In Profile: Rudy Ritz launches agricultural science career to next level
After spending 14 years as a high school agricultural science teacher, Rudy Ritz decided it was time for a change, and that change was moving to the collegiate level. Encouraged by Steve Fraze, head of Texas Tech's Department of Agricultural Education and Communications, the Meadow native began working on his doctorate at Tech in 2005.
Ritz is well past his original goal. He finished his degree two years ago and now is an assistant professor in Fraze's department. "Rudy brings a deep background in agricultural education to the department, especially in pre-service teaching preparation programs," Fraze said.
At Texas Tech, Ritz also teaches management of supervised agricultural experience programs, methods of technological change, and agricultural systems management labs. "This is a dream come true," Ritz said with a grin. "I had some great teaching experiences in some wonderful schools like Monterey, Menard and Ralls, but I was ready for a new challenge," Ritz said.
Growing up in Meadow, some 30 miles south-southwest of Texas Tech, Ritz was heavily involved in 4-H and FFA. "My high school agriscience teacher had a big influence on me," he said. "When I enrolled at Tech, I knew that was the degree I wanted to pursue."
Ritz, who had been a state 4-H vice president, was recruited heavily by both Texas Tech and Texas A&M. But in the end he chose Tech for his undergraduate degree because it was the best fit. A recipient of a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo scholarship, he saddled up for a full load of agriculture-related activities after arriving in the Hub City, including being an Ag Ambassador, along with serving as a member of Ag Council, Collegiate 4-H and Collegiate FFA.
Today, Ritz's teaching and research involves beginning agriscience teachers and professionals entering Texas AgriLife Extension. "Educating the public about agriculture is more important than ever," he said. "Plus, helping mold young professionals who'll educate and train youth is very fulfilling."
Awards for Ritz include Texas Tech Agricultural Education and Communications' Outstanding Doctoral Student (2008), and Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas' Agricultural Science Teacher Award for Teachers Working with Television Media (2004).
Written by Norman Martin
CONTACT: Rudy Ritz, assistant professor, Department of Agricultural Education and Communications, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2816 or rudy.ritz@ttu.edu
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