November 2021
Researchers identify broccoli genes that affect freshness, fight food waste
Eleni Pliakoni, associate professor of urban food production and postharvest handling, and colleagues at the University of Florida and Virginia Tech have identified genes in broccoli that regulate how broccoli degrades after it's harvested. These insights could help develop a quick and easy freshness test for produce and help breed broccoli that stays fresher longer. Improving the freshness of produce is one piece of solving the global problem of food waste.
Cyber bootcamps offer fast track to local, in-demand tech careers
K-State Olathe is offering four Digital Skills Bootcamps as alternative learning pathways for local professionals to access future-focused education for a tech-driven business world. Digital Skills Bootcamps at K-State Olathe are helping local professionals quickly transition to in-demand tech careers, while addressing the demand for thousands of unfilled jobs in Greater Kansas City.

Salad contest feeds K-12 students' scientific curiosity, STEM knowledge
The annual Willie and the Salad Bonanza Contest had more than 150 registrants from K-12 competing in a 47 day leafy greens growing contest. On Nov. 6, greens were weighed and winners were declared.

Stuteville honored by colleagues with university's Charlie Award
Rebekkah Stuteville, assistant dean of academic support services, teaching associate professor and director of the professional science master's degree program, received the November Charlie Award. This peer nominated award celebrates talented colleagues who creatively engage in their work, have a positive impact on their students and demonstrate leadership.

Manreet Bhullar working to improve food production, food safety
Manreet Bhullar, research assistant professor of horticulture and natural resources and head of the Bhullar Food Safety Lab, is spotlighted in the BioNexus KC's "The Connection." Learn about his many research projects and how they work to advance food safety and help Kansas become a bigger contributor in the region's fresh produce. 

Upcoming Events
Community
Vet Med Lecture: Veterinary Hematology: Red cells, white cells and platelets on the move, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Feb. 16, 2022 -- Red cells, white cells and platelets - oh my! The Careers and Cases in Veterinary Medicine series presents a webinar about veterinary hematology by Brandy Kastl, clinical assistant professor in K-State's Veterinary Diagnostic Lab. The free series is geared to high school students, parents, teachers and the general public. | Register now
Professional Development
Effectively Engaging Across Cultural and Generational Differences, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 8, 2022 -- Successful leaders are able to work with and lead others in a culturally diverse workforce. This interactive workshop will provide ways to understand and collaborate with your colleagues by examining workplace flexibility, teamwork, feedback and leadership. | Register now
Academic
Professional Science Master in Applied Biosciences Webinar, noon to 12:30 p.m., Dec. 1 -- Learn more about the Professional Science Master in Applied Biosciences program focused on animal health and food safety and security through a presentation and Q&A session with K-State Olathe faculty. | Register now

Graduate Certificate in Animal Health Regulatory Affairs Webinar, noon to 12:30 p.m., Dec. 8 -- Now is the time to learn more about the next step for your professional success. Gain the tools and knowledge needed needed to navigate governmental processes and regulations in animal health. Join us for a webinar to learn more. | Register now

M.S. in Veterinary Biomedical Science Webinar, 12:30-1 p.m., Dec. 8 -- Join us after the regulatory affairs webinar for an opportunity to learn about the Veterinary Biomedical Science program at K-State Olathe. Enjoy a short presentation and Q&A session with faculty. | Register now
Around Campus
Several students received grants for their research from generous sponsors at the recent Kansas City One Health Day. The annual event spotlights an issue that affects human, animal and environmental health. This year's event featured experts discussing harmful algal blooms as well as a research poster competition for students.
Attendees of the "Building and Motivating Effective Teams" professional development workshop did several hands-on exercises that helped them learn techniques to maximize performance. The workshop is part of the ongoing Leadership Series for Technical Professionals.
Tricia Jenkins, a doctoral student in horticulture and natural resources, gave her Ph.D. defense “Maximizing quality in grafted tomato production systems.” Jenkins’ advisor is Eleni Pliakoni, associate professor of urban food production and postharvest handling.
Laurel Silcott recently gave her master’s presentation, “DIVA Vaccines: Facing the Future of Foreign Animal Diseases.” Silcott, a student in the M.S. in Veterinary Biomedical Science program, discussed how the DIVA strategy helps ensure the safety of our food supply through food animal vaccination, and what it may mean for defending against emerging foreign animal diseases. Her advisor is Paige Adams, teaching assistant professor in veterinary medicine.
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