American Feed Industry Association Award in Nonruminant Nutrition Research

Sponsored by: American Feed Industry Association (AFIA)

Nicholas Gabler, Iowa State University

Dr. Nicholas Gabler is the J.F. Patience Professor in Swine Nutrition in the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. Dr. Gabler's research, teaching, and extension efforts focus on swine nutrition, metabolism, and physiology. He earned his Bachelor's and Ph.D. degrees from La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia. After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Gabler conducted postdoctoral research at Purdue University and Iowa State University. He joined the ISU Animal Science Department in 2008 as an assistant professor. Dr. Gabler leads a diverse research program centered on improving swine nutrition, feed efficiency, and growth. In the last decade, he has extensively studied nutrition-health interactions in pigs. His research includes the effects of diet structure on enteric and respiratory diseases, alternatives to zinc oxide and in-feed antibiotics, and the role of dietary amino acids, protein, energy, calcium, and phosphorus on lean tissue and bone growth as well as pig health.

Presentation Details
Title: Innovative Nutrition Strategies for Modern Swine Management
Session: Nonruminant Nutrition III
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 8:30–9:00 AM
Room: Great Hall 5

American Feed Industry Association Award in Ruminant Nutrition Research

Sponsored by: American Feed Industry Association

Nicolas DiLorenzo, University of Florida

Dr. Nicolas DiLorenzo, a native of City Bell, Argentina, received his degree in Agricultural Engineering from the Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina, in 2002 and his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Animal Science at the University of Minnesota in 2004 and 2008, respectively. From 2008 to 2010 DiLorenzo worked as a postdoctoral Research Associate at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, TX. In 2010 he joined the University of Florida as an Assistant Professor at the North Florida Research and Education Center in Marianna, where he is currently holding the rank of Professor. His primary research and extension interests are in the area of beef cattle nutrition, with the objective of improving the efficiency of use of forages, minimizing the environmental impact. His programs have received more than $30 million in grant funds or gifts. DiLorenzo has mentored a total of 18 M.S. and 17 Ph.D. students, and has published 139 peer reviewed manuscripts, one book chapter, and has co-edited a book.

Presentation Details
Title: The role of liquid feeds in the beef cattle nutrition in the U.S.: A 50-year journey
Session: Ruminant Nutrition VII: Production Systems
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Time: 8:00–8:30 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 3

Animal Growth and Development Award

Bradley J. Johnson, Texas Tech University

Dr. Brad Johnson, a native of Milbank, SD, is being recognized for his outstanding contributions to the livestock industry as the recipient of the Animal Growth and Development Award. Currently, he holds the Gordon W. Davis Regent’s Chair in Meat Science and Muscle Biology in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at Texas Tech University. With over 30 years of research experience, Dr. Johnson’s work has focused on veterinary drugs used in global meat-animal production, particularly steroidal implants and β-adrenergic agonists. His pioneering studies, including the first evaluation of trenbolone acetate and estradiol 17β implants in U.S. beef cattle, have advanced understanding of muscle growth and metabolism. His laboratory has led research on β-adrenergic agonists and their effects on muscle and adipose tissue. Dr. Johnson has significantly contributed to anti-doping efforts alleged with meat consumption and was appointed to the FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee of Food Additives.

Presentation Details
Title: Increasing our understanding of skeletal muscle growth and development through the use of exogenous growth promotants
Session: Growth and Development II
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 2:00–2:30 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 4

Animal Industry Innovation Award

Sponsored by: Zoetis, Inc.

Rand Broadway, USDA-ARS Livestock Issues Research Unit

Dr. Rand Broadway serves as a Research Microbiologist at the USDA-ARS, Livestock Issues Research Unit. His innovative research aims to understand the interactions of pathogens and gut health and the downstream effects of gastrointestinal barrier dysfunction. One of Dr. Broadway’s novel innovations was the development of a model to induce liver abscesses in cattle. This is the only model that has successfully induced liver abscesses mimicking real-world disease etiology and has shed light on causal and correlating factors surrounding this costly disease. This model has demonstrated that acidosis and high-concentrate diets are not the only driver of liver abscess formation and eludes that pathogen type and concentration is likely the primary driver of prevalence. Dr. Broadway has served on 16 graduate student committees, secured $3 million in research funding and has authored or co-authored 81 peer-reviewed articles. He, his wife, and three children reside in Lubbock, TX.

