Congratulations, MAY 2025 Graduates!

Sarah Juffer

B.S., Agricultural Communication

“I am grateful for the opportunities that Purdue has given me and am proud to have completed a program that has equipped me for my future. I have made many connections and had many great experiences during my time at Purdue. I am very excited to see where the future takes me and excited to pursue a career that I am passionate about.”

Hannah Kerkhof

B.S., Agricultural Communication

“At Purdue, I developed a personal network that will continue to benefit me throughout my career. I was a member of several clubs, most notably serving as President of the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. I am proud of the portfolio I developed with articles I wrote and content I created. I am most excited to see what the future has in store for me and to continue to benefit the agricultural industry in Indiana.”

KATY KINKER

B.S., Agricultural Communication

First Destination: Communications Professional, Purdue Animal Sciences, West Lafayette, Indiana

“Balancing two jobs at WRBI Radio and Purdue Animal Sciences while being a full-time student is my proudest achievement. This experience has provided me with invaluable skills, knowledge, and opportunities, shaping me into a more resilient and capable individual. I'm excited for the future because it’s a chance to apply the skills and knowledge I've gained from my degrees. With a strong foundation in both fields, I'm eager to make an impact in my career.”

Ainsley Kratochvil

B.S., Agricultural Communication

First Destination: Marketing, Sales, & Aftermarket & Customer Support Development Program, John Deere

“I am incredibly proud of the academic, professional, and personal growth I achieved. I pushed myself both inside and outside of the classroom, expanding my agricultural knowledge through rigorous coursework and my leadership skills through high-level involvement in multiple student organizations. Professionally, I gained valuable experience by completing three internships and holding two on-campus jobs, which makes me feel prepared to enter the workforce.”

Allie Matthews

B.S., Agricultural Communication

“Coming to Purdue was one of the best decisions I could’ve made for myself.  I have been able to step out of my comfort zone, get involved, and make lifelong friendships, learning so much about myself along the way. I am incredibly proud of the person I have become and the personal growth I've experienced throughout my journey to graduation.”

Mina Reising

B.S., Agricultural Communication

“Purdue gave me the skills to develop my passion for writing. Though my ultimate dream of being an author remains, I stretched my skills outside of my comfort zone and learned about new forms of writing during college. During my junior year, I became a freelance journalist and even ventured into the world of public relations. Falling in love with telling stories in a new way — and working hard to develop those skills — remains one of my proudest achievements at Purdue.”

Marnie Schwartzkopf

B.S., Agricultural Communication

“As a first-generation college student, I am proud to be a Boilermaker and use my education to make an impact within my field. As I leave college life behind, I am excited about continuing to learn and expand my knowledge as a communicator. I love being able to connect with others across our industry, and I cannot wait to begin growing my roots and develop a career that enriches my heart and mind.”

Shelby Whitaker

B.S., Agricultural Communication

“At Purdue, I'm proud to have been involved in so many different parts of the College of Ag and community. I made so many friendships and connections that I hope to have for a lifetime! I'm excited to see where the future takes me! I have been set up for success through my classes and involvements, and feel prepared and ready to accomplish my personal, small business, and career goals!”

Zoe Whitehead

B.S., Agricultural Communication

First Destination: Master of Arts in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education program, Ball State University

“I am most excited about the different directions I will be able to explore and take. While the unknown can be intimidating, I find excitement in having options and the freedom to choose a path that aligns with who I am and what I value. This journey is an opportunity for growth and discovery, and I look forward to embracing each step.”

Hayley Backus

B.S., Agricultural Education

“Now that I am in the classroom full time, it has really solidified the fact that being a teacher is what I want to do with my career. I love interacting with the students and watching them learn and grow. I love watching them put in so much work and effort and then watching it pay off in contests and other events. I am much more excited for the future now that I am sure that this is where I am meant to be.”

Ella Goeppner

B.S., Agricultural Education

“During my time at Purdue, I grew both personally and professionally. I am proud of the relationships that I have built and the friendships that have come from my experiences at Purdue. I am excited to get started in my own classroom and to build relationships with my future students. It is bittersweet that my time at Purdue is coming to an end, but I am excited to see what the future holds!”

Julia Hamblen

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Agriculture Teacher, Hauser Jr./Sr. High School, Hope, Indiana

“Having grown up in a family of educators, I have seen the profound impact teachers can have on students. I am excited to continue my family's legacy and witness my students grow and pursue their dreams each day. I look forward to inspiring and guiding them to reach their full potential and achieve their goals.”

Fayth Koontz

B.S., Agricultural Education

“I was diagnosed with a learning disability in elementary and my teachers didn't expect me to graduate high school, let alone graduate as a teacher from Purdue. I feel like I've grown so much as a person and a student while at Purdue. I am so excited to build my own classroom and relationships with students. I have absolutely loved student teaching and interacting with all the students, but I will eventually leave. I can't wait to have my own classroom and build those lasting relationships with students and the community.”

Hannah Roe

B.S., Agricultural Education

“I never thought I would say this, but I am thrilled for all of the unknowns of the future. I strive to experience new and unexpected things, and I look forward to the places I will go and the people I will meet. I cannot wait to see what my future has in store. I am so excited to see where life takes me and what new adventures lie down the road.”

Emily Spaeth

B.S., Agricultural Education

“When thinking about the future, I am excited about the experiences and countless memories I get to make with my future students like I got to make with my agricultural advisors. Also, I look forward to being able to guide students to find what they are passionate about in life through teaching them about agriculture.”

Abby Stuckwisch

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor, Brownstown (Indiana) Central High School

“As I look toward my future as an ag teacher, I am most excited about staying connected with my fellow ag education peers as we support each other throughout life. Whether it's running into one another at National FFA Convention, sharing resources back and forth, or just chatting on the phone as we share life updates, I am excited to stay connected with them and support them moving forward.”

Maddie Powell

B.S., Interdisciplinary Agriculture
“My education at Purdue University and serving on the National 4-H Young Alumni Advisory Committee have strengthened my commitment to youth development and the importance of advocating for agriculture. I look forward to a career where I can build upon the foundation I've established. I am eager to provide opportunities for future generations to be the best versions of themselves.”

Alejandra P. Jaramillo

M.S., Agricultural Sciences Education and Communication

“I’m excited about using my skills and experience to support underserved and underrepresented communities in addressing food insecurity. I look forward to developing and delivering educational programs that promote nutrition, empower individuals with knowledge, and foster healthier communities. The opportunity to collaborate with others who are passionate about equity and food systems motivates me to keep learning, growing, and making a meaningful impact.”