K-State launches inaugural cohort of Presidential Engagement Fellows

Seven visionary faculty members selected to bring tomorrow's solutions to Kansas communities today.

What if the future of Kansas communities could be shaped by direct access to world-class research happening right now at Kansas State University? That bold vision becomes reality with the launch of K-State’s inaugural Presidential Engagement Fellows program, designed to bring university excellence directly to communities across the state.

The highly competitive program has selected seven distinguished faculty members as the inaugural cohort from 2025 to 2028, each ready to transform local challenges into opportunities for extraordinary growth.

“The future is created today, and our Presidential Engagement Fellows represent K-State’s commitment to co-creating that future with every Kansas community,” President Richard Linton said. “These aren’t just accomplished researchers — they’re visionary leaders ready to ignite movements that will shape Kansas for generations to come.”

The fellows advance K-State’s mission through four transformative pillars: community health and well-being, enabling technologies, global food security and biosecurity and sustainability.

Meet the visionary Presidential Engagement Fellows

Stephen Higgs

Biosecurity Research Institute director, associate vice president for research, Peine Professor of Biosecurity and university distinguished professor in diagnostic medicine and pathobiology

An internationally recognized expert leading America’s defense against biological threats, Stephen Higgs transforms complex infectious disease research into practical solutions that protect Kansas communities, livestock and agriculture.

With over 220 publications, he envisions a future where proactive biosecurity ensures abundant, safe food systems.

Cassandra Jones

Department of Animal Sciences and Industry professor and teaching coordinator, College of Agriculture

Bridging academic excellence with real-world agriculture as a Wabaunsee County cattle rancher, Cassandra Jones leads K-State’s most extensive undergraduate program while pioneering animal feed safety research.

She embodies the future of agriculture where innovation meets tradition to feed a growing world.

Theresa Merrick Cassidy

Department of English Writing Center assistant director and senior instructor, College of Arts and Sciences

A pioneer in writing and artificial intelligence integration, Theresa Merrick Cassidy delivers over 70 workshops annually, preparing communities for a future where human creativity amplifies technological capability.

Her work positions Kansas at the forefront of communication innovation.

Brandon Savage

Department of Management instructor, College of Business Administration

With two decades of industry expertise, Brandon Savage transforms complex business concepts into hands-on solutions while championing community service.

His AI consulting work and Habitat for Humanity involvement demonstrate how innovation and compassion create stronger communities.

Darrin Smith

K-State Olathe associate dean of faculty, research and administration, and associate professor

Leading K-State’s strategic expansion in the Kansas City region, Darrin Smith brings both his expertise in analytical chemistry and his administrative vision to advance higher education across the state.

With a diverse background spanning industry and academia, he exemplifies innovation in action.

Yue Teng Vaughan

School of Consumer Sciences assistant professor, College of Health and Human Sciences

Driving research at the intersection of hospitality, sustainability and innovation, Yue Teng Vaughan empowers stakeholders to create socially responsible solutions that benefit Kansas communities.

Through agritourism and stewardship initiatives, Vaughan prepares communities for future environmental challenges.

Linda Yarrow

School of Health Sciences assistant professor, College of Health and Human Sciences

Founder of K-State’s Guatemala service-learning program and recipient of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Excellence in Teaching Award, Linda Yarrow connects Kansas classrooms to global perspectives.

Her work prepares students for citizenship in an interconnected world through innovative medical nutrition therapy education.

The inaugural Presidential Engagement Fellows cohort exemplifies K-State’s evolution as the next-generation land-grant university, where cutting-edge research meets grassroots community impact to create a more prosperous, sustainable and connected Kansas.

Beyond traditional boundaries

The Presidential Engagement Fellows program transforms how K-State connects with Kansas communities through school visits, civic presentations and collaborative problem-solving sessions.

Each fellow brings expertise and the ability to envision and create solutions that seemed impossible yesterday.

“Why settle for conventional approaches when extraordinary possibilities are within reach?” said Tim Steffensmeier, assistant vice president and director for engagement and outreach. “Our fellows don’t just share research — they plant seeds of transformation that will grow long after they leave your community.”

Helping Kansans reach for the stars

Communities across Kansas can request visits from fellows whose expertise aligns with local needs and interests.

Whether addressing agricultural challenges, exploring technological opportunities, enhancing educational programs or developing sustainability initiatives, the program removes all barriers to accessing world-class university resources.

The fellows are prepared to engage audiences from elementary students to senior citizens, from farming cooperatives to business organizations, from civic groups to healthcare systems.

Co-creating Kansas’ future

“This program represents our unwavering belief that K-State belongs to all Kansans,” said Marshall Stewart, executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff. “Every community has the potential for extraordinary transformation when connected with the right expertise and vision.”

The Presidential Engagement Fellows program exemplifies K-State’s evolution as the next-generation land-grant university, where cutting-edge research meets grassroots community impact to create a more prosperous, sustainable and connected Kansas.

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