Special to the HT
MEEKER | Morgan Pfeiffer, an assistant professor in Oklahoma State University’s Department of Animal and Food Sciences, received the Ferguson College of Agriculture Early Career Excellence in Teaching Award during the college’s scholarships and awards banquet in March.
Pfeiffer joined the faculty in 2020 after earning her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from OSU. She has taught 25 courses and more than 1,700 undergraduate students.
“Being recognized among my peers in a college that focuses so much on teaching really means a lot,” Pfeiffer said.
Pfeiffer teaches courses including Meat and Animal Carcass Evaluation, The Meat We Eat and Processed Meat. She said the smaller enrollment in Processed Meat allows students to visit processing facilities and gain firsthand experience in the industry.
“We watched 8,000 sausage sticks being made in an hour,” Pfeiffer said. “For students to be able to see that happen really changes their perspective.”
Pfeiffer said hands-on learning is a key part of her teaching philosophy. She credits a fourth-grade teacher with recognizing she needed additional support and helping shape her academic path.
“One of my favorite parts of my job is supporting students,” she said. “They know when they leave here, I’m still a resource.”
In addition to teaching, Pfeiffer serves as the department’s scholarship coordinator, overseeing approximately $650,000 in annual scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
Cynda Clary, associate dean of academic programs, said Pfeiffer’s commitment to preparation, accountability and student support helps create an environment where students are challenged and encouraged to succeed.
Department head Richard Coffey said Pfeiffer’s contributions to teaching, mentorship and service made her a strong candidate for the award.
Pfeiffer said helping students achieve their goals is one of the most rewarding aspects of her work.
“I hope they leave knowing they have someone in their back pocket who will support them, inside and outside of academia,” she said.
