Each week, we will showcase one of our CAHNRS Ambassadors, a student leadership organization that encourages students to pursue higher education and serves as a liaison between the college and the greater community. This week, we’re featuring Mackenzie Ellis, a senior (graduating in December!) from Lind, Wash.
What are you studying?
I’m majoring in fruit and vegetable management.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am the assistant wine maker at Merry Cellars here in Pullman and my favorite days are the ones I get to spend getting my hands dirty doing jobs around the winery.
Why WSU?
WSU was my best fit after attending community college because I knew I wanted to be a part of the agriculture industry. But I did not have anything set in stone as to what part. I chose WSU because I knew I would have multiple majors to choose from. I stayed because of the incredible people I was given the chance to become family with through my sorority, clubs, and college.
What is special about being a CAHNRS Coug?
Being a CAHNRS Coug means working towards a major that will always be necessary in our ever-changing world. No matter how much things change in the future we are always going to need people to grow our food, care for our people, and protect our planet.
Where do you want to be (professionally or personally) 10 years after you graduate?
Ten years post graduation I would like to be in a profession that allows me to travel and be an advocate for the future of agriculture. Fingers crossed, I have my student loans paid off by then as well.
Favorite class you have taken within CAHNRS so far? Why?
Viticulture 113 because I feel like I have taken the most from that class as it pertains to my position at Merry Cellars. The class was taught by John Fellman, who always made the class interesting to say the least. I really enjoyed learning about the Champagne making process.
What extracurricular activities have you been involved in within CAHNRS (excluding ambassadors)?
CAHNRS Senate, Viticulture and Enology club, Horticulture Club, Internship through CAHNRS at Merry Cellars, SEAC Steering Committee Member
Favorite Ferdinand’s flavor of ice cream?
Chocolate Peanut Butter, but really anything when it’s in a Grabber.