Texas A&M Poultry Science Advisory Board

The newly established Department of Poultry Science Advisory Board is a cohort of stakeholders who have a shared vision of advancing the department and providing guidance on new initiatives to support department growth and success.

The board convened for its inaugural meeting on April 30th, 2024.

Department Head, Audrey McElroy, Ph.D., opened the meeting with a general overview of the department highlighting faculty and research metrics, student metrics, current undergraduate curriculum and programs, student achievements, and department partners. Jeff Savell, Ph.D., Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences shared insight into college initiatives that directly support the poultry science department, including the new meat science building that is to include a state-of-the-art poultry processing facility.

Lesley Gleason, Program Manager, and Ally Spears, Program Coordinator II, shared insight into undergraduate recruitment, retention, and professional development activities. It was emphasized that these efforts are reflecting all-time high undergraduate admissions.

Dr. McElroy identified four major departmental initiatives that are currently underway:
• Continued recruitment of top-tier students, faculty, and staff
• Facility improvements to support the expansion of research, student coursework, and outreach programs
• Increased student funding to further support high-impact experiences, such as study abroad and professional development opportunities
• Improved department recognition and stakeholder relations

The creation of the Advisory Board is the next step in Dr. McElroy's vision for positioning the department as a worldwide leader in poultry science research, education, and outreach. Strengthened collaboration and relationships with stakeholders will help advance the department's strategic plan and result in improved achievements toward the land grant mission.