AMES, Iowa – Christen Burgett, an Iowa State University associate teaching professor in animal science, received the Outstanding Young Teacher award from the American Society of Animal Science and the American Dairy Science Association at the 2020 Midwest Joint Meeting in Omaha.
Burgett began teaching and advising students in animal science at Iowa State in the fall of 2012. Her guidance and encouragement have helped students successfully pursue academic and career goals. Along with teaching, she coordinates the animal science internship program, co-advises the 130-member Dairy Science Club and coaches the dairy judging team.
“It was an honor to receive this award,” Burgett said, “but the real honor is working with students and helping them achieve their goals.”
Carley Krull, a senior in dairy science, said Burgett is knowledgeable about the dairy industry and dairy cattle. Krull said Burgett engages students and it’s reflected in how she relates with students.
“In the classroom, students are smiling, laughing, but most importantly learning,” Krull said. “Mrs. Burgett actively searches for new ways to ensure students are absorbing the valuable lessons she is teaching.”
Burgett’s interest in dairy cattle began when she started showing cattle in the sixth grade. She grew up in Bismarck and received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science from North Dakota State University. Along with her teaching and advising she raises Polypay sheep with her husband, Russell, and their son, Noah.