July 14, 2026
 

University of Arkansas' Casey Owens receives 2026 NOVUS Outstanding Teaching Award

Owens was recognised for her dedication to student success, innovative teaching methods and lasting contributions to poultry science education at the Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting in Toronto.

Casey M. Owens, Ph.D., Professor of Poultry Science at the University of Arkansas, has been named the recipient of the 2026 NOVUS Outstanding Teaching Award, presented during an awards ceremony at the Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting in Toronto on 13 July 2026.

Owens has spent 26 years at the University of Arkansas, teaching undergraduate and graduate-level courses in poultry science, food science and animal science. Her teaching philosophy centres on linking scientific theory to real-world application, incorporating interactive and experiential elements to engage diverse learners and build practical skills.

"This approach engages diverse learners and helps students develop both technical knowledge and practical skills they can apply beyond the classroom," she said. "I also purposely incorporate fun, creative elements into my courses including interactive activities like gamified reviews and themed challenges."

In addition to teaching, Owens conducts research on poultry meat quality, evaluating how production and processing practices affect tenderness, water-holding capacity, colour and sensory attributes. She leads industry workshops on meat and egg processing, serves as undergraduate curriculum chair and academic adviser, and has mentored numerous doctoral and master's students throughout her career.

Beyond the university, Owens hosts poultry product workshops, mentors high school students participating in agriscience fairs and supports young people in exploring careers in the poultry industry.

Lindsay Parker, NOVUS Poultry Solutions Senior Manager for North America, said the award reflected Owens' impact in bridging industry, academia and research. "Dr. Owens' passion for poultry extends from her interaction with students and allied groups to integrators and consumers. Her research around meat quality is likewise highly regarded and meaningful in advancing the poultry industry," Parker said.

The NOVUS Outstanding Teaching Award recognises exceptional educators who have demonstrated excellence in teaching and a commitment to advancing poultry science education.

- NOVUS