Congratulations, December 2025 Graduates!

Sarah Backus

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Agriculture Teacher, South Decatur Junior/Senior High School, Greensburg, Indiana

“During my time at Purdue, I’m most proud of pushing myself to work hard and fight for my education while never losing sight of my dream of becoming an agricultural educator. There were challenges along the way, but I refused to give up, and that determination shaped who I am today. I’m proud not only of what I achieved, but of the person I became through it all. I also owe so much to the incredible support system that stood beside me.”

Kylie Farris

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Middle and High School Agriculture Teacher, Tri County High School, Wolcott, Indiana

“During my time at Purdue, I stayed very active in all endeavors whether that be my academics, IAAE-Purdue, ASEC Ambassadors, and my job. I am excited to plant and water the seed of the love of agriculture in the minds of my students and encourage the next generation of agriculturalists!”

Abby Funk

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Agriculture Teacher and Middle School FFA Advisor, Rossville (Indiana) Middle/High School

“I am excited about the future, because it’s full of opportunities for growth and discovery. Whether it is stepping into my own classroom to show students all that agriculture has to offer, or continuing to grow as a learner myself, I’m eager for the chance to keep learning, teaching, and making a difference.”

Angel Morehouse

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Agriculture Teacher, Sullivan (Indiana) High School

“Something that I did at Purdue that made me proud was being the women's basketball manager. I felt like I had a sense of belonging and was part of a team. Something that makes me excited about the future is continuing to teach at Sullivan High School and making connections with the students and community.”

Jessika Thomas

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor, Jac-Cen-Del Jr./Sr. High School, Osgood, Indiana

“At Purdue, I have had many opportunities to learn and grow. I am excited to get into my own classroom and build rapport with my future students. I want to see them succeed and help instill the love of agriculture that I have. Although my time at Purdue is ending, I am excited to start the next chapter in my life!”

Lauren Ulrich

B.S., Agricultural Education

First Destination: Middle and High School Agriculture Teacher, Indian Creek Schools, Trafalgar, Indiana

“I made a promise that I would get out of my comfort zone. I joined many clubs and activities that have helped me become better as a teacher and a person. Being in the classroom this semester has made it clear that I love teaching agriculture! I am excited to work with students every year to help them find their passions about agriculture and grow as leaders!”

Mathew Smith

Ph.D., Agricultural Sciences Education and Communication

“I am excited to begin teaching preservice and early career teachers as they begin their journeys to becoming agricultural educators. Teaching is one of my greatest joys and motivates my academic research that focuses on the identity development of agricultural educators, which enables us to enhance the effectiveness of our teacher preparation programs and improve the experiences of current and future agricultural education preservice students.”