Brian Hornbuckle, professor in agronomy, is the recipient of the faculty 2024 Outstanding Achievement in Teaching Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. He has taught more than 5,000 students in four academic programs at Iowa State, both undergraduate and graduate level, and in large lectures, small graduate classes and immersive field courses. He has courtesy appointments in Iowa State’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Department of Geological and Atmospheric Sciences. In Hornbuckle’s classes, the main concepts are generally the basic physical principles that determine how matter and energy move within and among the soil, plant canopy and atmosphere.
Hornbuckle brings a diverse background in subject matter expertise to his position, including engineering, sciences and education. His teaching philosophy consists of two central tenets. The first is that all students have the ability to learn (given basic needs are met), and it is his mission to help all students realize their full potential. The second is that learning leads to better understanding of self, other people and the natural world, and ultimately to a sustainable society in which all are valued and all can experience love.
In the classroom, Hornbuckle makes the process of learning approachable and fun for students. “Dr. Hornbuckle’s teaching methods regularly include memorable, interactive demonstrations which connect somewhat abstract ideas to relatable, physical experiences that make concepts stick with students,” states a former student. This is all part of Hornbuckle’s unwavering dedication to student understanding and making sure that students have a fair and equitable learning experience.
Beyond the classroom, Hornbuckle has served on departmental and college-level committees that maintain the high quality of undergraduate and graduate programs for students. He also mentors graduate students in Iowa State’s Preparing Future Faculty program. “Professor Brian Hornbuckle’s work exemplifies all-around excellence in direct teaching of students as well as in service to students and academic programs across the university,” a colleague states.