Scott Senseman, associate vice president of OSU Ag Research, has been presented with agInnovation’s Award for Excellence in Leadership, honoring his work with the organization.
AgInnovation is the nationwide system of agricultural research stations, which is operated by leadership from land-grant universities across the nation. The organization focuses on research collaborations and strategic planning to strengthen water resilience, protect working lands and ensure sustainable food systems.
The national award is given in recognition of those who have served the regional associations of agInnovation and the national land-grant system with exemplary distinction, with recipients having personified the highest level of excellence by enhancing the cause and performance of agInnovation in achieving its mission.
“In this role, Scott Senseman has been intensifying his impact as a land-grant university leader. I have witnessed his dedicated and effective leadership,” said Hongwei Xin, dean and director of the University of Tennessee AgResearch and fellow agInnovation member. “Dr. Senseman has touched and impacted many lives through his unwavering commitment to the land-grant mission, and he is not done yet.”
Senseman has been instrumental in shaping the vision and momentum of agInnovation, serving on the agInnovation Budget and Legislative Committee and playing a central role in agInnovation South, where he served as chair in 2024, sits on the executive committee and contributes to the Strategic Implementation Team. He is also an active participant in key USDA multistate research initiatives.
“Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Senseman is recognized for the values that drive his leadership: strategy, integrity and empathy. His approach is shaped by his belief in building strong teams driven by a shared mission,” said Jayson Lusk, vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture. “Dr. Senseman demonstrates a rare combination of strategic insight, scholarly excellence and unwavering commitment to public service. His work reflects the highest ideals of the land-grant system: innovation, accessibility and service to the people of Oklahoma and the region.”
Senseman said he has been fortunate to work with other research leaders across agInnovation’s southern region, who have been helpful and inspirational in their examples of leadership at their institutions.
“I have learned a great deal from all of them, as well as our Executive Director for agInnovation South, Dr. Gary Thompson,” Senseman said. “I’m humbled by the nomination put forward on my behalf from our administration and receiving this award, knowing the list of honored individuals who have received this award before me.”
OSU Ag Research is Oklahoma’s premier research and technology development agency in agriculture, natural resources and the life sciences.
