Crosswhite wins USDA Excellence in College and University Teaching Award for Food and Agricultural Sciences
Thursday, January 22, 2026
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Mellissa Crosswhite was named a national recipient of the United States Department of Agriculture’s Excellence in College and University Teaching Award for Food and Agricultural Sciences.
Crosswhite, assistant professor in the Ferguson College of Agriculture’sDepartment of Animal and Food Sciences, received recognition in the national Teaching and Student Engagement category.
“Teaching is something I pour my heart into every day, so to have that effort recognized is both humbling and inspiring,” Crosswhite said. “For me, this award isn’t just about personal achievement; it reflects the hard work and curiosity of my students and the support of my colleagues.”
The national recognition is a partnership between the USDA and the Association of Public Land-grant Universities, awarded to faculty members from public institutions in the U.S. for excellence in agricultural sciences.
“What truly sets Dr. Crosswhite apart is her student-centered approach to teaching,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean for academic programs. “She understands that all students learn differently and intentionally uses a variety of strategies and technologies to create an engaging, effective learning environment. She goes beyond the classroom by connecting students with the resources they need to succeed and helping guide them toward fulfilling career paths.”
Over eight years at OSU, Crosswhite has taught five courses, developing all materials and curricula. She prioritizes hands-on learning, passing out different bones in class to identify skeletal system terms and an activity named “What’s in the Box,” allowing students to touch course-related items, allowing them to relate the sense of touch to muscle contraction and brain function.
Crosswhite’s Form and Functions class includes a lab component, and through a partnership with the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center, she collects organs for students to dissect and examine.
Her approach has resulted in enhanced learning and engagement in her classes.
“I believe students learn best when they feel connected to the material and to the instructor,” Crosswhite said. “I try to create an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and every student’s learning is important.”
Crosswhite’s teaching philosophy centers on helping students find their passions, challenge themselves, and develop critical thinking skills. She doesn’t rely solely on lecture-based teaching; instead, she promotes a hands-on environment to help make concepts more relatable to students.
One of Crosswhite’s passions is watching students grow, not just academically, but personally, she said. Her courses span from teaching freshmen to graduate students, allowing her to work alongside students for years in the department.
Some of her favorite moments are when past students return to visit or share significant milestones in their lives, she said.
“I make a point to know my students individually, hopefully understanding their goals and challenges, which helps me tailor my approach and keep them engaged,” Crosswhite said. “My goal is always to spark that moment when the concept clicks, and they feel confident and excited about learning.”