Charlie Lewis, an environmental sciences major, was named Outstanding Freshman at CAFNR’s 2024 Celebration of Excellence awards ceremony, held Tuesday, April 16.  

Lewis is an active member of the National FFA Organization, where he originally found his passion for soil science that led him to CAFNR and environmental sciences with an emphasis in land and soil. He previously served as an Agricultural Education on the Move Educator and has continued to help with the program during his time at Mizzou.  

Since coming to the University of Missouri, Lewis has joined Mizzou Collegiate Farm Bureau, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, and has been selected as a CAFNR Ambassador.  

“As a new ambassador, Charlie does an outstanding job at building a personal connection with new families,” said Kathleen Matz, CAFNR director of student Recruitment and events. “I know Charlie is one I can rely on, and I have since asked Charlie to bring that same inspirational impact with paneling at CAFNR overviews and helping with high school group visits. Each time he is eager to step up and help, without hesitation. Charlie routinely exhibits this ‘can do’ attitude and a passion for helping and serving others.”