Alumni Memories

Jim Hanson

New Market, Iowa

Animal Science, B.S., 1976

While in school I was active with Block and Bridle, served as an officer and was active with club activities. I served as VEISHEA Display co- chairman in 1974.

One activity I took part in was the 1975 Ag-Travel course of the east, southeast, southwest and western states. The trip lasted over a month, we toured agriculture related industries or stops through these states.

While on this trip we also made stops In Washington, D.C., where we visited with the Iowa Congressional delegation, went to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., and spent a night of fun on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Through this course we received four credits each in agronomy and animal science and had to write a report concerning what we observed of agriculture while on the trip.

The two other activities I was involved with was being a member of both the meats and livestock judging teams of 1974 and '75. Many hours and miles were spent traveling to workouts and contests through the country.

I can remember many cold snowy nights from December through February in practice sessions in the old meat lab and old livestock and swine pavilions, the latter two not being that pleasant any time of the year but in winter they were cold, wet and smelly. I remember those times with my teammates fondly and would do again if I had a chance.

My involvement with Iowa State still continues, and will always be there. In the next few years I hope to complete my Master's in Agriculture degree which I started working on in 1986, but had to put on hold in the mid-'90's due to family obligations.

The memories which I have from my days at Iowa State are some of the happiest I cherish. The acquaintances and friendships that I have made will stay with me forever.

I still keep in contact with old classmates and professors often. Those were very special times.