Two Ohio State ATI faculty members were recognized with awards at the 2016 North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Conference.
Thomas Janini, associate professor of chemistry, is the recipient of the NACTA Educator Award. The award recognizes those individuals whose efforts represent the very best in agricultural higher education, according to NACTA. A native of northeast Ohio, Janini holds a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Kent State University. He worked for nearly a decade in the coatings and pharmaceutical industries in New Jersey and then returned to Ohio to teach. He joined Ohio State ATI in 2007 as assistant professor of chemistry. He is currently serving as Ohio State ATI's interim director.
Michael Amstutz, professor of animal sciences, is the recipient of the NACTA John Deere Award. The NACTA John Deere Award is awarded jointly to one faculty member and his or her institution. The award is designed to recognize outstanding teachers and programs of agricultural business, technology and/or management in post-secondary schools and colleges. Special emphasis is placed on preparation of students for employment in the areas of management, sales, service, processing and production. Criteria evaluated include instructor's teaching philosophy; administrative officer evaluation; three-year placement record; evaluations by current students and alumni; and continued professional development of the faculty member. Amstutz teaches and advises students in the area of beef and swine production. He holds a Ph.D. from the Ohio State University.