Presentation Details
Title: The complexities of liver abscess etiology through the lens of an experimental model
Session: Ruminant Nutrition III: Nutritional Physiology
Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Time: 8:30–9:00 AM
Room: Great Hall 3

Animal Management Award

Antonio Faciola, University of Florida

Antonio Faciola earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in Animal Sciences from the Federal University of Viçosa, Brazil, and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin. He is currently an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator at the University of Florida. The overarching goal of his lab is to improve the efficiency of nutrient utilization in ruminants. Since 2013, he has secured over 6 million dollars in funding, published over 100 peer-reviewed articles, and presented over 50invited talks in 10 countries. He teaches undergrad and grad students and has mentored 11 MS students, 14 Ph.D. students, 33 visiting scholars, 7 postdocs, and 95 undergrads in his lab. He has mentored individuals from 24 countries and received several awards including: the 2018 Lallemand Forward Award for Scientific Excellence, the 2020 Cargill Animal Nutrition Young Scientist Award, the 2020 Undergraduate Faculty Mentor of the Year at the University of Florida and the 2024 Animal Industry Innovation Award. 

Presentation Details
Title: Shaping Future Animal Scientists: The Role of Mentoring in Graduate Education and Career Development
Session: Teaching/Undergraduate and Graduate Education
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 3:30–4:00 PM
Room: Great Hall 1

Animal Physiology and Endocrinology Award

Sponsored by: James W. Lauderdale Appreciation Club

George Perry, Texas A&M AgriLife Research

George Perry received his B.S. from Texas A&M University, and his M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Missouri. Dr. Perry has built a highly productive program in reproductive management. His activities over the past decade have focused on reproduction management in beef cattle, with many projects conducted on producers’ operations. Additionally, many of Dr. Perry’s research findings have been adopted into producers’ management decisions. He has served as the chair of the Bovine Reproductive Task Force. His accomplishments in reproductive management and his expertise in reproductive management are not only recognized in the U.S. but throughout the world. His program has received more than $7 million in support. Dr. Perry has published 128 peer-review manuscripts, 15 book chapters, 240 abstracts, 139 non-refereed scientific publications and proceedings, 21 extension articles and videos, and numerous popular press articles. George and his wife, Brandi, have two children.

Presentation Details
Title: Estrus Improved Pregnancy Success but not Embryo Growth or Uterine Attachment
Session: Physiology and Endocrinology IV: Embryo Development and Fertility
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Time: 8:00–8:30 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 5

Armstrong Leadership Award

Sponsored by: Armstrong Leadership Fund

W. Brandon Smith, Auburn University

Dr. Brandon Smith is strong candidate for the ASAS Armstrong Leadership Award, demonstrating dedication and leadership within the field of animal sciences. As a faculty member at Auburn University, Dr. Smith has consistently exhibited a commitment to advancing research, education, and mentorship. His innovative work in forage-based animal nutrition has contributed significantly to both academic knowledge and practical applications in the industry. Beyond his research, Dr. Smith has fostered a culture of collaboration and excellence within his department, guiding students through programs while instilling a sense of professionalism and responsibility. His leadership extends to service on multiple professional committees through ASAS and other organizations, enhancing the visibility and impact of Auburn’s animal sciences programs. Dr. Smith’s vision and dedication to growing the field of animal sciences make him an exemplary candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Presentation Details
Title: Integration and Synergism: Where Ruminant Nutrition Meets Forage Systems and Where Teaching Meets Research
Session: Forages and Pastures I
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 8:30–9:00 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 2

ASAS Fellow Award: Industry Category

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science

Connie Kay Larson, Zinpro Corporation

One of the most significant changes that has occurred in ASAS membership over the tenure of Dr. Larson’s career has been the increased participation by women in what has traditionally been a male-oriented profession. In this respect Dr. Larson has been a pioneer by being a role model not only for the many young women in the animal sciences, but for all who recognize and admire her as a true professional and valued colleague. To this end, the recognition of Dr. Connie Larson as a 2025 ASAS Fellow for Allied Industry honors her numerous lifetime contributions and accomplishments which all her many peers and colleagues can celebrate. As in many fields or endeavors the most valued honors are those awarded by your peers; however. in addition to her many academic and professional attributes Dr. Larson’s positive outlook, keen intellect and ability to motivate people to give their best are qualities which can be an inspiration and admired by all.

