COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Poultry Science Association recently recognized faculty, staff and former students of the Texas A&M University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Poultry Science for their exceptional contributions to education and outreach in the poultry industry.
Dr. Greg Archer, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service poultry specialist and professor’ and Lesley Gleason ’09, a lecturer and program manager for undergraduate student development and industry relations, were recognized during the association’s annual meeting in Raleigh, N.C.
Archer received the 2025 Phibro Extension Award, which honors his impactful AgriLife Extension work and commitment to translating scientific knowledge into practical tools and strategies for poultry producers.
His work focuses on translating animal welfare and management research into practical applications in the field, improving bird well-being and production outcomes.
Gleason received the association’s 2025 Student Recruitment Award, recognizing her outstanding efforts to attract and mentor the next generation of poultry science professionals.
She has led initiatives that include the Aggie Poultry Ambassadors program and the department’s Reverse Career Fair. Her leadership and efforts have created clear pathways for students to explore careers in poultry science and connect with industry leaders.
Gleason’s work has also had a tangible impact on student success. Camryn Wilder ’25, a poultry science major, credited Gleason’s early mentorship to encouraging her to pursue research opportunities in poultry nutrition.
“She gave me direction and helped me feel like I belonged in this field,” Wilder said.
Former students shine
Dr. Hector Leyva-Jimenez ’18, manager of global technical services at United Animal Health Inc., received the 2025 Maple Leaf Farms Duck Research Award. His work centers on optimizing feed formulation and evaluating strategies to enhance nutrient utilization in poultry. He has led a wide range of trials examining the effectiveness of feed additives in both poultry and swine diets.
Dr. Ariel Bergeron ’21, poultry tech service manager at Adisseo USA Inc., earned the 2025 PSA Early Achievement Award for Industry. She oversees global research trials on poultry nutrition and performance and leads Adisseo’s Poultry Leaders of Tomorrow program, mentoring early-career professionals and driving technical innovation across the sector.
“These honors speak to the strength of our faculty, alumni and the culture of excellence we strive for in poultry science,” Dr. Audrey McElroy, head of the TAMU Department of Poultry Science, said. “It’s inspiring to see our graduates and colleagues shaping the future of the industry.”
