Shear receives Ferguson College of Agriculture Early Career Excellence in Teaching Award

Monday, June 17, 2024

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

Hannah Shear, assistant professor in the Oklahoma State University Department of Agricultural Economics, is the recipient of the 2024 Ferguson College of Agriculture Early Career Award for Excellence in Teaching. Shear was recognized in April at the annual Ferguson College Scholarships and Awards Banquet.

Shear has been a faculty member in the Ferguson College since 2021, teaching Introduction to Agricultural Economics, Farm and Agribusiness Management, Domestic Agricultural Production Tours and more. Students enrolled in her courses come from a variety of academic disciplines in the college.

Cheryl DeVuyst, agricultural economics department head, describes Shear as a driven and enthusiastic educator.

“Dr. Shear’s ability to engage students is remarkable,” DeVuyst said. “She has a combination of intellect, humor, compassion and real-world experiences that translate into incredibly effective classroom teaching.”

A component of Shear’s teaching philosophy is relating to students beyond her role as an assistant professor. She said she shares her own experiences in agricultural economics and agribusiness to help students connect coursework to the diverse agricultural operations they come from.  

“When my students have a better understanding of who I am and what I do beyond the classroom, they can relate to me and, eventually, the course material,” Shear said. “They are more likely to remember the concepts and see similar applications in their own lives.”

Shear said she prioritizes connecting with students and structuring her courses to meet their needs.

“Dr. Shear has made a positive impact on students in the Ferguson College,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean of the Ferguson College of Agriculture. “She creates a welcoming environment in the classroom by building relationships with students and delivering lessons that enhance their engagement and learning.”  

In addition to teaching, Shear advises and mentors undergraduate and graduate students. She also is the advisor for the Aggie-X Club and coach for the Aggie-X Quiz Bowl Team.

“The extracurriculars that I get to lead allow me to interact with students and create learning opportunities for them outside of the classroom,” Shear said.

Shear’s favorite aspects of her career are seeing students grow and helping them navigate through challenges and successes in college.

“Ferguson College students are determined to get the most out of what they can by being here, and I’ve enjoyed seeing such a large student body be so invested in their college,” Shear said.