Scott Brown, research assistant professor, agricultural and applied economics, and Trista Strauch, assistant teaching professor of animal science and fisheries and wildlife sciences, received the MU Excellence in Education Award on April 16.

The award recognizes 10 MU educators each year who support and value co-curricular learning. The Division of Student Affairs developed the award to recognize the importance of student learning and success through interaction with faculty and staff outside the classroom.  Members of the campus community were asked to nominate those faculty, academic administrators, and staff who have demonstrated a commitment to student learning and personal development.

Scott Brown with students Amanda Schebaum, Rebecca White, Nicholas Jain, Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, Emily Brundick and Beth Nordwald

Brown is the co-advisor for the Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter. Seven years ago, Brown started an agricultural policy class that takes students to Washington, D.C., where they get a chance to meet with leaders and get real experience with issues in agriculture. Brown also helps students connect with current CAFNR alums employed in Washington, D.C., to help locate jobs and internships.

“I am honored to be recognized for things I am supposed to be doing day-to-day,” Brown said. “It is important to enhance student’s time at MU through involvement beyond the classroom.”

Brown grew up on a diversified farm in Holt County, Mo. He received his B.S. from Northwest State University and came to Columbia in 1987 to work on his Master’s and Ph.D. He has been with MU ever since. He lives outside Columbia with his wife Julie, and sons, Michael and Mark.

Trista Strauch

Strauch works with students required to do an internship and helps them through the process. She also teaches an on-location class to help students gain hands-on experience. Strauch advises approximately 55 students in animal sciences and coordinates the captive wild animal management minor.

“My favorite part of my job is advising, because of the personal relationship and ability to feel like you’ve helped students succeed,” Strauch said. “I also love teaching and the moments when students really understand what’s going on and are able to apply it.”

Strauch grew up in Hamburg, Ill., and originally came to MU to be a journalism student. She switched to animal sciences after her freshman year. She completed her master’s in ruminant nutrition and reproductive technology and Ph.D. in physiology of reproduction at Texas A&M. Strauch returned to MU as a research scientist and became a teacher soon after. Strauch, and husband Tim Safranski, have four sons: Carson, Casper, Cooper and Carver.

The Division of Student Affairs sponsored an Excellence in Education Awards Reception April 16, in the Great Room of the Reynolds Alumni Center.