WHAT HAPPENED: At its Oct. 9, 2026 reunion celebration, the University of Kentucky Department of Animal and Food Sciences at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment honored leaders whose careers have strengthened poultry production, policy, education and outreach.
THE AWARD: The annual reunion awards recognize alumni and department leaders whose professional achievements and service have made a lasting impact on animal agriculture, exemplifying the department’s commitment to science-based leadership and service to poultry producers in Kentucky and across the nation.
THE HONOREES: NCC’s Ashley Peterson, Ph.D., senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs, received the 2026 Animal and Food Sciences Distinguished Alumnus Award. A Shelby County native, Peterson earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from UK in 1999 before completing graduate degrees at Michigan State University and the University of Maryland.
Anthony J. Pescatore, Ph.D., UK professor emeritus and longtime Extension poultry specialist, received the 2026 Animal and Food Sciences Hall of Fame Award. Pescatore nominated Peterson for the award.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: “Dr. Peterson brings the voice of science to the discussion of these complicated issues,” Pescatore wrote. “Industry leaders, politicians and government agencies turn to Ashley for information and facts on the most controversial issues facing the poultry industry.”
Jamie D. Guffey, executive director of the Kentucky Poultry Federation, echoed that sentiment. In a letter supporting Peterson’s nomination, Guffey wrote that his organization depends on Peterson’s communications to stay informed.
“Returning to the place that laid the foundation for my professional life underscores the influence that my mentors and experiences have had on my career,” Peterson said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve such a critically important industry.”
