you a fun, safe, and relaxing summer.<\/p>\n
– Dr. Hayley Chouinard, Department Head<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/h-chouinard-260×293-min.jpg” alt=”Hayley Chouinard New DARE Folks<\/a> | Departures and Celebrations<\/a> | DARE Highlights<\/a> | 2025 Awards and Recognitions<\/a> | DARE Spring 2025 Graduation<\/a> | Research & Programs<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”folks” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#F1F1F1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We are pleased to recognize new DARE hires and celebrate some transitions within the department!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/jenny-bennett-260×293-260-x-293.jpg” alt=”Dr. Jenny Bennett” title_text=”jenny-bennett-260×293-260 x 293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dr. Jenny Bennett<\/strong> – Jenny Bennett was hired as an Assistant Professor in Agricultural Education within the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics. In addition to teaching agricultural literacy courses, Jenny has coordinated the CAMs AgAcademy: On the Road Ag Literacy programming, as well as the CSU educational manager for Ag Adventure at the National Western Stock Show. Her research interests include agricultural literacy, agricultural education, student success and retention. A Colorado native and a two-time alum of CSU\u2019s College of Agricultural Sciences, Jenny earned both her bachelor\u2019s and master\u2019s degrees. Following the completion of her master\u2019sdegree, Jenny joined the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics faculty in 2020. She recently earned her PhD in Career and Technical Education through Utah State University.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Chelsea Bonser<\/strong> – Chelsea Bonser joined the USDA Northwest and Rocky Mountain Regional Food Business Center as the Marketing Specialist, where she leads regional communications strategy andstorytelling efforts to support resilient food systems across six states. Chelsea brings a blend of corporate, academic, and grassroots experience to her role. She began her career in beefsales with JBS, managing retail and food service accounts before pursuing advanced research in agricultural communications at Colorado State University. There, she collaborated with USDA APHIS to develop science-based outreach tools for national livestock health studies and taught professional and technical writing courses. Chelsea is also the founder of a homesteading brand and cottage food business. Through her blog, food and farm business, and hands-on workshops, she uplifts rural living, motherhood, and homemade traditions. Her work reflects a deep commitment to stewardship, community engagement, and value-driven service, all of which inform her approach to food system transformation and regional outreach.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/c-bonser-260×293-1.jpg” alt=”Chelsea Bonser” title_text=”c-bonser-260×293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/a-tuhkanen-260×293-1.jpg” alt=”Abbey Tuhkanen and Cam the Ram” title_text=”a-tuhkanen-260×293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Abbey Tuhkanen<\/strong> – Abbey holds two bachelor\u2019s degrees from Colorado State University in Journalism and Media Communication and Communication Studies. She plays a keyrole on the AgNext team, providing event and administrative support to help advance AgNext\u2019s mission of sharing and expanding its research with the community and beyond. Before joining AgNext, Abbey served as the Director of Events in the CSU Athletic Department and later as the Assistant Director of Engagement at the CSU Alumni Association. In these roles, she collaborated closely with the College of Agricultural Sciences, the Office of Engagement & Extension, and various agricultural companies\u2014experiences that fueled her passion for the industry and led her to AgNext. Outside of work, Abbey enjoys lifting weights at the gym, attending sporting events, spending time with friends and family, and hanging out with her dog, Opal.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,1_5,3_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2023\/01\/kellie-enns.jpeg” alt=”Kellie Enns” title_text=”Kellie Enns, Agricultural and Resource Economics, Colorado State” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/07\/2022_NicholasMagnan1-1-269×300.jpg” alt=”CSU ram head.” title_text=”2022_NicholasMagnan1″ admin_label=”Image” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Kellie Enns<\/strong> and Nicholas Magnan<\/strong> were recently promoted by CSU President Amy Parson\u2019s to the rank of Professor. Thank you both for your amazing work and all the ways you have contributed to DARE.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dr. Anders Van Sandt<\/strong> – Anders is an Assistant Professor of Regional Economics and a Community Development Extension Specialist in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics at the University of Wyoming. Dr. Van Sandt received his Ph.D. in 2018 from Colorado State University in Agricultural and Resource Economics and worked for two years as a postdoctoral scholar at Texas A&M. His current Extension and research efforts revolve around promoting rural economic development by exploring rural-urban linkages, entrepreneurship, access to healthcare, and interdependencies between local industries. Though an early career member, Dr.Van Sandt has been awarded a USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant and has published numerous academic and Extension articles in outlets such as Health Economics, Tourism Economics, and the Journal of Regional Science, among others.