Contacts:
Dennis Marple, Animal Science, (515) 294-2160
Brian Meyer, Agriculture Information, (515) 294-0706

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATOR TO BE REMEMBERED AT ISU DEDICATION

AMES -- An internationally known animal scientist will be remembered Oct. 31 when a conference room at Iowa State University is dedicated in his name.

The Marion Eugene Ensminger and Audrey Helen Ensminger International Room is located in a new addition to the facilities that house ISU's animal science department. "Gene" Ensminger died last July in California at the age of 90. He is survived by his wife, Audrey.

For 50 years, Ensminger conducted international agricultural technology schools to improve livestock management practices. In the '90s, he teamed with Iowa State officials to conduct schools in Russia, Ukraine, Cuba and China. In 1996, ISU awarded Ensminger an honorary doctorate of humane letters to recognize his lifelong achievements in animal science, education and international agriculture.

The new conference room will be used primarily for educational programs for international visitors and livestock groups. "Everyone who uses the room will have the chance to be inspired by the legacy of Dr. Ensminger and his wife Audrey, his partner in service to humanity," said David Topel, dean of the College of Agriculture.

A mural on Ensminger's life and legacy was recently installed in the room. The mural was painted by New York City artist Jason Gaillard. It was commissioned by a former student of Ensminger's, Leonard Vanderhoop and his wife Barbara of Glendora, Calif.

Speaking at the 2 p.m. dedication in Kildee Hall will be Audrey Ensminger, ISU President Martin Jischke, Dean Topel and Animal Science Head Dennis Marple.

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