What do you do in your current role with the University of Missouri? 

I am a Field Specialist in Livestock serving Ray, Saline, Livingston, Chariton, Carroll, and Lafayette counties. In my role I get to work with livestock operations of all species and sizes and help solve real-world challenges. Whether I’m teaching a grazing school, answering questions about forage management, exploring new technologies like virtual fencing, or assisting with herd improvement programs, my goal is to deliver practical, research-based information that helps producers succeed.

How long have you worked in this position?

I have been in this position for a little over a year and half starting in January 2025.

What is your favorite part about the work you do?

The best part of this role is building relationships with producers and developing meaningful educational programming to support their success.

How are you helping MU A&E Extension advance its reach and impact?

I advance MU Extension’s reach through one-on-one consultations, innovative programming, and partnerships that expand access to research-based information. One of my favorite parts of this role has been building relationships with producers across my coverage area. From troubleshooting low AI conception rates and formulating cost-effective diets to discussing cover crop grazing strategies and data-driven heifer development, every phone call and farm visit brings a new opportunity to help solve real-world challenges. Program development is another highlight of my work. One of my favorite projects was a webinar series on virtual fencing that we developed in partnership with the Center for Regenerative Agriculture. The response was tremendous, and we’re excited to bring the series back in 2027. No matter the topic, my goal is to turn research into practical tools that help producers improve profitability, stewardship, and long-term success.

What is something your CAFNR and MU Extension teammates may not know about you?

My husband and I are expecting our first child in late September.

What is your hometown, place of high school graduation, and degrees/universities?

I grew up in rural Carroll County on a diversified row crop and beef cattle operation. After graduating high school from Braymer C-4 I went to Mizzou and pursued a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences with a minor in Plant Science. I then attended the University of Nebraska at Lincoln to receive my pasters in Animal Science with a specialization in Ruminant Nutrition.