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/van-sandt-260×293-1.jpg” alt=”Dr. Anders Van Sandt” title_text=”van-sandt-260×293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/t-vilsack-260×293-1.jpg” alt=”Thomas Vilsack” title_text=”t-vilsack-260×293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Thomas Vilsack<\/strong> – Former governor of Iowa and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture has joined DARE as an Affiliate Faculty member. Please see a new and exciting course he will be teaching with other DARE Faculty this fall below!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Audrey Welsh<\/strong> – Audrey Welsh is a key contributor to the Northwest and Rocky Mountain USDA Regional Food Business Center, where she oversees administrative operations and leads impact evaluation efforts to document and elevate the Center\u2019s contributions across local and regional food economies in a multi-state region. She supports the Business Builder program, which manages a $6.755 million budget and is projected to award funding to up to 450 food and farm businesses. In parallel, Audrey is developing a statewide curriculum focused on digital infrastructure and value chains, designed to strengthen local procurement strategies and soft infrastructure within food systems\u2014particularly through enhanced farm-to-school connections. Her work equips producers, aggregators, and institutional buyers with the tools, networks, and knowledge needed to navigate an evolving food landscape and foster long-term economic, social, and environmental resilience.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/a-welsh-260×293-1.jpg” alt=”Audrey Welsh” title_text=”a-welsh-260×293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”celebration” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_width_bottom=”2px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/greg-perry-260-x-293.jpg” alt=”Dr. Greg Perry” title_text=”greg-perry-260 x 293″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dr. Greg Perry Retires<\/strong> – After more than four decades dedicated to agribusiness education, farm management research and water resource policy, Greg Perry is retiring from academia. He joined Colorado State University in 2011 as Department Head and Professor in CSU\u2019s Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics.<\/p>\n Throughout his career, Perry\u2019s research has primarily focused on water resource management, agricultural finance and farm management. His work on farm equipment depreciation became the industry standard for engineers, economists and agricultural professionals. He also studied tax policies and their impact on the competitive position of U.S. farmers. Perry has also contributed significantly to water resource management in the West, helping farmers adopt management best practices to improve water quality and quantity. Much of this work was conducted in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. At Colorado State, he has sought to better Read more about Dr. Perry\u2019s service here<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dr. Kellie Enns named CAS Associate Dean for Academic Affairs<\/strong> – Our beloved Dr. Kellie Enns has been selected to serve as the College of Agricultural Sciences\u2019 new Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs. Since 2005, Kellie has been a leader in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics\u2019 Agricultural Education program, driving growth and innovation and nurturing critical partnerships across the state. In this new role, she will focus on faculty development, academic programs and student success, supporting the college\u2019s record enrollment growth.<\/p>\n You can read the full announcement on SOURCE<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2023\/01\/kellie-enns.jpeg” alt=”Kellie Enns” title_text=”Kellie Enns, Agricultural and Resource Economics, Colorado State” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”highlights” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#1E4D2B” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_radii=”off|6px|6px||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion open_toggle_text_color=”#1E4D2B” open_toggle_background_color=”#FFFFFF” closed_toggle_background_color=”#1E4D2B” icon_color=”#F15625″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” toggle_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”|2%||2%|false|true” custom_padding=”||||false|true” db_closeable=”on” db_initial_state=”all_closed” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”DARE 2025 Networking Mixer” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”The 2025 CO FFA Career Development Events” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n Hear from Gracelynn Farago an Ag Education Major with us and currently serving as a CO FFA State Officer on her experience, \u201cThis last year serving as a Colorado FFA State Officer has been an incredible experience. I have been able to meet members from all across the state and facilitate workshops while making connections with them. I have been given the opportunity to gain lifelong relationships in many different settings, like my nine teammates, a new advisor, many members, and countless sponsors and business professionals, each who have made an impact on me in a different way. While at CSU as a student I helped to put on and run the State CDE competition with the Ag Ed department and see how the competitions are created. This year I was able to come back to campus and enjoy this competition in a different way. Being back on campus was amazing, I got to see friends and professors I haven’t met with in a long time. I was able to enjoy the competition days with both my FFA family and my CSU family. Though I have more than enjoyed my time as a State Officer, I am excited to be back on campus this coming fall. I have missed the people and the courses I am able to take. It is a bittersweet end to this dream of a year, but I can\u2019t wait to be back!