By KORTNEY LANG
Tiger Media Network
Fort Hays State University Department of Agriculture Department Chair Sophie Ano has been chair for three years, and has supported each and every one of her students along the way. The agriculture department holds great importance in FHSU’s history. FHSU was initially built around the university’s farm, “so agriculture has always been an important piece of our campus,” Ano said.
According to Ano, with agriculture surrounding the campus community, it is important to advocate for the industry. Informing others about where their food comes from, as well as how it is produced, helps others understand the importance of agriculture. As the Department Chair, Ano spreads awareness about the agriculture program here at FHSU.
“A lot of my advocating is done internally on campus so other students, faculty and staff are aware of the size and needs of our programs,” she said.
Kiley Whipple is a student who has worked alongside Ano while being an Ag Ambassador and has developed a great relationship throughout that experience.
“I enjoy working with Dr. Ano because she is determined and energetic in everything that she does,” Whipple said.
Through Ano’s position as Department Chair, she recognizes the needs of students and takes action.
“She has been a mentor in making decisions for the future, she has been a leader to me while being an ambassador for the ag department, and she has been a contact and resource in times of need,” Whipple said.
FHSU’s University farm is located just five minutes away from the Quad. With 3500 acres of farm land, students are given the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the industry. Currently, a new classroom is being built on the farm, and is projected to be completed in December to allow for classes to take place there in the spring. The agriculture department is made up of both students who come from a background in agriculture, as well as those who have little to no experience. These learning opportunities are vital for each student’s success within the program.
Ano said that enrollment within the Agriculture Department stays at a steady rate of about 400 students each year. This allows the department to focus on each student’s success.
The department hosts many different events throughout both the fall and spring semesters, hosting an Ag Career fair last week and later this fall, the Trick or Treat at the Farm on October 25, and Block and Bridle Little I on November 2.
Students can find out more about upcoming events within the department by visiting their Facebook page.