Name: Kaylynn Kiker; Major: Animal Science; Minor: Agribusiness; Classification: Junior; Organization: Agri-Techsans; Hometown: Allison, Texas; Month: March

Kaylynn Kiker, a junior animal science major from Allison, has been named Texas Tech's College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources March Agri-Techsan of the Month.

"This is my second year serving as an Agri-Techsan, which means I have been able to see many awesome student recruiters do their part in representing CASNR. To be awarded for my part in recruiting to Texas Tech CASNR means a tremendous amount to me."

After coming from a long line of Red Raiders, Kiker said she felt like coming to Texas Tech was the right thing to do. However, it wasn't until her first visit that she was immediately sold on the idea of getting her degree here at Texas Tech. Kiker grew up in Allison, a small rural community in the Texas Panhandle some 110 miles northeast of Amarillo, and has always had an appreciation for agriculture.

Kiker, who severed at this year's Texas Tech Ag Council President, said the family feel of CASNR is undeniable. With a passion for agriculture, the hands-on learning opportunities that have been presented to her as an animal science major are truly remarkable, Kiker said.

"I enjoy the fact that I have the ability to be so close to staff and faculty," she said. "It's remarkable that they care enough to know not only my name, but my aspirations and my goals. This has also given me the opportunity to be supported by the college on many academia inspired trips like Agriculture Future of America conference and National Cattleman Beef Association Conference."

Kiker's goal is to work for an animal health or nutrition company after graduation.

Shelbey Havens, CASNR's College Recruiter, said the Agri-Techsans organization does yeoman's work in promoting the college. The Agri-Techsans are the official student recruiters for CASNR. The undergraduates can come from every department and bring with them different backgrounds from rural areas to large metropolitan areas. In addition, Agri-Techsans give tours of the college's facilities, including the horticultural gardens and the meat laboratory on campus, as well as the research farm at New Deal, and the Texas Tech Equestrian Center in southwest Lubbock.

CONTACT: Shelbey Havens, College Recruiter, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or shelbey.havens@ttu.edu

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