Riley receives Ferguson College Excellence in Undergraduate Advising and Mentoring Award
Monday, July 21, 2025
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Dr. John Michael Riley is the 2025 recipient of the Ferguson College of Agriculture’s Excellence in Undergraduate Advising and Mentoring Award.
Riley, associate professor in the OSU Department of Agricultural Economics, teaches courses including Commodity Futures Markets and Agricultural Marketing and Price Analysis. He also teaches a section of OSU’s freshman seminar course, where he helps connect students to campus resources and adjust to college life.
In addition to teaching, Riley is the agricultural economics department’s undergraduate advising coordinator and actively mentors fellow faculty on advising strategies to support student success.
Riley’s mentoring philosophy focuses on meeting students where they are, providing guidance early in their academic journeys and gradually building their self-confidence to take charge of their education.
“It’s important to encourage students to take ownership of their academic decisions,” Riley said. “I strive to provide relevant information, opportunities and networks to ensure they have the tools to excel and achieve their academic, career and life goals.”
Outside the classroom, Riley guides undergraduate research projects and co-advises the Aggie-X Club, a role in which he facilitates professional development tours to agricultural businesses and invites industry speakers to share career insights with students.
“Dr. Riley is dedicated to preparing students for success through meaningful experiences in and out of the classroom,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean of academic programs. “He inspires them to achieve beyond their expectations, and it is a privilege to honor him with this award.”
Joining the Ferguson College faculty in 2015, Riley quickly became a favorite among students, said Dr. Cheryl DeVuyst, agricultural economics department head.
“Students see Dr. Riley as innovative, challenging and effective in the classroom,” DeVuyst said. “He is knowledgeable, encouraging and someone students trust for guidance.”
Riley believes advisors play a crucial role in empowering students, he said.
“Advising and mentoring have allowed me to create a transformative learning experience for each student,” he said. “I aim to be an inspiring advisor and advocate, encouraging students to become independent, eager and self-directed learners.”