2025 Outstanding Seniors
The Agricultural Economics Department has selected four students to receive the Department’s 2025 Outstanding Senior Awards: Adelaide Easter, Lauryn Karr, Paige Vulgamore, and Grace Walenta. The award recognizes seniors in the Agricultural Economics Department for their significant contributions during their time at K-State.
Left to Right: Lauryn Karr, Adelaide Easter, Paige Vulgamore, and Grace Walenta
“Each year we recognize several of our most outstanding students. It is always an honor to recognize their accomplishments within the department as well as the University. Each of these four have excelled during their time at K-State. We appreciate the contributions of Adelaide, Lauryn, Paige, and Grace, and wish them the best as they become alumni from the Department of Agricultural Economics!” Dr. Elizabeth Yeager, Professor of Agricultural Economics and Director of Undergraduate Programs, said.
Adelaide Easter, Salina, Kansas, has completed degrees in Agricultural Economics and Global Food Systems Leadership, with minors in Leadership and International Agriculture and a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership. She was named Kansas State University's 39th Truman Scholar for her commitment to public service and addressing challenges in the global food system. Her leadership roles include Director of Stakeholder Relations for Food Security Scholars, Student Coordinator for the Global Food Systems Leadership program, and Director of Leadership Programming for Blue Key Senior Honorary. Easter also served as Basic Needs Director in the Student Governing Association, Co-Chair of the Cats’ Cupboard Advisory Board, and founder of the Student Basic Needs Coalition. She studied abroad in Italy and Kenya and completed internships with Kansas Grain Sorghum, National Sorghum Producers, and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran's office through the Flinchbaugh Food and Agriculture Policy Fellowship. This summer, she will intern with Spur Local in Washington, D.C., through the Truman Foundation Summer Institute, and plans to pursue a career in food and agricultural policy before attending graduate school.
"Studying Agricultural Economics at K-State has deepened my understanding of the global food system and economy and set me up for success in working in the community to make progress on issues like food security and poverty through policy and education,” Easter said.
Lauryn Karr, Gardner, Kansas, studied Agribusiness with a minor in Business. Now residing in Chicago, Karr developed her passion for agriculture through the influence of her grandfather. During her time at Kansas State University, she served as President of the Ag Econ/Ag Business Club, where she enhanced her leadership abilities and built strong connections within the agricultural community. She is known for her enthusiastic approach to learning and her commitment to growth both personally and professionally. After graduation, she will begin her career as a Customer Experience Specialist with Frontier Farm Credit, where she looks forward to making a positive impact in the agriculture industry.
“My time at K-State and in the Agricultural Economics Department has been nothing short of transformative. Here, I found my passion, built a foundation for my future, grew into a leader, and made friendships that will last a lifetime. Being recognized as an Agricultural Economics Outstanding Senior is a true honor and a beautiful reminder of the journey that has shaped who I am," Karr said.
Paige Vulgamore, Scott City, Kansas, majored in Agricultural Economics and Global Food Systems Leadership. At Kansas State University, she has taken on leadership roles through the College of Agriculture and been actively involved in organizations such as the Student Governing Association serving as Student Body President and Student Alumni Board. Vulgamore participated in agricultural study abroad programs that have strengthened her global perspective and leadership skills. She is passionate about agriculture policy and plans to continue her education at Texas A&M University, where she will pursue a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics with a focus on policy.
“I feel so honored to be named an Outstanding Senior alongside several of my incredible peers. This award is truly a reflection of the people who have poured into me here, within the Department of Agricultural Economics and the broader K-State community. The opportunities I've had to learn in the classroom, through campus involvement, and studying abroad, each encouraged by my mentors, have shaped who I am today. I'm so grateful to K-State for challenging me to grow, learn, and lead,” Vulgamore said.
Grace Walenta, Peoria, Illinois, majored in Agricultural Economics and International Agriculture. At K-State, she served as a College of Agriculture Ambassador, a Worship Leader and Ministry Team member with Reformed University Fellowship and participated in two study abroad programs. Walenta was a Fellow with the Risk Management Center. She was recognized as a CropLife Association (MACA) Young Leader Scholar and received the Gamma Sigma Delta Outstanding Performance Award, in addition to earning Semester Honors throughout her college career. Walenta completed a Grain Merchandising Internship with The Andersons, served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, and participated in an English-teaching missions trip to Poland. After graduation, she plans to remain in Manhattan to stay involved with her church and campus ministries while pursuing future opportunities in agriculture.
“I am honored to be recognized as an Agricultural Economics Outstanding Senior. My time as a student in Agricultural Economics at K-State has been rewarding and I am grateful for all of the faculty and staff that influenced me. I look forward to new challenges and opportunities ahead and am excited to make an impact with what I've learned,” Walenta said.
