Coe named Ferguson College of Agriculture Outstanding Senior
Monday, March 29, 2021
Seraiah Coe from McKinney, Texas, was recently named Oklahoma State University’s Ferguson College of Agriculture 2021 Louis and Betty Gardner Outstanding Senior.
Coe is earning two degrees from OSU: a natural resource ecology and management degree from the Ferguson College of Agriculture and a biology degree with a minor in zoology in the College of Arts and Sciences. She is a 2017 graduate of McKinney Boyd High School and is the daughter of Diane Mabeley and Rodney Coe.
The Louis and Betty Gardner Outstanding Senior Award is the highest award given to a senior in the Ferguson College of Agriculture. The Outstanding Senior receives a bronze sculpture and a scholarship. In addition, the Outstanding Senior represents the Ferguson College of Agriculture by wearing an orange cap and gown as the college gonfalon carrier at commencement. Coe will participate in this tradition during the Class of 2021 graduation ceremonies in Stillwater on May 8. The award is supported by an endowment established by Brett and Kent Gardner, both previous recipients of the award, in honor of their parents, Louis and Betty.
During her time as an undergraduate student, Coe has served the Ferguson College of Agriculture and OSU in various capacities. At the college level, Coe has served for two years as president of the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences. She was also a member of the Ferguson College Multicultural Programs Leaders team and a peer tutor in the college’s Study and Snacks program. At the university level, she was the founder of the Red Pantry Committee, was active in undergraduate research, and completed an impressive amount of community service hours.
“When I came to Oklahoma State University, I was ecstatic to begin a new stage in my life,” Coe said. “I was determined to strive for my absolute best in everything I did. As I delved into my courses during my first year, my interest in my studies grew exponentially; however, I did not believe that education above a bachelor’s would be something I could strive towards. This changed when I discovered my enthusiasm for research, through which I have been able to explore a new path for my life.”
Coe’s commitment to research, academics and community service has earned her countless recognitions for her work. Coe has been selected as an OSU Outstanding Senior, recipient of the Housing and Residential Life Commitment to Advocacy Award, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society. She was also selected as a Women for OSU Scholar, a Mortar Board Top Ten Freshman Woman and a McKnight Leader Scholar.
“To put it simply, Seraiah is an inspiration,” said Cynda Clary, Ferguson College of Agriculture associate dean of academic programs. “She is an intelligent, accomplished student and a published researcher, but above all else she has a heart for service and for making a difference in other’s lives. She has worked tirelessly to be a voice for others and to help create programs that meet the specific needs of students in areas that are very difficult to talk about. I am so proud of everything she has accomplished and grateful for the many ways she has impacted our college and OSU.”
MEDIA CONTACT: Samantha Siler | Agricultural Communications Services | 405-744-2977 | samantha.siler@okstate.edu
The Ferguson College of Agriculture believes in the value of hands-on education and the importance of having a well-rounded student experience. The college’s award-winning faculty members are dedicated to developing students and are passionate about adding value to the total educational experience. With a diverse set of majors and study options, plus more than 60 student organizations, the college is committed to expanding minds and inspiring purpose.