Alumni Spotlights (Alumni)

Alumni of the College of Agricultural Sciences are making an impact from small towns to big cities, and everywhere in between. Through their time at Penn State and their diverse careers and personal pursuits, the college's graduates inspire the next generation of leaders in the agricultural sciences. Get to know some of the college's incredible graduates through Alumni Spotlights.

Andrew Hirneisen: Staying Engaged

March 31, 2025

"I love that we have a really engaged alumni network and such a great scholarship and awards program. Your time at Penn State doesn't end when you graduate. There are opportunities to stay engaged and stay involved."

Karen Cole: From Penn State Mont Alto to University Park to Public Service

March 7, 2025

"Helping people solve water quality problems is a privilege. I assist in connecting municipalities to financing and resources needed to improve water quality and lives, a position of public service, Penn State prepared me for."

Jennifer (Flinchbaugh) Beidel, Esq.: Family, Agriculture, and the Law

February 21, 2025

"It's good to have a plan and have goals, but it’s even better to be open to other things that you never thought of. If you go through life being kind to people and leaving doors open, the choices will be there."

Nick Milone: Enhancing Animal Lives

January 29, 2025

"If you're willing to learn, do the work, and be patient everything will fall into place."

Gordon "Gordy" Kauffman: Connection, Community, Recreation

January 2, 2025

"Stay active, keep moving, and surround yourself with the best people."

Andrew Schlegel: Taking Chances

December 2, 2024

"Don’t be afraid of change or trying something new. Definitely take your chance on something if you think it might be something you’d really love."

Jon Gumble: Sometimes You Have to Pivot

September 10, 2024

"Penn State really taught me that you can make a great plan and work out everything on paper, but sometimes you have to pivot."

Antoinette Gomez: Maximizing Opportunities

August 5, 2024

"Just like hurdling in track, you jump over it, and then there's another hurdle. You have steps in between. There are times we fly over hurdles in life, but there are also times you hit a hurdle and you fall to the ground, and you have to get back up. I think a lot of it is how can you be resilient?"