Henry D. Bignell, GSNB’14, Endocrinology and Animal Biosciences.
In this continuing series, Explorations profiles recent graduates who have launched successful careers and are making an impact on society. This installment features a dynamic brother-and-sister duo who got their start at SEBS, and current graduate students who are making an impact in higher education.
Henry D. Bignell, GSNB’14, Endocrinology and Animal Biosciences
Hank Bignell was just hired as the ANR Senior Program Coordinator in Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Warren County and will be providing leadership and support to the educational program in that county on commercial agriculture issues, with specific emphasis on livestock and animal husbandry; pasture management; nutrient management; and small and beginning farms.
Previously he was a senior livestock resource educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension, a position he’s held for two years, where his goal was to help more livestock producers enhance their businesses by providing best management practices, valuable educational materials, and personal support.
On Rutgers’ impact:
I wholeheartedly believe that I would not be where I am today without the endocrinology and animal biosciences program. From hands-on experience working at the Rutgers Farm to establishing a research project, teaching an animal nutrition laboratory, and the countless other skills I obtained while in the master’s program, I was ready to tackle any obstacles thrown at me in the cooperative extension field. The faculty of the animal sciences department along with the extension specialists continue to give advice and support to help me grow in this field.
On his Rutgers mentor:
I was fortunate to have two mentors, Dr. Carol Bagnell and Dr. Larry Katz. Dr. Bagnell was my adviser, and the training and guidance she provided has been invaluable. Without her leadership and guidance, I strongly believe I would not be where I am today. She has taught me so many technical and life skills that I utilize in my current profession and in my personal life. Dr. Katz introduced me to the cooperative extension field when I first started my master’s degree. He has been actively supporting me throughout my extension career. His guidance and friendship has been priceless.
On Rutgers pride:
My time at Rutgers has been invaluable. There are so many things that make me proud to be a Scarlet Knight. Knowing that the animal sciences department is full of amazing professors that provide an invaluable education to all of their students makes me the most proud of being a Rutgers graduate.
Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared in the Spring 2018 edition of Explorations.
