Abit named Ferguson College of Agriculture orange gown honoree

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Media Contact: Sophia Fahleson | Digital Communications Specialist | 405-744-7063 | sophia.fahleson@okstate.edu

André Abit is the Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture orange gown recipient for the fall 2023 semester. Abit will wear the distinguished orange gown and represent the Ferguson College as its gonfalon carrier during commencement ceremonies in Stillwater on Dec. 16.

Each semester one graduating student from each academic college is chosen to wear the orange cap and gown at commencement based on their achievements, college involvement and academic success.

Abit will receive a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology. He is from Stillwater, Oklahoma, and is the son of Sergio and Pamela Abit.

“André has made a noticeable impact during his time in the Ferguson College,” said Cynda Clary, Ferguson College of Agriculture, associate dean. “Not only is he an excellent student, but also a humble leader who has dedicated his time to serving the college, university and his fellow students.”

While in the Ferguson College, Abit was a Student Academic Mentor for the Freshmen in Transition Living Learning Program, served on the Academic Integrity Panel as a student representative, and was a member of the Student Government Association and the Biochemistry Club. Abit also participated in the Cowboy Cousins mentor program, which helps international students adjust to campus life and culture.   

“In the Ferguson College, I’ve had many opportunities to develop my skills in academics, research, leadership and service,” Abit said. “I came to the college for my major, but I stayed because I knew the Ferguson College creates an environment that really allows students to blossom into who they want to become.”

In addition to his involvement and service, Abit was active in undergraduate research and presented his work at the Niblack Research Symposium, the Students of Agronomy, Soils and Environmental Sciences National Conference and the OSU Undergraduate Research Symposium. Abit also worked as an undergraduate researcher in the OSU Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

After graduation, Abit plans to attend medical school and said he looks forward to a career serving others as a physician.

“Knowing others have seen the importance and value of what I’ve done in college has solidified what I want to do in the future. It’s taught me that a life of service is a life worth living, and it’s a life I want to do,” Abit said. “Wearing the orange gown at graduation is not just a huge honor to me, but to those who have helped me get to where I am today.”