Wes Patton, PhD

College of Agriculture
1969–2004

One of the faculty members most responsible for the growth and success of the College of Agriculture is retired Professor Wes Patton. Affectionately known as “Doc” Patton during his 35-year campus career, Patton was beloved by students and colleagues for his commitment to every aspect of what it means to be a University professor.

“I am one of the lucky faculty who Doc mentored early in their teaching career,” said Patrick Doyle, associate dean of the College of Agriculture. “Like many, I modeled my advising, teaching, research efforts, and industry commitment after Doc’s example and exemplary record.”

Agriculture professor Celina Phillips agrees: “Doc Patton is the teacher I try to emulate in my own teaching style.”

The son of Northern California sheep ranchers, Patton transferred to Chico State from Coalinga College in 1963. After completing his bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Patton earned graduate and doctoral degrees in animal science from Oregon State University. He and his wife, Jane, returned to Chico State in 1969 when he joined the College of Agriculture faculty.

Patton managed the University Farm’s Sheep Unit for many years and created Sheep Day at the Farm, a popular event now attended by hundreds of K–12 students. Alongside his faculty responsibilities, Patton has held important positions in the livestock industry, including serving as president of the American Lamb Board and the American Dexter Cattle Association. Patton has also held numerous leadership roles within the California Farm Bureau Federation and California Wool Growers.

In 2000, Patton received the University’s Outstanding Faculty Service Award. He and his wife used the award stipend to help establish the Wes and Jane Patton Student Advancement Award in the College of Agriculture. The award supports students visiting graduate schools or presenting research at professional meetings. In 2005, Patton was named the College of Agriculture’s Distinguished Alumnus, and in 2019, the college inducted Wes and Jane Patton into its Hall of Honor.

After retirement in 2004, Patton returned to ranching. He and Jane own Glenn Land Farm in Orland, where they raise sheep and cattle. He still remains closely connected to the College of Agriculture via guest speaking and hosting field trips to the Orland ranch, and his children are carrying on that connection: Kevin is an associate dean in the College of Natural Sciences and Matt is executive director of the California Agricultural Teachers Association.