Keith Dietzschold, CAFNR alum and director of the agriculture, food and natural resources section of Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), received the 2026 Mumford Award for Distinguished Service at CAFNR’s Celebration of Excellence April 23. Sponsored by the CAFNR Foundation, the Mumford is the college’s signature award and named for a ground-breaking former dean.

Dietzschold, B.S. Animal Husbandry ‘82 and M.S. Ag Ed ‘84, has been part of DESE since 2011, when he joined as a district supervisor and Missouri FFA Executive Secretary, moving to the director role in 2021. At DESE, he also serves as Missouri State FFA Advisor. Before joining DESE, he taught agriculture education at the high school and technical school level.  

“Keith Dietzschold exemplifies what it means to be a True Tiger,” said Bryan Garton, nominator and CAFNR’s senior associate dean and director of academic programs. “Since earning his degrees from the University of Missouri, he has supported our students, our programs and our Tigers in every arena. His decades‑long commitment to the university reflects a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the education and opportunities he received here.” 

He is active in the National FFA Organization, serving on the Board of Directors from 2023 to 2025; Missouri Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association (MVATA); and the National Association for Agriculture Educators (NAAE). Dietzschold is a member of CAFNR’s Agricultural Education and Leadership Advisory Council and the Litton Agri-Science Learning Center Advisory Board, among many community affiliations.  

“Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than 40 years, Keith has been a tireless advocate for agricultural education and youth development. Whether serving as a classroom teacher, an FFA advisor or in statewide leadership roles, he has consistently prioritized students, ensuring they have access to meaningful, high‑quality learning opportunities,” Garton said. 

Dietzschold has received awards for teaching, service, achievement and much more, including the National FFA VIP Citation; Missouri State Fair Friend of the Fair Award; and NAAE Regional IV Lifetime Achievement Award.  

The Mumford Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals whose actions, leadership and integrity advance the mission of CAFNR. Garton stated: “Keith Dietzschold is richly deserving of this honor. His lifelong dedication to agriculture, education and service embodies the excellence and spirit this award represents.”