ASAS Fellow Award: Research Category

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science

Brian Kerr, USDA-ARS-NLEA

Dr. Brian Kerr was raised on a crop and swine farm in west-central Illinois and received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in 1988. He spent 3 years as Swine Technical Service Manager at Supersweet Feeds, 10 years as the Research Director for BioKyowa, a producer of amino acids, and the last 24 years as a scientist for USDA-ARS. His early career focused on refining amino acid requirements and use of crystalline amino acids in swine and poultry diets. He has also pioneered research to determine the feeding value and limitations of biofuels co-products, evaluated the effect diet composition on manure composition and gas emissions, assessed the role of lipid quality on caloric value, oxidative stress, and its mitigation in monogastric diets. Dr. Kerr was a committee member for the 2012 Swine NRC, was Section Editor and Editorial Board member for the Journal of Animal Science and has co-authored nearly 200 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Kerr and his wife Liz have three daughters.

ASAS Fellow: Administration Category

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science

Robert W. Godfrey, USDA-NIFA

Bob Godfrey earned a B.S. in Animal Science & Industry from Kansas State University and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Animal Science (Reproductive Physiology) from Texas A&M University. He conducted postdoctoral studies at the USDA ARS Roman L. Hruska U.S. Meat Animal Research Center. From 1993-2021, Bob was an Animal Science research faculty member at the University of the Virgin Islands and Assistant/Associate/Director of the Virgin Islands Agricultural Experiment Station. In 2020, he received the Excellence in Leadership award for the Southern Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors. Bob was Secretary-Treasurer and President of the ASAS Southern Section and served on the ASAS National Board of Directors (2020-2023). In 2025, he received the Distinguished Service Award for the ASAS Southern Section. Since 2021, Bob has been Director, Division of Animal Systems at the USDA NIFA Institute of Food Production and Sustainability where he supervises a team of 20 scientific and administrative staff and provides scientific and budgetary oversight for 19 competitive grant programs (more than $27 million in FY 2024) for animal systems.

ASAS Fellow: Teaching Category

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science

William Flowers, NC State University

Dr. W. L. Flowers has excelled in teaching during the past 38 years. He has taught over 11,000 students and consistently ranks in the top 1% of all teachers at NCSU. He has mentored 270 undergraduate students in teaching/research projects, 90 of which have completed advanced degrees and now have positions in academia, industry, or government. Each of the top 25 swine production companies in the world have students of his in key positions. He is a co-founder of the first lateral entry program in the US for food animal veterinarians (Food Animal Scholars) and the first distance education program for swine management professionals (Swine On-Line). As an ASAS Board Member (2012-2015) he chaired the Communications Committee which was instrumental in the development of the Natural Sciences Education Journal, the Junior Animal Science program, and reorganization of the ASAS Image Gallery. His educational activities related to animal science have been recognized by USDA (2007), ASAS (2015), National Pork Board (2019), and the North Carolina Pork Council (2024). 

ASAS Retiree Service Award

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science

Ronald D. Randel, Texas A&M AgriLife Research

Dr. Ronald D. Randel, a world-renowned authority on beef cattle reproductive physiology and endocrinology, was born in Kansas and graduated from high school in Redwood City, CA. After a brief time at Kansas State, Ron served 4 years in the Navy. He earned a BS degree in Animal Science at Washington State (1965). Under Dr. Ralph Erb's mentorship, Ron earned the PhD degree in Animal Physiology at Purdue (1971). In 1971, Ron joined the U.S. Range Livestock Experiment Station in Miles City, MT as a Research Scientist. In 1974, he accepted an Associate Professorship at Texas A&M System Overton Research Center. He advanced to the rank of Full Professor in 1978 and is a Senior Faculty Fellow and a Regents Fellow. He has been a Fullbright Fellow and received the ASAS Physiology and Endocrinology Award, the Casida Award, and the Morrison Award. Ron and his wife Colleen reside in Tyler, Texas. Their son, Lowell, daughter-in-law, Shelly, and granddaughters, Katelyn and Paige, reside in Lorton, VA.

