Setting the standard: Ferguson College of Agriculture recognizes 2025 Outstanding Senior
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Media Contact: Sophia Fahleson | Digital Communications Specialist | 405-744-7063 | sophia.fahleson@okstate.edu
Sometimes, an award is more than just an honor. It represents excellence, determination and core values.
The 2025 Louis and Betty Gardner Outstanding Senior Award for the Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture is no exception.
This year, Jared Stone stands out among his peers as he leaves his final mark on OSU and the Ferguson College of Agriculture.
Growing up in Chandler, Oklahoma, Stone found a love for agriculture and service to others at a young age. Spending more time in the barn than his home, he grew up raising sheep, cattle and chickens, along with growing pecans and small grains on his family’s farm, Stone said.
He was involved in 4-H and FFA, serving as the Northeast District 4-H president and president of his FFA chapter twice.
Not only did Stone channel the same energy into his college career, but also he exceeded his own expectations, he said.
“Very early in my college career, I discovered the coursework and workload was more demanding than high school,” Stone said. “Adjusting to this change, I found myself learning how to manage my time between clubs, studying and homework.
“I utilized services from the college like Study and Snacks in the Hilst Center for Student Success to help me through the tougher classes,” he added.
Stone found the services helpful as a student, he said, and decided to help others in the same way. He was selected as a Ferguson College of Agriculture Career Liaison in 2022 and helped host events for students looking to develop their professional skills.
When it comes to selecting the college’s outstanding senior, the task is difficult for the team, said Cynda Clary, associate dean of the Ferguson College of Agriculture.
“Jared’s authenticity is what stood out to me most,” Clary added. “He has provided a level of contribution to the college that is unique. He focuses on other students’ goals, helping them to be their best. He makes it about them, not himself.”
During his four years, Stone participated in countless research and creative activities, he said, one being Cowboy Motorsports, where he led a team in designing, building, and testing a $20,000 tractor.
In addition, he fulfilled leadership roles, dedicated hours to community service efforts, and received awards and honors.
“Jared is an excellent student,” said John Michael Riley, OSU agricultural economics associate professor and Stone’s academic adviser. “This recognition comes as no surprise, given his diligent efforts in and out of the classroom, and serves as a testament to the kind of success our college cultivates.”
In addition to the hours Stone served in the Ferguson College of Agriculture, he also worked at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. His role put him alongside pathologists to help diagnose disease and animal health issues across Oklahoma and throughout the nation, Stone said.
During his time at the OADDL, he gained crucial skills for a career in animal medicine, he added.
“From the beginning, his eagerness to learn and willingness to help stood out,” said Emily Cooper, OADDL assistant director and quality manager. “In a role where strict adherence to protocols is essential, Jared quickly proved he could reliably handle tasks with minimal supervision. He communicates professionally and compassionately with clients, has a strong work ethic and has natural leadership skills.
“Simply put, Jared is a great young man with an exceptionally bright future,” Cooper added.
Stone graduated with dual bachelor’s degrees in animal science and agribusiness with a minor in microbiology on May 10, 2025.
“My time in the Ferguson College of Agriculture has provided me with the opportunities, knowledge, and skills necessary for me to be successful and impactful in the agricultural industry,” Stone said. “For that, I am thankful.”
After graduation, Stone plans to attend OSU College of Veterinary Medicine to study food animal medicine and pursue mixed animal medicine in rural Oklahoma, he said.
“One word to describe Jared Stone would be solid,” Clary added. “He is humble, kind, smart, hardworking, ethical and dependable, all wrapped up in one. He has the ability to make others feel welcomed in his presence, and that’s special.”
Story by Emma Menefee | Cowboy Journal