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Agriculture's Cynthia Daley Receives National Honor

Cynthia Daley, assistant professor of animal biotechnology, College of Agriculture, has received one of the highest honors given to teachers of agriculture from the American Association of State Colleges of Agriculture and Renewal Resources (AASCARR).

The Outstanding Teacher Award from AASCARR is presented to a teacher early in his or her career. Daley received the award at the National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture conference on June 22 in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Daley earned a bachelor's degree in animal science from the University of Illinois in 1982. In 1986, she received a master's degree from CSU, Fresno and earned a Ph.D. in endocrinology from the University of California, Davis in 1997.

Daley began teaching at CSU, Chico in 1993 as a lecturer and was hired as an assistant professor in 1998. In the first two years of her appointment, she received $1.15 million in grants. She developed research programs in the fields of assisted reproductive technologies and alternative uses for agricultural wastes. She has also received a USDA Challenge Grant to support integrating biotechnology throughout CSU, Chico's agricultural curriculum.

Daley's background is in cattle production. She was raised on a corn/cattle farm in north-central Illinois and has been co-owner of a cattle ranch since 1987.

"I believe my production experience is invaluable in the classroom," Daley said. She involves up to 10 undergraduate students per semester in all phases of experimental research.

"Her cutting-edge knowledge and ‘can-do' outlook bring energy and inspiration to everyone who works with her -- students, colleagues, and community members," said nominator Marian Baldy, professor of agriculture.

Among Daley's other honors are Golden Key Honor Society honorary membership for high academic standards in the classroom; the 2001 Maggie Award for Outstanding Faculty; and the 2001 California Agriculture Teachers Association Teacher of Teachers Award.

Kathleen McPartland