Lusk receives prestigious Farm Foundation award

Monday, June 24, 2024

Media Contact: Mandy Gross | Sr. Manager of Strategic and VP Communications | 405-744-4063 | mandy.gross@okstate.edu

The Farm Foundation named Jayson Lusk, vice president and dean of Oklahoma State University Agriculture, the 2024 recipient of the R.J. Hildreth Public Policy Award.

Since the mid-1990s, the R.J. Hildreth Public Policy Award has recognized career achievement in government service, education or agricultural policy research. The award is given to individuals who embody the mission and vision of the Farm Foundation and have made a significant impact on policy or education through their research.

“I’m honored to be part of such a prestigious group of individuals presented with the R.J. Hildreth Public Policy Award,” Lusk said. “I hold the Farm Foundation in high regard. I’m pleased to see the organization recognize individuals who are involved in not only ag policy but also food policy.”

Lusk received a bachelor’s degree in food science and technology from Texas Tech University, where he discovered his passion for food policy, and later pursued a doctorate in agricultural economics at Kansas State University.

Lusk’s research surrounding food policy, emerging food issues, consumer behaviors and more has set him apart as a leader in the industry. He has published more than 270 articles and authored six books.

His research focuses on what people eat and why they eat it. Lusk’s research is beneficial to both the scientific community and the public for bringing a positive light to the importance of science, technology and entrepreneurship in the food and agricultural industry.

Before beginning his role as the vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture in July 2023, Lusk served Purdue University as a distinguished professor and head of the Agricultural Economics Department for six years. From 2005-17, Lusk worked at OSU as an agricultural economics professor, Willard Sparks Endowed Chair and later as a regents professor.

Lusk accepted the award at the Farm Foundation Round Table Chairman’s Dinner in Broomfield, Colorado, on June 20.

Trey Malone, assistant professor in agricultural economics and agribusiness at the University of Arkansas, nominated Lusk for the esteemed award.

“Dr. Jayson Lusk exemplifies the spirit of the R.J. Hildreth Award through his impactful research, policy engagement and mentorship,” Malone said. “I can think of no one more deserving of this honor.”

The Farm Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to build trust and understanding at the intersections of agriculture and society. They work across the food and agricultural industries to find practical solutions for major challenges they are facing.

Story By: Ainsley Treesh | ainsley.treesh@okstate.edu