ΒιΆΉΣ³»­΄«Γ½

The Michigan State University Institute of Agricultural Technology (MSU IAT) recognized Brian Gardner as the 2026 Outstanding Faculty Award recipient during the MSU IAT Commencement Ceremony held March 29 at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing. 

The Outstanding Faculty Award is presented annually to an instructor whose work exemplifies excellence in teaching, advising, and service. The award honors faculty who go beyond the syllabus by delivering high-quality instruction, mentoring students, building strong partnerships with industry and community, and modeling the professionalism expected of MSU IAT graduates. 

β€œThis award is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices of those who know our classrooms best: our students,” said Jeno Rivera during the ceremony. β€œIt celebrates the countless hours faculty dedicate to preparing labs and lectures, answering questions after class, writing references, and encouraging students to persist when the work is hard. In short, it honors someone who embodies the mission and values of MSU IAT, and whose impact will be carried forward in the lives and careers of our graduates.” 

Gardner, who serves as IAT Program Coordinator at ΒιΆΉΣ³»­΄«Γ½, was nominated by his students for his exceptional commitment to their success and his individualized approach to education. 

Students described Gardner as an advisor and instructor who consistently goes above and beyond to support both academic and personal goals. One student shared, β€œBrian has been the best resource and supporter of my education and future goals. I am a mom of three, and he has been so flexible, accommodating, and understanding every step of the way.” 

Another nomination highlighted Gardner’s willingness to create personalized academic pathways, noting, β€œHe arranged an independent study for me to pursue my social media marketing goals and built a schedule that was not on the typical agricultural operations path so I could pursue my career goals in a personalized way.” 

As lead instructor for the Agricultural Operations program, Gardner works closely with local producers, community partners, and industry leaders to connect classroom learning with real-world agricultural careers. His students consistently described him as approachable, encouraging, and deeply invested in their success. β€œBrian has a great and positive attitude about helping students succeed,” one nomination read. β€œHe genuinely cares and puts in the work to make sure each student is set up for success.” 

Beyond the classroom, students praised Gardner for his accessibility, leadership, and advocacy. β€œBrian is always ready and willing to meet in person and go the extra mile,” another student wrote. β€œHe meets with other professionals, supports students interested in transferring, and shows up in classes and student organizations to check in on us.”

MCC President Dr. Bradley J. Barrick said it’s a privilege to congratulate Brian for this achievement.

β€œThis well-deserved recognition reflects Brian’s exceptional dedication to our students and the meaningful impact he makes every day,” Dr. Barrick said. β€œBrian’s impact extends far beyond the classroom, helping shape the future of Michigan’s agricultural workforce one student at a time.”