Animal Science is fortunate to have dedicated and talented professional staff that assists our faculty in their research and programs. We would like to take the opportunity to let you get to know them. Today we will meet Jessy Shanks.
Questions
Tell us about your position and what you do in Animal Science.
I am the Small Ruminant and Youth Programs Extension Specialist for Animal Science. I assist Extension Agents in helping small ruminant producers across the state with education, training, and any other assistance they might need. In addition to helping small ruminant producers I also create and oversee the Skillathon contests at our state livestock shows.
What brought you to Animal Science?
I earned my BS (2009) and MS (2011) degrees in Animal Science and loved the department so much that I wanted to stay! I was originally a Senior Lecturer in the department but I transitioned over to Extension in 2020.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is being able to help small ruminant producers on a daily basis. I enjoy working with them and UT/TSU Extension Agents across the state to come up with solutions and answers to their small ruminant questions and problems.
What is your favorite activity outside of lab/work that makes Friday a day to look forward to each week?
My favorite activity is spending time with my family and raising sheep. My husband and I raise Southdowns and Dorpers with our daughter and we are constantly working in the barn or somewhere on the farm. I also enjoy watching my daughter and our three dogs play together when we are not at the barn or at a sheep show.
