Spring Celebration & Awards Night

Tio Brody, Outstanding Senior, Agricultural Science & Economics

Tio is trained and experienced in nutritional, modeling and analytical chemistry, and microbiological assays, all related to ruminant nutrition. This and his comprehension of experimental design and practical agricultural knowledge sets him apart from all undergraduate and some graduate students. Through all the many wonderful contributions Tio has had as an undergraduate researcher, Tio still has managed to prioritize his education and takes learning class material extremely seriously. Tio's hard‐earned high GPA is reflective of his exceptional class involvement. Throughout his undergraduate career, Tio has traveled home to Montana during school breaks to work on his family's 600-head cattle ranch.

Emma Parsons, Outstanding Senior, NevadaTeach: Agricultural Science

Emma is this year’s recipient of Outstanding Senior in the Nevada Teach: Agricultural Science Dual Major Program. Emma’s academic achievement level has been consistently at the top of her class since entering the University. She has also spent her time here serving her community through participation in Wreaths Across America, volunteering as a math tutor for middle school and high school students, and coaching and chaperoning 4-H and FFA events. She is an active church member, volunteering her time as a youth instructor and child care provider. Emma completed her student teaching for her secondary education degree in Wells, Nevada, with Don Noorda. She is on her way to a bright future as an agriculture educator.

Zachary Heinhold, Outstanding Senior, Agricultural Science: Plant Science

Zachary's love of plants began in his grandmother's garden. Born in Las Vegas, he did not have much experience with agriculture production before he was offered a position at the University, which motivated him to pursue a degree. Zachary worked at the College's Forage Agronomy Lab and interned at Western States Hemp, a commercial producer located in Fallon. Zachary works in the College's Sustainable Horticulture Lab. He has been of great support in experiments pertaining to varietal evaluations, nitrogen rates, photosynthetic performance, biomass, water potential, plant salinity responses and root hydraulics. Zachary is a motivated student known for his thoroughness and hard work.

Sarah VanNess, Outstanding Senior, Rangeland Ecology & Management

Sarah is an outstanding rangeland ecology and management student. She currently works in Tracy Shane's lab, and is on the leadership team of the University’s Range Club. Sarah is a diligent and bright student who excels in her classes, with a strong GPA. She is a pleasure to be around and will be an absolute asset to her future employers.

Arturo Macías Franco, Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Animal & Rangeland Science

Arturo has achieved a level of excellence that is arguably unprecedented among graduate students worldwide. He has associate degrees in natural science and mathematics and applied mathematics, as well as two undergraduate degrees from the College in veterinary and agricultural sciences. His research focuses on how agriculture producers can use technology, such as satellite imagery and drones, to create sustainable systems for livestock production and water usage. Arturo has been very active in leadership initiatives and speaking at conferences that address current opportunities for undocumented immigrants.

Uriel Cholula Rivera, Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Environmental Sciences & Health

Uriel was born and raised in a small rural community in Mexico that has no high school, so he had to leave his family at a young age to study. Uriel earned a B.S. in irrigation engineering from the University, and is the first college graduate in his family and community. He also holds an M.S. in biological and agricultural engineering. Uriel's Ph.D. research on cultivating alfalfa without fully meeting its water demands is expected to improve alfalfa irrigation management. Alfalfa is Nevada's the highest consumer of fresh water and most economically important crop. In addition to being a promising researcher, Uriel is an excellent student.

Sailor Lee, Outstanding Senior, Veterinary Science

Sailor Lee has been awarded the 2023 Outstanding Senior in Veterinary Science Award for her involvement with her community and for her academic successes. Sailor shares her home with her pet pigs and works at a small animal practice in the Reno area. She will be attending veterinary school in Great Britain in the fall of this year. Congratulations Sailor, and good luck on the next part of your educational journey!

Isadora M. Batalha, Excellence in Veterinary Instruction

Isadora joined the University as a graduate student in 2018. She successfully defended her master’s thesis in December 2020 and then started her Ph.D. in animal and rangeland science. Since joining the University, Isadora has taught and helped to teach four courses in the Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences for 11 semesters. As a graduate student at the University, Isadora has authored or coauthored five peer-reviewed scientific articles and seven conference abstracts.