\u201d<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Colorado GROW Youth Institute” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2025 CAS Graduate Student and Post-doc Research Showcase” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]We had several graduate students participate in this year\u2019s CAS Graduate Student and Post-doc Research Showcase. A special congrats to Brooke Fitzgerald (PhD Candidate) on receiving a top presenter award for her research in: Estimating the Global Cost of Smoke Exposure Using Machine Learning. Brooke was given an outstanding scholars award during the CAS Award Ceremony (see more below under all CAS\/AES awards).[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”CAS Graduate Student Council hosted their first CAS Graduate Happy Hour this semester” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”] Graduate Student Tais Menezes and Professor Amanda Countryman participated in a dynamic modeling course in March through the Global Trade Analysis Project at Purdue University.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Undergrad Research for New and Beginning Farmers” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Alumni Highlights\/Stories of Impact” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”AREC 380A4: Dynamics of Ag and Food Markets and Policy” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n The Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics has noted the increasing interest in [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Be a Founding Mentor in a Newly Designed Agribusiness Course” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n This fall (August 2025), DARE is launching a redesigned Introduction to Agribusiness Entrepreneurship course centered on student-led podcasts, real-world case studies, and hands-on mentorship. We’re seeking 10 entrepreneurs and industry professionals to serve as mentors. A small stipend is available to help offset travel costs as needed. Interested? Contact Dr. Lauren Chenarides<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Livestock Business Management on Capitol Hill” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]In April, Vivi Ruppenthal, a Livestock Business Management program sophomore, learned about ag policy by joining Jennifer Martin, Associate Professor of Animal Sciences, on Capitol Hill as part of Jennifer\u2019s Pork Leadership fellowship. Vivi had the opportunity to visit all the Colorado\u00a0 representative offices. She did a great job engaging with congress members and staff about immigration visa reform, animal health, the Farm Bill, and other issues facing agriculture.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_radii=”off|||6px|6px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion open_toggle_text_color=”#1E4D2B” open_toggle_background_color=”#FFFFFF” closed_toggle_background_color=”#1E4D2B” icon_color=”#F15625″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” toggle_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”|2%||2%|false|true” custom_padding=”||||false|true” db_closeable=”on” db_initial_state=”all_closed” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”DARE Diplomats” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The DARE Diplomats had a very successful year! Many students volunteered at various DARE events, the group hosted bowling nights, collaborated with other clubs\/orgs across campus, and advocated for our program. Thanks for all you do!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”WE DARE (Women in Economics, DARE)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”CSU Farm Bureau” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]5 CSU Farm Bureau Students participated in the American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers and Ranchers Conference in March: Austen McCue, Jace Pfost, Kambria Wilkin, Taylor Cary, Moriah Ashley, and Dr. Countryman. During the conference, Austen competed in the National YF&R Discussion Meet contest and placed in the top 16.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”CSU Farmers Union” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”award” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Congrats to all our DARE CAS\/AES Award winners. We appreciate all that you do for our department, students, and community!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Congrats to all our DARE CAS\/AES Award winners. We appreciate all that you do for our department, students, and community!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_4,1_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/DARE-cas-award-winners-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”13%|6%|13%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#59595B” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/DARE-countryman-award-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”7%|6%|7%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/DARE-constanigro-award-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#59595B” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/DARE-thilmany-award-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”7%|6%|7%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Congrats to all our DARE Undergraduate Award Winners! DARE hosted an award banquet at the beginning of May to recognize the following awardees.