ASAS Young Scholar Award

Sponsored by: Elanco

Cecilia Constantino Rocha, University of Florida

Cecilia Constantino Rocha is an Assistant Research Professor in livestock systems in the Division of Animal Sciences at the University of Missouri. The focus of her career is to understand and manipulate the events that happen during early pregnancy in beef cattle. Her applied research focuses on the development of estrous synchronization protocols and novel alternatives such as Doppler ultrasonography for early pregnancy diagnosis or artificial intelligence for estrus detection. Her basic research focuses on studying the maternal-embryo crosstalk by transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics analysis in uterine and extrauterine tissues. Her current research priorities are puberty attainment in heifers, artificial insemination using gene-edited semen, and the biochemical composition of the uterus in the second week of gestation. Dr. Rocha has authored or co-authored 33 peer-reviewed journal articles, 33 abstracts, 2 book chapters, and 16 extension articles.

Presentation Details
Title: The importance of estrus expression and endometrial function for the pregnancy success in beef cattle
Session: Physiology and Endocrinology IV: Embryo Development and Fertility
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025 
Time: 9:30–10:00 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 5

Sponsored by: Elanco

Abbigail Hines, Auburn University

Dr. Abbigail Hines, a recent doctoral graduate from Auburn University, has made significant contributions to ruminant nutrition and forage management. Her groundbreaking research on bermudagrass digestibility addresses critical challenges in forage quality and methane production, advancing sustainability in livestock systems. A gifted mentor, Dr. Hines has guided numerous students, fostering future leaders in animal science. Her teaching excellence, highlighted by innovative classroom practices and engagement with diverse audiences, reflects her dedication to the land-grant mission. Dr. Hines has been recognized with numerous accolades, including first place in the 2024 AFGC Emerging Scholar Poster Competition and the ASAS Wilson G. Pond International Travel Award. Now an Assistant Professor at Kentucky State University, she continues to inspire and innovate, embodying the ideals of the American Society of Animal Science.

Presentation Details
Title: The Effect of Bermudagrass Cultivar on the Comprehensive Comparison of Digestive and Metabolic Profiles in Beef Heifers
Session: Forages and Pastures I
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 10:00–10:30 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 2

Sponsored by: Elanco

Mason Henson, Auburn University

Mason Henson, a Ph.D. candidate at Auburn University, has made significant contributions to animal science through her innovative research on forage systems and beef cattle production. Her work focuses on mitigating the effects of toxic-endophyte tall fescue by integrating red clover and biochanin A to improve cattle performance, health, and profitability. Mason’s studies have provided actionable solutions for producers, showcasing her ability to bridge scientific innovation with practical application. Mason has been an instructor at over 20 Extension programs, educating producers on forage management and sustainable practices. Mason is also a dedicated educator, mentoring other graduate students and serving as a teaching assistant in foundational and advanced animal science courses. Her academic achievements, including numerous conference presentations and publications, reflect her commitment to advancing the field. Mason exemplifies excellence in research, education, and outreach.

Presentation Details
Title: The effect of grass-legume mixtures on cattle in the Southeastern U.S.
Session: Forages and Pastures II
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 3:15–3:45 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 2

Sponsored by: Elanco

Thomas W. Dobbins, Texas Tech University

Thomas Dobbins is a Ph.D. candidate in Meat Science at Texas Tech University under the guidance of Dr. Jerrad Legako. Thomas earned his B.S. in Animal Science from the University of Georgia, then attended Mississippi State University where he earned his M.S. in Animal Science with Dr. Derris Burnett. His Masters research focused on understanding how melatonin supplementation during gestation influences pre and postnatal skeletal muscle growth in swine. Thomas's primary research at Texas Tech has focused on the metabolic, muscular, and environmental factors influencing color differences in beef cattle. Thus far, Thomas's efforts have led to 6 peer reviewed journal articles, 15 abstracts, and acquisition of external grant dollars.

