Drach receives college award

The Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture recognized six second-year students for their academic performance, service, campus involvement and achievements during their freshman year.

Laney Stansell was named the 2025 Charles and Magda Browning Outstanding Freshman. Additionally, Bryce Bain, Niveditha Minukuri, Kinsey Proctor, Andrew Schulz and Ellie Drach were honored with the Freshman Excellence Award.Stansell, an agricultural education major from Fluvanna, Texas, was involved in Collegiate 4-H and the First Year Representative Council. She was also a freshman research scholar and presented at the OSU Freshman Research Symposium. She currently serves as a Ferguson College Career Liaison and senator with the Student Government Association.

Stansell said her academic year was supported by mentors and peers who pushed her to grow.

“Sometimes the most important lessons aren’t in the syllabus, they’re in the people sitting beside you,” Stansell said. “Without them, my list of achievements would be short — and my confidence even shorter.”

Bain, an agribusiness and accounting dual major from Artesia, New Mexico, was active in Aggie-X, Block and Bridle, and the Pre-Law Club. He volunteered with the National FFA Officer Candidate Training, Humane Society of Stillwater and Into the Streets. Bain was also a teaching assistant in the OSU Department of Agricultural Economics.

Bain credits his experiences in the Ferguson College for how he approaches service and leadership, he said.

“The Ferguson College has helped me become intentional about serving others,” Bain said. “I’ve learned to step outside my comfort zone, which has led to growth personally, professionally and academically.”

Drach, an animal science major from Pontiac, Illinois, was active in the Beekeeping Club, Horseman’s Association, Meat Science Club, and Block and Bridle. She was also an undergraduate research assistant working in the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center.

Drach said that expanding her comfort zone brought her some of the best memories and experiences.

“College is a time to discover, grow and turn opportunities into memories,” Drach said. “Be brave enough to put yourself out there, challenge your comfort zone and take chances.”

Minukuri, a biochemistry and molecular biology major from Hyderabad, India, engaged in undergraduate research as a freshman research scholar studying cystic fibrosis and antibiotic resistance. She also serves as an international student ambassador, campus tour guide and a Ferguson College Global Engagement Leader. 

During her time in the Ferguson College, Minukuri said the close-knit community has given her a strong sense of belonging.

“Ferguson’s welcoming community made me feel like I was truly part of a family, even far from home,” Minukuri said. “The support of my professors and mentors has shaped the way I see my future.”

Proctor, an agribusiness major from Perry, Oklahoma, conducted undergraduate research at the OSU Student Farm, contributing to a project on nutrient runoff remediation. She was active in the Horticulture Club, Pre-Law Club, Students of Law in Practice, Cowboython and Pi Beta Phi. 

Proctor said her freshman year was a time of development while being supported by like-minded peers. 

“This year came with unexpected challenges, but the support I’ve received has strengthened my resolve,” Proctor said. “Ferguson has given me more than a strong academic foundation — it’s helped me find purpose, build relationships and grow through adversity.”

Schulz, an agribusiness major from Reardan, Washington, was a member of the Ferguson College Freshmen Transfer Council, Aggie-X, and the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature Team. He competed in Aggie-X Quiz Bowl and was named Outstanding New Member in Aggie-X.

Schulz said the Ferguson College pushed him to pursue leadership roles and grow as a student.

“My first year was full of growth and involvement,” Schulz said. “The Ferguson College truly is a family, and I’m grateful for the community that has helped me along the way.”