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Outstanding First Year<\/strong><\/p>\n Outstanding Sophomore<\/strong><\/p>\n Outstanding Newcomer<\/strong><\/p>\n Outstanding Junior<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Senior Academic Achievement<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Senior Leadership<\/strong><\/p>\n Outstanding Senior<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_4,1_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-undergrad-award-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”13%|6%|13%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-undergrad-award-3-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#59595B” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-undergrad-award-2-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”7%|6%|7%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#59595B” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-undergrad-award-4-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”7%|6%|7%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”grad” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#F1F1F1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Congratulations to all our 2025 Graduates! DARE hosted a special Ice cream social for all graduates and many DARE Faculty\/Staff were there to celebrate our students at commencement. This year CSU did a University wide Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 16 and the College of Agricultural Sciences hosted recognition ceremonies for individual departments on Sunday, May 18, watch the recording here<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Multiple DARE students were highlighted as \u201cCollege of Agricultural Science Outstanding Grads\u201d. You can learn more about them and their story here.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Becca Ford, graduating senior in Environmental & Natural Resource Economics was awarded one of the 2025 CAS Shepardson Awards. Students who receive this award demonstrate outstanding leadership ability during their undergraduate career through employment, activities, and organizations within the college and throughout the university related to agricultural sciences all while maintaining a minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA. Becca delivered a [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-graduation-4-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”13%|6%|13%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-graduation-2-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#59595B” background_image=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-graduation-1080×700-1.jpg” custom_padding=”7%|6%|7%|6%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”25%||25%||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”research” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#1E4D2B” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_radii=”off|6px|6px||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n See some of DARE\u2019s highlighted work, research, and community efforts in the news!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_2,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” width=”100%” max_width=”85%” custom_margin=”0%||||false|true” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” border_radii=”off|||6px|6px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/daretocompete-1080×700-1.jpg” alt=”DARE Students running the Horsetooth Half Marathon” title_text=”daretocompete-1080×700″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/daretocompete-2-1080×700-1.jpg” alt=”Two DARE Students celebrate at the end of a running race” title_text=”daretocompete-2-1080×700″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Squiggle – Aligned Left” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\t\t [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”26px” custom_padding=”|2%||2%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As much time members of DARE spend in the Nutrien building and in classrooms, many of them are also avid (and competitive!) runners and bike riders. Just in April and May Marco Costanigro (faculty) (and his wife Lisa) ran the Horsetooth Half Marathon, Aryn Baxter (faculty) completed the grueling Thelma and Louise Trail Marathon in Moab and several department members participated in the races of the Colorado Marathon: Jayna Mallon (Masters student) and Becca Ford (ENRE undergrad) ran the marathon, Caroline Norris (PhD student) the half marathon and Kathy Bruce (staff) the 10k. Kathy also ran the inaugural Bigfoot Half Marathon in Estes Park!<\/p>\n Another departmental highlight was the second-place finish of the CSU Road Cycling team at the team trial at the Collegiate Road Cycling Nationals in Madison, Wisconsin. Two of the four successful women are DARE undergraduate students: [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/daretocompete-3-1080×700-1.jpg” alt=”Four DARE students pose for a photo after a bike race” title_text=”daretocompete-3-1080×700″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/daretocompete-4-1080×700-1.jpg” alt=”Students crossing a finish line during a trail run race” title_text=”daretocompete-4-1080×700″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" \t\t
\nDepartment Head and Professor, Agricultural and Resource Economics” title_text=”h-chouinard-260×293-min” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”4px” border_color_top=”#F15625″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nNew DARE Folks<\/h3>\n
Departures & Celebrations<\/h3>\n
understand how states fund experiment stations, cooperative extension and land grant universities. He helped develop agribusiness and food innovation programming at CSU Spur in Denver, leading to the creation of the Master of Agribusiness and Food Innovation Management degree, which launched in fall 2022. Many gathered to celebrate his accomplishments and retirement on May 5. Thanks Dr. Perry, we wish you well and appreciate all you have done for DARE, CSU, and the state of Colorado.<\/p>\nDARE Highlights<\/h3>\n
![\"Students](\"https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-mixer-1080x700-1.jpg\")
We had over 12 vendors and 30 students attend this year\u2019s Networking Mixer. The Department hosts this unique event to invite alumni in the industry to interact with our students and connect them to jobs and resources. If interested in getting more information about this event please contact Aubriel Zachman<\/a>.<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/CDEs-2025-1080x700-1.jpg\")