Presentation Details
Title: Evaluation of longissimus lumborum muscle fiber type from beef carcasses of four color categories
Session: Meat Science and Muscle Biology
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 4:00–4:30 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 2

Sponsored by: Elanco

Taylor Andrews, New Mexico State University

Taylor Andrews earned her B.S. in Agriculture at The Ohio State University (2019) and M.S. at South Dakota State University (2021) where her research focused on nutritional changes before and after breeding on uterine mineral histotroph concentrations in beef heifers. Taylor is a Ph.D. candidate in the Animal and Range Sciences Department at New Mexico State University. Taylor’s Ph.D. research has focused on growth promoting implants and different supplemental protein levels on ovarian-follicular development in beef heifers grazing native rangelands. Additionally, Taylor has conducted research on the influence of source and level of rumen undegradable protein on growth, ovarian-follicular parameters, and uterine histotroph in heifers developed on rangelands and in a dry-lot. Taylor is a 2022 USDA NIFA Predoctoral Fellow and has published 6 peer reviewed articles, 8 proceeding papers, and 21 abstracts demonstrating her dedication to research and improving the beef industry. 

Presentation Details
Title: The Evaluation of Source and Level of Rumen Undegradable Protein on Growth Performance, Follicular Parameters, and Embryonic Development in Beef Heifers Grazing Native Rangelands
Session: Physiology and Endocrinology III: Nutrition, Stress, and Fetal Programming
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 9:45–10:15 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 5

Bouffault International Animal Agriculture Award

Sponsored by: Center for Regulatory Services, Inc.

Juan J. Loor, University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign

Juan Loor, a native of Ecuador, earned a B.S. degree from the University of California, Davis, and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Virginia Tech. He was post-doctoral researcher at INRA (France) and the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, before joining the faculty at Illinois in 2005. He is currently Professor of Animal Sciences and Nutritional Sciences.  Loor has been actively engaged in the Land-Grant mission through global research, mentoring, and service. He has over 250 publications co-authored with former/current students, post-docs, or visiting scientists from Asia, Central/South America, the Middle East, and Australasia. Areas of focus include the regulation of milk quality and the linkages among nutritional management, health, and production efficiency in ruminants. Loor has authored more than 550 peer-reviewed articles receiving over 19,500 citations. Several of his former graduate students and post-docs are currently in academic or industry positions in their home countries. His program has been funded by USDA, industry, and international programs.

Presentation Details
Title: From omics networks to targets of opportunity in ruminant nutritional physiology
Session: Ruminant Nutrition V: Application of in vitro methods
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 1:30–2:00 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 3

Corbin Award in Companion Animal Biology

Sponsored by: Jim Corbin Award Fund

Guido Bosch, Wageningen University & Research

Dr. Guido Bosch is an associate professor of Wageningen University, specialized in animal nutrition. Bosch received his Ph.D. from Wageningen in 2009 exploring the impact of nutrition on behaviour in dogs. His focus expanded to dog and cat diet history and feeding ecology, gut health, appetite regulation, Maillard reaction products, and protein sources. His interest in understanding the basic biology and nutrition of dogs and cats provided new reference points for how we see and feed our pets. He has published 86 peer-reviewed articles, multiple book chapters, over 100 conference proceedings, was member of the editorial board of the British Journal of Nutrition, and has been awarded over €3.6 million in grants/contracts. Bosch teaches in BSc and MSc courses and contributes to postgraduate courses of Wageningen Academy. Since 2006, he has supervised 168 masters, and five Ph.D. students. Many of the students he trained have gone on to positions in the animal nutrition industry and academia.

Presentation Details
Title: Ecological factors influencing dog and cat biology
Session: Companion Animal II
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 9:30–10:00 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 3

Distinguished Teacher Award

Sponsored by: Purina Animal Nutrition. LLC/Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Jodi Sterle, Iowa State University

Dr. Jodi Sterle holds the Harman Endowed Professorship in Undergraduate Teaching and Learning in the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. Known to be tough but fair, Dr. Sterle simply loves to teach! From introductory courses to rigorous discipline-based courses such as reproductive physiology, and from contemporary issues courses to a course on the art and history of livestock, Dr. Sterle has impacted thousands of students in a variety of subjects. Believing that much of a student’s education occurs outside of the classroom, Dr. Sterle advises several student clubs and has led ten international travel courses, including the United Kingdom, South Korea, France/Italy, Japan/Thailand and Portugal. No matter the enrollment, she takes the time to make every student feel connected. To date, Sterle has taught 13,579 students in 126 course offerings throughout her career.

