Farm Director, KC Sheperd, is talking with the vice president and dean of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Dr. Thomas Coon, about his upcoming retirement.
Looking back on his career over the years, Coon talked about the journey that led him to Oklahoma State University.
“I was on the faculty at the University of Missouri early in my career, went to Michigan State, was there 25 years, had served as extension director for nine years, and qualified for retirement there,” Coon said. “Our kids were out of high school, they were in college, and OSU came knocking.”
Passing up retirement from Michigan State, Coon said he chose to take the step and join the OSU family.
“They decided they wanted to give me a try, and the rest is history,” Coon said.
One of the things that stuck out to Coon about OSU agriculture, he said, was the overwhelming support and positive attitude from the faculty, students, alumni, and those that OSU agriculture serves.
Coon has had the chance to be part of many different projects and renovations for OSU agriculture, including New Frontiers Ag Hall, the university’s equine center, the dairy center, and more.
“We have been able to do that in spite of budget cuts,” Coon said. “We have been able to do that because people support this college, and the industry supports us, and we have been frugal with the resources we have.”
Although many significant improvements have been made during his time at OSU, Coon said there is still work to be done.
“I hope my successor sees it that way,” Coon said.