(CDE\u2019s) were held on campus this year in April with over 1,800 FFA students from the biggest
cities to the smallest towns and 14 different competitive events. Many competition winners received DARE scholarships in the following competitions: Farm Business Management, Ag Sale, Land Judging, and Ag Mechanics. DARE provides up to $16,000 in scholarships for these
students. Several DARE faculty and staff members helped welcome these individuals by assisting in events, judging, and recruitment. A huge thank you to our AGED Team and all their efforts (Jenny Bennett, Kellie Enns, Nathan Clark, Abbey Tuhkanen, Don Thorn, Katharine Eshelman, and so many more!). You can watch the following video<\/a> the College of Ag put together to highlight CDE\u2019s.<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/grow-youth-2-1080x700-1.jpg\")
In April 2025, 23 students from across the state attended the second annual Colorado GROW Youth Institute\u00a0<\/a>event at the CSU Spur campus. Students presented their research on global
food security challenges to CSU faculty, staff and members of the broader community. They also engaged in hands-on science immersion activities facilitated by partners at the CSU Spur campus, including Cam\u2019s Ag Academy. Twelve students were awarded scholarships to attend the College of Agricultural Sciences, and three will be selected in the coming months to attend the World Food Prize Foundation\u2019s Global Youth Institute as Colorado\u2019s second group of student delegates.<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-grad-mixer-1080x700-1.jpg\")
It was a huge success and students from all CAS graduate programs were able to make meaningful connections. Our very own, Brooke Fitzgerald serves as a graduate student representative on this council.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Global Trade Analysis Project” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/DARE-becca-fordaward-1080x700-1.jpg\")
Senior DARE undergraduate Becca Ford co-authored a peer-reviewed article with Daniel Mooney, Rebecca Hill, and other colleagues, set to appear in Western Economics Forum. Based on her CSU Extension internship, the article features case studies on innovative water management strategies for new and beginning farmers. Becca\u2019s work reflects her commitment to practical solutions in water management and sustainable agriculture\u2014congrats, Becca!<\/p>\n\n
understanding and preparing for leadership roles related to agricultural, food and natural resource policy issues among our students and colleagues. In response, a new course, AREC 380A4: Dynamics of Ag and Food Markets and Policy, taught by former USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack (with support from DARE faculty) will be piloted in Fall 2025 with a goal to help students better understand the rationale and development of policies and programs aimed to support agriculture, the natural environment, and rural communities. Students will learn professional development and leadership skills as they interact with policy makers at all levels of the government. For the time being, Secretary Vilsack’s commitment to partner with us to offer this course represents a unique opportunity for our students but we know we can engage others as well to sustain the course in the future.<\/p>\n
Mentor responsibilities include:<\/p>\n\n
DARE Clubs and Organizations<\/h4>\n
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The first annual WE DARE Bikes and Brews was a huge success! The group visited two of the women owned breweries in town – Hello Brew and Stodgy Brewing. Look for more events next fall!<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/agsci.colostate.edu\/mcfadden-testing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/175\/2025\/06\/dare-farmers-union-1080x700-1.jpg\")
The Collegiate Farmers Union Chapter hosted various gatherings this semester including a Policy Talk given by RMFU\u2019s Director of Government Relations, Tyler Garrett, flowerpot painting night, and the group brought in a local producer to talk about chicken production.<\/p>\n2025 Awards and Recognitions<\/h3>\n
2025 CAS\/AES DARE Award Winners<\/h4>\n
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Economics<\/li>\n
Economics<\/li>\n\n
WAEA Teaching Award for less than 10 years<\/h4>\n
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2025 DARE Undergraduate Awards<\/h4>\n
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DARE 2025 Graduation<\/h3>\n
Masters\/PhD Students Graduates<\/h4>\n
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CAS Outstanding Students<\/h4>\n
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CAS Student Shepardson Award Highlight<\/h4>\n
speech at the 2025 CAS recognition ceremony. Congrats Becca, we are very proud of you!<\/p>\nDARE Research & Programs<\/h3>\n
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very own Dr. Dawn Thilmany, with a team that includes several of our Extension affiliates, new hires and student colleagues (Libby Christensen, Martha Sullins, Jayna Mallon, Audrey Welsh). This Colorado State University-led regional food business center funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture selected 118 small and medium-size farm and food business projects in Colorado, the Mountain West and the Pacific Northwest funded with nearly $2 million in grants. Check out the CSU Source article to learn more about these amazing efforts! You can also go to the following link to read some of the impact stories of these grants. Get connected to the Food Center through their newsletter.<\/li>\nDARE to Compete!<\/h3>\n
Ella Zimmerman (Ag Business), the team\u2019s track and road women\u2019s captain, and Isa Naschold (ENRE), the team\u2019s vice president. They also contributed to the points that allowed the CSU Cycling Team to win the year-long club team omnium, making the team the best overall in all cycling disciplines against all other club schools in the country!<\/p>\n