“Branding Excellence” is a series highlighting students and faculty who perform at a high level of professionalism, are forward-thinking individuals, and always have the willingness to learn more. The series name is derived from the saying “Pursuing Excellence” which means setting ambitious goals and working tirelessly to achieve them, consistently performing at your best, bettering yourself and those around you, and staying resilient in the face of challenges. The Department of Animal & Food Sciences is dedicated to excellence in every aspect of its faculty, staff and students. The department wants to wear the “brand” of success as they address today’s challenges and create a better future for our world.
Wyatt Keeney, sophomore animal science student from Perrin, Texas, pictured his life to be much different than where he is now. After suffering a career ending injury during his sophomore year of high school, Keeney said that injury re-directed his vision for the future.
“When I was a freshman in high school, I was thinking I was going to play college baseball, but when I was a sophomore, I dislocated my shoulder and had several surgeries on it,” Keeney said. “My life took a 180.”
Keeney took interest in artificial insemination early in high school and obtained his Artificial Insemination Certification two weeks before his shoulder injury.
Keeney grew up around agriculture, raising commercial cows, and later transitioned to showing steers. His interest then shifted over to artificial insemination and reproductive work.
“I went to an AI class and started doing AI on all of our cows, and I fell in love with it,” Keeney said.
Keeney decided his junior year of high school that he wanted to come to Texas Tech to pursue a degree in animal science which has led him to being a part of clubs and teams including Block and Bridle, the 2023 National Champion Wool Judging Team, as well as the 2024-2025 Meat Judging Team.
“I have learned a lot from the wool judging and meat judging teams,” Keeney said. “Just being with each other and making relationships with each other and meeting more people will benefit me and I will use the things I have learned in everyday life after college.”
Although Keeney came to Texas Tech with the experience, he said his classes within the Department of Animal &Food Science have really defined his passion.
“The professors have really pushed my passion for AI genetics and embryology without even talking to them,” Keeney said. “Just being in their class talking about genetics kinda gets my mind going and the urge to further my knowledge in that specific area.”
In fact, because of Keeney’s decision to come to Texas Tech, he said his opportunities within the agriculture industry are endless.
“Davis College and AFS has brought me so many opportunities and experiences that I will never forget,” Keeney said. “From wool judging and being on the 2025 meats team to meeting new people and opening doors to my future in the agriculture industry.”
CONTACT: Chance Brooks, Professor and Chair, Department of Animal & Food Sciences, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 834-3517 or chance.brooks@ttu.edu
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