Monty Christian, a new member of Texas Tech University's College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources Advisory Board, has accepted a half-time appointment with the Texas Tech Office of Research & Innovation, officials announced today (Jun. 10). Christian recently retired from BASF after a long and distinguished career in agricultural innovation.

“Monty has a wealth of innovative ideas and can provide constructive feedback and bring fresh ideas to our research programs,” said Joe Heppert, Texas Tech Vice President for Research & Innovation. “He'll collaborate with Texas Tech faculty on strategic planning to expand federal and private sector funding for agricultural research, soil and water conservation, and the commercialization of agricultural technologies.”

Tech's Office of Research & Innovation facilitates excellent research, scholarship, and creative activities for all and promotes an academic environment embracing curiosity, innovation, debate, diversity, ethics and integrity. In addition, it supports responsible and safe conduct of research, faculty development and recognition, interdisciplinary collaborations, externally sponsored research, partnerships with industry and community and application of research for the benefit of society.

Last year Christian retired, concluding a 38-year career in agri-business. Over the course of his long career, he worked with a strong focus on connectivity and innovation throughout his tenure with several companies, concluding with BASF as the Vice President of Global Cotton Seeds. He was with Bayer CropScience for more than 15 years, serving in different roles including Marketing Director for Cotton and U.S. Vice President of Commercial Cotton Seeds & Traits. 

Christian comes from a farming/ranching background in Kansas, and earned his bachelor's degree and master's degree from New Mexico State University. 

CASNR's Advisory Board is comprised of 22 members who represent the college's departments, along with the college's development and alumni relations office, said CASNR Interim Dean Cindy Akers.  While members come from varied backgrounds, all share a desire to serve the college and to further the aims and goals of the departments. This, in turn, is expected to improve the resources available to CASNR and its students, she said. 

CONTACT: Cindy Akers, Interim Dean, College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or cindy.akers@ttu.edu

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