Three soil and crop sciences students, Savanna Shelnutt, Caitlyn Lakey and Nicole Shigley, have been named as Golden Opportunity Scholars for 2018-19 by the American Society of Agronomy.

Nicole Shigley
Nicole Shigley

All three are in their senior year, working toward their Bachelor of Science degrees in Plant and Environmental Soil Science.

From Spring, TX, Nicole plans to pursue her Master of Science in soil science and her professional soil science license. Ultimately, Nicole would like to have a job that connects soil education to the public.

Savanna is originally from Montgomery, AL, but her family moved to Garland, TX, when she was in high school. After completing her Bachelor of Science degree she plans to seek a higher degree focused on sustainable agriculture, and find a career in international agriculture.

Savanna Shelnutt
Savanna Shelnutt
Caitlin Lakey
Caitlin Lakey

Caitlyn is from Porter, TX. After completing her Bachelor of Science next spring, she plans to continue on with graduate school seeking an advanced degree in plant breeding.

The Golden Opportunities Scholars program is sponsored by the ASA, Crop Science Society of America and Soil Science Society of America. According to the ASA website, the program is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in agronomy, crops, soils and environmental science professionals.

The students are mentored by a society professional with similar interests and career goals, supported financially in their studies and for travel to the annual meetings. The students will also receive financial support to attend Congressional Visits Day in Washington D.C.

Students from across the world are considered for this program.