Having grown up on a wheat and beef cattle operation near Burlington, Oklahoma, animal agriculture has always held a special place in my heart. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and Master’s degree in animal science, both from Oklahoma State University, I went on to receive my Ph.D. in ruminant nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Supporting ASAS in perpetuity was a natural and important decision for Patty and me, as it has been an integral part of my life since graduate school.
With a passion for making a positive impact on the world, for animals and humans, my career was shaped by diverse experiences. These include serving as an Extension feedlot specialist at Kansas State University, working as a consulting nutritionist with Scott-Pro, Inc., and being part of the animal science faculty at Oklahoma State University. In 1981, I established Steve Armbruster Consulting, Inc., specializing in feedlot cattle nutrition and management. Alongside my consulting work, I have had the privilege of mentoring numerous undergraduate and graduate students, which is one of my most satisfying accomplishments.
Additionally, mentoring and education have always been at the center of Patty’s life. She studied elementary education at OSU, completed her degree at UNL, and was an elementary school teacher for many years. It brings us immense satisfaction knowing that we played a critical role in providing students, at all levels, with a clear vision and a sense of security for their endeavors. A goal of ours is to ensure all students, now and in the future, have strong mentors and leaders as they pursue their own careers, which is one reason we included ASAS in our estate plan.
Throughout my career, I have experienced the inestimable benefits of ASAS membership, and I want to ensure that others have the same privileges and opportunities. However, when I was asked to share the "story" of why we established a legacy gift, I found it difficult to express my thoughts meaningfully in writing.
In my search for the right words, I returned to the ASAS website, where I had previously reflected on the evolution, mission, and vision of our organization. It was there that Patty and I identified the Legacy Fund as our preference for supporting future programs and initiatives. In a moment of serendipity, I realized that ASAS tells the story far better than I can. If you want to understand my ardent belief in the work of the Society, I encourage you to visit the "About" section on the home page and read about its mission, vision, and strategic plan.
Furthermore, if you want to know why I am committed to ensuring a bright future for ASAS, then I invite you to explore the "Foundation" section on the website. Here, you can read about how the Foundation has transformed the lives of countless members and how charitable support contributes to their continued success.
If you are seeking to articulate your passion for ASAS and leave a lasting impact, perhaps this exercise will help you as it did me. It is with great pride that we are ASAS Foundation 1908 Society members. Together, we can share the journey and shape the future.
