By: Jenna Kamppi
Featuring: Hannah Lake, Wiley Lang, Grace Lindemann, and Jack Mornarich
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our undergraduate students from Oregon State University’s Department of Animal and Rangeland Science recently stood out on the national stage, bringing home top awards and recognition for their hard work, knowledge, and passion for animal science.Hannah Lake, Wiley Lang, Grace Lindemann, and Jack Mornarich started their journey by winning the Oregon State Animal Science Quadrathlon—a hands-on, team-based competition that tests students across four key areas: a laboratory practicum, a comprehensive written exam, an extemporaneous oral presentation, and a quiz bowl. Designed to push students beyond the classroom, the Quadrathlon covers everything from reproduction and nutrition to animal welfare and vet science. It’s not only about what you know—it’s about how well you can work as a team under pressure. After winning the local event at OSU, the team advanced to the western regionals held at Colorado State University, where they placed third overall among some of the top teams in the country.
At the western regional level, the OSU team especially excelled in the oral presentation, taking first place for their take on the topic Genetically Modified Animals: The Consumer Conversation. Grace Lindemann recalled, “The written exam and quiz bowl were tough because we had no idea what to expect—but we trusted each other and worked as a team.” Each team member brought something different to the table: Hannah Lake helped tackle the practical stations; Jack Mornarich worked well with the fast-paced quiz bowl format; and both Wiley Lang and Grace Lindemann brought research experience and communication skills that helped shape their winning presentation.
Wiley and Grace also took their passion for animal science to another level by presenting undergraduate research at the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) conference in Texas. Both students placed in the top three for not one, but two competitions—the Undergraduate Poster Competition and the Applied Animal Science Research Award, judged by beef industry professionals. Wiley’s research looked at glucogenic precursors and reproduction in young range cows, while Grace explored how implant strategies and backgrounding gain affect yearling performance and carcass traits. Their success in these events didn’t just come from studying—it came from months of hard work, mentorship from Dr. Travis Mulliniks, and plenty of practice. “I practiced every chance I got,” Wiley said. “And having faculty who took time to question and challenge us made all the difference.”
These accomplishments reflect not only personal drive but also the culture of mentorship and applied learning within the College of Agricultural Sciences. Wiley credited her mentor, Dr. Mulliniks, for encouraging her to pursue impactful research: “I’m motivated to engage in activities that broaden my knowledge and connect me with others who love agriculture and livestock as much as I do.” For Grace, the connections made through these events confirmed her goals. “I met people with big reputations in Animal Science and saw the kind of work I want to be doing. OSU made those doors possible.”
As these students look ahead to graduation and careers in livestock production, research, and further academia, they carry with them not just awards but a deepened sense of confidence and purpose. “These experiences taught me about the type of professional I want to be and the people I want to work alongside,” Wiley said. Grace echoed the sentiment: “When you let your passion drive your work, you realize how far you can go.”
Everything these students accomplished is rooted in the academic and hands-on opportunities they’ve had at Oregon State. “Everything we did in this competition—from nutrition labs to beef production lectures—connected directly to what we’ve learned at OSU,” Jack said. “It made all the difference.”
Beyond the awards and presentations, these students became role models for their peers, showing what’s possible when you take advantage of what OSU has to offer. Whether it was connecting with faculty, traveling out of state, or simply stepping out of their comfort zones, each student walked away with more than just a resume boost—they gained real-world confidence and a network of people cheering them on. It’s easy to get caught up in classes and deadlines, but experiences like this remind students why they’re here and what all the hard work is for.
For OSU’s Animal and Rangeland Sciences department, its success is also a proud reflection of the university’s commitment to hands-on learning and student growth. These opportunities don’t just happen—they’re built into the culture through faculty support, accessible research opportunities, and an emphasis on professional development. Faculty mentors like Dr. Travis Mulliniks play a key role in creating these opportunities, helping students like Grace, Wiley, Jack, and Hannah succeed. Their achievements reflect the values OSU emphasizes—curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the future of agriculture.
From Fort Collins to Texas, these four Beavers represented Oregon State with pride, professionalism, and purpose. Their story is a great reminder of what can happen when students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to take that extra step. The future of animal science is in good hands.