The Farm Foundation has named Jayson Lusk, vice president and dean of Oklahoma State University Agriculture, as the 2024 recipient of the R.J. Hildreth Public Policy Award. The award recognizes career achievement in government service, education, or agricultural policy research, honoring individuals who have made significant impacts on policy or education through their research.
“I’m honored to be part of such a prestigious group of individuals presented with the R.J. Hildreth Public Policy Award,” Lusk said. “I hold the Farm Foundation in high regard. I’m pleased to see the organization recognize individuals who are involved in not only ag policy but also food policy.”
Lusk’s academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in food science and technology from Texas Tech University, where he discovered his passion for food policy. He later pursued a doctorate in agricultural economics at Kansas State University. His research focuses on food policy, emerging food issues and consumer behaviors, setting him apart as a leader in the industry with over 270 published articles and six books.
Before his current role at OSU, Lusk served at Purdue University as a distinguished professor and head of the agricultural economics department for six years. From 2005 to 2017, Lusk worked at OSU as an agricultural economics professor, Willard Sparks Endowed Chair and later as a regents professor.
Lusk accepted the award at the Farm Foundation Round Table Chairman’s Dinner in Broomfield, Colorado, on June 20. Trey Malone, assistant professor in agricultural economics and agribusiness at the University of Arkansas, nominated Lusk for the esteemed award, praising his impactful research, policy engagement, and mentorship.
