Posted: March 14, 2018
Club was first in the nation for Chapter Year Book and Club Scrap Book; Amy Middleton was named outstanding senior in the nation.
From left: Shelby Dean, New Castle; Dr. Kniffen; and Chandlar Kern, Cassville.
Penn State's Block and Bridle Club was recognized as first in the nation for Chapter Year Book and Club Scrap Book at the 98th National Block and Bridle Convention held March 1-4 in Orlando, Florida, hosted by the University of Florida.
Amy Middleton, Mill Hall, was named the outstanding senior in the nation. It follows last year's recognition for Middleton as the Outstanding Junior in the nation.
The club was second in the country for Club Activities and Club Web Page.
There were 364 students from approximately 30 schools attending the convention; two Penn State students participated.
Dr. Terry Etherton, Head of the Department of Animal Science, said, "I extend my congratulations to all the members of the Block and Bridle Club and their advisors for this outstanding national recognition. It is to their credit that they consistently rank among the best in the nation. And, I offer special congratulations to Amy for the honor of being named best in the nation in two successive years."
Daniel Kniffen, Ph.D., one of the club's advisors, said, "Our students provide outstanding leadership within our Department and in the College and are very deserving of this national recognition. The national meeting offers a unique opportunity for networking with leaders within the industry and with other students from around the country."
In addition to the meetings of the national organization, club members selected one of nine tours to explore Florida's Agriculture. A variety of equine facilities, several cattle ranches or Disney Land food service were just a few of the visits available to students in Florida. Penn State students selected one beef tour and learned much more about the state's thriving beef industry. The theme for this year's convention was "Production in the Palms."
The National Block and Bridle Club is a collegiate organization with 92 chapters across the United States with the purpose of promoting animal agriculture and developing professional and leadership skills in members.
The trip was made possible with partial funding provided by the Office of Undergraduate Education.