Presentation Details
Title: Who ARE These People?? Current Animal Science Student Trends–and how Educators can 'Flex'
Session: Teaching/Undergraduate and Graduate Education
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 2:00–2:30 PM
Room: Great Hall 1

Early Career Achievement Award

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science Foundation

Raghavendra Amachawadi, Kansas State University

Dr. Raghavendra (Raghu) Amachawadi is an Associate Professor of Food Animal Therapeutics in the Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University. Raghu received BVSc (Bachelors in Veterinary Science) degree from India, and MS and Ph.D. from Kansas State University. Dr. Amachawadi’s research focuses on antimicrobials use, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial alternatives in cattle and swine, broadly aimed at developing and evaluating antimicrobial alternatives for liver abscess and bovine respiratory diseases control and to mitigate AMR. He has garnered a total of $14.9 million in extramural funding and generated 134 referred publications, 5 book chapters, 162 published abstracts, and 27 conference proceedings. He has supervised the completion of 4 MS and 2 PhD students, and currently, mentors 4 PhD and 2 MS students. He has provided opportunities for 48 undergraduate and 19 DVM students to conduct research. He has hosted a number of international scholars from Egypt, India and Tanzania to work on AMR research. He has developed and teaches a graduate course on AMR. Dr. Amachawadi resides in Manhattan, KS with his wife, Amoolya, son, Pranav, and daughter, Charvi.

Presentation Details
Title: Antimicrobial alternatives in swine and cattle production systems: Do they contribute to or mitigate antimicrobial resistance?
Session: Animal Health
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 1:30–2:00 PM
Room: Regency Ballroom 1

Equine Science Award

Sponsored by: Zinpro Corporation

Carolyn Hammer, North Dakota State University

Dr. Carolyn (Carrie) Hammer has had a distinguished two-decade career in equine science. At North Dakota State University, she shaped the Equine Science program and is the Associate Dean for the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources. Her research in nutrition, immunology, and developmental programming has led to pioneering work on the neonatal Fc receptor and collaborative efforts to study maternal nutrition and offspring development. Dr. Hammer has secured $1.18M in research funding and leads a novel, multi-university USDA-funded project for undergraduate research. She has authored 41 journal articles, 81 abstracts, 1 book, 4 book chapters, and 40 popular press/extension publications. Dr. Hammer's scholarly work is distinguished by its lasting impact, particularly through student mentorship and horse owner education, shaping future generations of equine professionals.

Presentation Details
Title: The role of immunoglobulin G in horses: past, present and future
Session: Horse Species
Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Time: 3:45–4:15 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 1

Extension Award

Sponsored by: Zoetis, Inc.

Joao Vendramini, Texas A&M University Agrilife Research & Extension Center

Dr. Joao Vendramini received his B.S. and M.S. degrees at the University of Sao Paulo, and Ph.D. at the University of Florida. He was Assistant Professor at Texas A&M from 2005 to 2006, Assistant, Associate, and Professor at the UF/IFAS RCREC, Ona, FL from 2006 to 2024, and he is currently a Professor and Center Director at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Stephenville, TX. Dr Vendramini’s program is dedicated to forage management with emphasis on sub-tropical production systems and the impact of forage management on animal production. Dr. Vendramini’s program has generated 5 book chapters; 198 peer-reviewed journal articles, 52 extension articles, and 200+ abstracts in professional meetings. He received the 2011 Florida Cattlemen’s Association Researcher of the Year, 2011 Florida Association of County Agriculture Agents Outstanding Specialist, and the 2019 ASAS Southern Section Extension Award. Dr. Vendramini is a fellow of the Crop Science Society of America and American Society of Agronomy and member of the American Society of Animal Sciences and American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists.

Presentation Details
Title: Increasing Awareness of Forage Management Benefits for Livestock Production in the Southeastern U.S.
Session: Forages and Pastures II
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 2:00–2:30 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 2

Gary L. Cromwell Award for Minerals Nutrition

Sponsored by: Gary L. Cromwell Appreciation Club

Marie-Pierre Létourneau Montminy, Laval University

Dr. Marie-Pierre Létourneau Montminy’s career reflects a life-long commitment to research in phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) nutrition and metabolism. She developed or refined important research models such as depletion-repletion, nutrient and growth modelling and precision feeding. She was a pioneer in the study of the interactions between phytic P and Ca when using phytase, and highlighted the negative impact of Ca on P absorption despite its necessity in the diet to deposit P into bone. Dr. Létourneau Montminy earned her Ph.D. from Laval University and AgroParisTech followed by a 3-yr post-doc. She was recruited directly into a full professorship at Laval University and rewarded their confidence soon after with a Canada Research Chair Tier 2. She has published 138 referred papers, presented invited lectures throughout North America and Europe. She has trained 24 Ph.D. and 22 M.Sc. students. Dr. Létourneau Montminy her colleagues have recruited $24 million in research funding.

