mpus cares for future American generations; to him, teaching at Arkansas State University means just that, educating A-State students on the importance of sustainable agriculture.

Randy Burnett, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of animal science, who wants to ensure the safety and quality of future American agriculture. Burnett, raised in Greenbrier, Arkansas, said he grew up on a cattle farm where he developed a love for livestock, agriculture and specifically animal science. 

Burnett said he is passionate about teaching future generations the importance of sustainable agriculture, but finds it equally important to constantly research. Additionally, he said he is educating himself in the hopes of staying “relevant” with his publications and discoveries. 

“I always look for ways to stay relevant to stay in front. I know this sounds egotistical, but it’s true. As a professor, you are always looking for ways to stay important and I am no exception,” Burnett said. 

Burnett said being the first to graduate college and the first to achieve the title of doctor in his family are some of his proudest achievements. Additionally, he said teaching at A-State has become far more than just a job.

“I always thought that I would teach at the University of Arkansas. It felt like home but I was wrong; A-State is more like home and that was the reason I stayed,” Burnett said.

When conducting lectures, Burnett likes to be straightforward: presenting the material and then having the students apply it to the real world. Although, his execution for lab courses is different. He said he prefers hands-on teaching and believes by doing such he ensures students with experience and confidence in their future endeavors.

Kaleb Smith, a former student of Burnett said he is easygoing, professional and helpful.

“He forced us to take notes which was very helpful, but overall, he cared for his students,” Smith said. “He made us go to his office one-on-one and by the end of the semester he knew all our names.”

Smith also said he enjoyed the way Burnett conducted his classes and presented the information. 

“Dr. Burnett kept us engaged during class with slides and enthusiasm,” Smith said. “There wasn’t a dull moment and if I ever had questions it was as simple as showing up to his office after class; he was always available.”

Jerica Rich, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of animal science and said she was chair of the committee which hired Burnett. 

Rich said Burnett stood out as a professor for the compassion and care he shows his students. 

“Dr. Burnett shows a lot of pride for his student’s success in the classroom and their careers post-graduation,” Rich said. 

She said she was pleased to watch as Burnett continued to mentor and care for the students here at A-State even as he took on more responsibilities. 

Donald Kennedy, Ph.D., associate dean and professor of animal science, said Burnett reinforces learning in the classroom with real-world applications as well as providing research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.  

“His teaching methods exemplify the College of Agriculture’s motto: ‘Experiencing Agriculture Beyond the Classroom,’” Kennedy said. “I am glad Dr. Burnett has joined our faculty; I see a very bright future for him at A-State.” 

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