Paxton Sullivan, a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at Colorado State University (CSU) within the Department of Animal Sciences, is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Animal Science, specializing in Livestock Behavior and Welfare under the mentorship of Dr. Lily Edwards-Callaway. As a long-time – and very proud Ram, Paxton holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science from CSU.

During her master’s studies, Paxton conducted research investigating the impact of pre-slaughter stress on the welfare and meat quality of fed beef cattle; this work illuminated critical insights into enhancing animal welfare practices within the beef supply chain. Building upon this work, Paxton’s doctoral research now centers on the intersection of human and animal well-being on cattle feedlots across the United States. By engaging with feedlot caretakers through focus group discussions, her research seeks to understand their perspectives about their job, with a particular focus on cattle care, training and resources, and work community on feedlots.

Beyond her research pursuits, Paxton is deeply invested in pedagogy within the animal sciences. Her interests span the dynamics of teaching methodologies and their impact on student learning, motivation, and engagement within the animal science classroom. After graduation, Paxton wants to continue to work in the food production industry, support the continuous improvement of food animal welfare, and foster a love and appreciation for animal agriculture among future generations of students.