AMSA Development Council
Mission and Goals
Our values are the same as our membership's: to make a real difference through high integrity meat science. Established in 2001 by the AMSA membership, the council's mission is to generate and allocate resources to support and enhance educational programs and the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in meat science. AMSA members desire to make it possible for the world to enjoy safe, affordable, abundant, nutritious meat that improves health and longevity and productivity. To help create this future, the AMSA Development Council has the vision to fund new and ongoing AMSA programs that recruit and develop students and young professionals and strengthen careers that help feed the world.
The Work of the Council
- Develop and implement strategies through which the Council may solicit, receive and distribute contributions.
- Allocate resources consistent with legal and regulatory requirements, the wishes of the donor, and the goals and objectives of AMSA.
- Ensure prudent investment of contributions made to the Council.
- Develop and maintain procedures for donor recognition.
Council Members
AMSA Mentorship Funds
Bob Vanstavern, Ph.D.
A catalyst in the consumer-driven beef market for five decades, Dr. Bob VanStavern was a noted researcher, teacher, speaker and beloved family man. He spent his career as a meat scientist at The Ohio State University and was directly involved in establishing the quality parameters for the Certified Angus Beef® brand in 1978. His certainty in teaching the science and molding it into usable concepts for cattle farmers, meat companies, retailers and chefs connected cattle production to the quality on the dinner plate. Always looking to make beef better for each link in the value chain, his conviction regarding the influence of taste on consumer demand helped start a branded beef revolution that positively affected the economic viability and sustainability of the entire industry. This mentorship honors VanStavern as a champion of others, a listening ear, an unwavering rock and a mentor to all. Read more.
Continuing the Legacy
The funds from this mentorship will go toward supporting recognition of a student presenting research at RMC in the area of beef quality and/or consumer perceptions and demand for high-quality beef.
Dr. Bob VanStavern Beef Quality Research Student Research Recipient
- 2021 - Blake Foraker, Texas Tech University
- 2022 - Tanner Thompson, Texas tech University
- 2023 - Andres Mendizabal, Texas Tech University