Presentation Details
Title: Precision calcium and phosphorus nutrition in pigs and poultry
Session: Nonruminant Nutrition I
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 8:00–8:30 AM
Room: Great Hall 5

H. Allen Tucker Appreciation Club Graduate Student Travel Scholarship

Sponsored by: H. Allen Tucker Appreciation Club: Graduate Student Travel to Annual Meeting

Taylor Sidney, West Virginia State University

Taylor Sidney is a Ph.D. candidate in the School of Agriculture and Food Systems at West Virginia University. She began her academic journey at WVU in 2017, earning a B.S. in Animal and Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Equine Science. She went on to complete an M.S. in Animal Physiology, also at WVU. For her doctoral research, Taylor is at the forefront of cattle production and rumen microbiome studies, utilizing advanced sequencing and omics-based techniques to explore how the functional and microbial composition of the rumen influences feed efficiency in cattle. Her work is deeply rooted in advancing sustainable practices within the beef cattle industry while promoting ruminant health and well-being. A dedicated young scholar, Taylor has authored or co-authored 21 research publications and 12 research abstracts, demonstrating her strong commitment to advancing the field of animal science.

Presentation Details
Title: Exploring the Ruminal Microbiome of Beef Cattle with Divergent Feed Efficiency
Session: Ruminant Nutrition II: Feeding Studies II
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025 
Time: 2:00–2:30 PM
Room: Great Hall 3

Innovation in Animal Breeding and Genetics Award

Sponsored by: American Society of Animal Science

John B. Cole, Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding

Dr. John B. Cole is an accomplished scientist specializing in animal genetics and dairy science. His extensive career spans roles in research, academia, and industry leadership, such as Chief R&D Officer at the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding, as well as senior positions with the USDA and URUS Group. Dr. Cole's work has secured significant extramural funding, led to numerous high-impact publications, and earned prestigious accolades, including the J.L-Lush Award and recognition for highly cited research. His expertise encompasses genomic selection, genetic diversity, detection and management of detrimental homozygosity, cattle fertility, and health trait improvement. With a robust portfolio of teaching, mentoring, and community service, he is a recognized leader in advancing sustainable and innovative practices in livestock genetics and a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.

Presentation Details
Title: From Genomics to Herd Improvement: Pioneering Strategies in Dairy Cattle Breeding
Session: Animal Breeding and Genetics III: Methods in Genetic and Genomic Evaluations
Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Time: 8:30–9:00 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 1

Joseph P. Fontenot Travel Scholarship Award

Sponsored by: Joseph P. Fontenot Appreciation Club

Arnaldo C. Limede, Virginia Tech University

Arnaldo Cintra Limede is a Ph.D. student in the School of Animal Sciences at Virginia Tech, specializing in ruminant nutrition. His research focuses on innovative technologies for feedlot receiving programs, feed additives, immunity, and fetal programming. Originally from São Paulo State, Brazil, Arnaldo holds a B.S. in Agronomy Engineering from Mato Grosso do Sul State University and a Master’s degree in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of São Paulo. From 2020 to 2023, he worked as a National Feedlot Technical Consultant at Premix Animal Nutrition. In 2023, he served as a Research Scholar Assistant at Montana State University before beginning his Ph.D. studies at Virginia Tech in 2024. Arnaldo has authored or co-authored 22 scientific papers, 18 abstracts, and 4 book chapters, reflecting his dedication to advancing the field of animal science.

