KBS graduate student honored with award for outstanding leadership

Natali Gonzalez, a W.K. Kellogg Biological Station Ph.D. student, received a 2024 Outstanding Student Leadership Award from Michigan State University’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The award recognizes students who have demonstrated service and leadership in their department, the college, university and their community. Nominations are accepted from faculty members, academic advisors and club advisors.

Natali Gonzalez

Gonzalez, a first-generation student and migrant farmworker born in Texas and raised in Mexico, was drawn to MSU through the College Assistance Migrant Program Scholars Initiative, or CAMP. This residential program assists migrant and seasonal farmworker students with academic, social and financial support in their educational journey.

“I’m the daughter of immigrants. I will forever be the daughter of immigrants and migrant farmworkers. That has deeply influenced my love for agriculture and connection to nature,” said Gonzalez.

“When I came to MSU, I faced a significant culture shock, but CAMP became a place where I felt supported and understood. Being involved in the program became a big part of who I am at this university.”

Gonzalez has shown exceptional leadership and service, notably as president of the MSU chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences, or MANRRS, where she advocated for underrepresented voices in agriculture. She also led a sustainable agriculture project in Chiapas, Mexico, as part of an international engagement program, reflecting her commitment to environmental responsibility and inclusion.

Gonzalez is pursuing a doctoral degree in crop and soil sciences under the mentorship of KBS faculty member, Christine Sprunger.

“I want to help farmers understand how sustainable practices can benefit them, both in terms of their crops and communities,” Gonzalez shared. “By incorporating voices from marginalized groups into decision-making, we can create more equitable and effective solutions to agricultural challenges.” 

Join us in congratulating Natali!

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