Presentation Details
Title: Bacillus-Based Direct-Fed Microbials as a Strategic Tool in Beef Cattle Production
Session: Ruminant Nutrition II: Feeding Studies II
Date: Monday, July 7, 2025
Time: 3:30–4:00 PM
Room: Great Hall 3

Meats Research Award

Brad Kim, Purdue University

Dr. Brad Kim is a Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at Purdue University. Dr. Kim received M.S. from Kansas State University, and Ph.D. from Texas A&M University specializing in muscle biochemistry and meat processing. After his postdoc training at Iowa State University, he worked at AgResearch, New Zealand as a Senior Scientist. Dr. Kim leads the Meat Science and Muscle Biology research program at Purdue University, focusing on identifying key biochemical mechanisms governing meat quality and developing systematic post-harvest strategies to improve meat quality attributes. He has published numerous articles including more than 115 peer-reviewed articles, 6 book chapters, 4 patents, and 115 proceedings, technical reports, and abstracts. Dr. Kim has been successful in acquiring research grants of over $4.8 million as a PI, including multiple USDA-NIFA awards. He received the 2018 Outstanding Young Researcher Award (Midwest ASAS) and Distinguished Achievement Award from AMSA.

Presentation Details
Title: Developing a smart-aging strategy to improve meat quality and value
Session: Meat Science and Muscle Biology
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 3:15–3:45 PM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 2

Morrison Award

Sponsored by: F.B. Morrison Fund

Harvey Freetly

Dr. Freetly received a M.S in Animal Science and a Ph.D. in Nutrition from the University of California–Davis and, joined the USDA, ARS, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, in 1990.  He became Research Leader of the Nutrition Research Unit in 2009, and subsequently Research Leader of Nutrition, Growth, and Physiology Research Unit.  He served on the ASAS Board of Directors.  He received the ASAS American Feed Industry Association Award in Ruminant Nutrition Research and is an ASAS Fellow.  His research focus has been defining nutrient utilization by female ruminants and development of replacement females.  His research has included 1) energetics and intermediary metabolism of pregnancy, lactation, and growth, 2) nutrition-reproduction interactions 3) alimentary track microbiology, and 4) genetics and genomics of feed efficiency.

President's International Award

Sponsored by: James Sartin Appreciation Club

Andrea Rosati, European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP)

Andrea Rosati is a distinguished expert in animal science, with a career spanning over three decades in European and global organisations. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Perugia, followed by a Master’s in Animal Genetics and a PhD in Biometry and Animal Genetics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Early in his career, he worked at the Italian Animal Breeders Organisation (AIA), managing national animal performance recordings and genetic evaluations. He also held academic positions, teaching statistics at the universities of Bologna and Camerino.

Rosati has held significant leadership roles, including General Manager of the European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP), the World Association for Animal Production (WAAP), and the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR). At ICAR, he oversaw global standards for animal identification, performance recording, and genetic evaluations. He has also coordinated 2 EU-funded research projects and participated in over 20 others, delivering lectures in more than 40 countries on animal production, sustainability, and agricultural development.

A prolific contributor to scientific literature, Rosati co-founded four international scientific journals, authored numerous articles, and co-authored two books. His daily responsibilities include organising international conferences, webinars, and workshops, managing scientific publications, and promoting animal science dissemination. He is also a strong advocate for agricultural research within EU institutions and a consultant focused on enhancing efficiency in large-scale animal farming.

Rosati’s global perspective on the livestock industry, extensive network of experts, and expertise in agricultural innovation make him a sought-after lecturer and strategic advisor. His scientific background and leadership roles uniquely position him to drive advancements in the sector, with a focus on future technologies and sustainable development.

Wettemann Graduate Scholar in Physiology Award

Sponsored by: Robert Wettemann Appreciation Club

Vinicius de Souza Izquierdo, University of Florida

Vinicius de Souza Izquierdo earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil, in 2019, followed by a Master of Science in Beef Cattle Nutrition and Reproduction from the same institution in 2021. In July 2021, he joined the beef cattle research and extension group led by Dr. Philipe Moriel at the University of Florida's Range Cattle Research and Education Center (Ona, FL), first as a Research Scholar (July 2021–January 2022) and later as a Ph.D. student starting in May 2022. His research focuses on nutritional and management strategies to mitigate heat stress and enhance the performance of grazing Bos indicus-influenced beef cattle in tropical and subtropical regions, as well as the effects on offspring growth, health, and reproduction. During graduate school, Vinicius has authored or co-authored 11 peer-reviewed journal articles and 19 conference abstracts.

Presentation Details
Title: Is mitigating heat stress in beef cattle adapted to tropical/subtropical environments necessary?
Session: Physiology and Endocrinology III: Nutrition, Stress, and Fetal Programming
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 8:30–9:00 AM
Room: Diplomat Ballroom 5