Josh DeSantiago – Brigham Young University

I am originally from Gomez Palacio, Durango, Mexico, and from a young age, I developed a passion for agriculture, particularly an avid curiosity about seeds, their importance, and their physiology. This curiosity led me to pursue a bachelor's degree in agronomy, crop, and soil science from Brigham Young University in Idaho.

My journey took me to Wisconsin, where I had the incredible opportunity to work in the seed industry, specifically growing seed corn. This experience deepened my understanding and love for agriculture. Currently, I am pursuing a master's degree in environmental science, focusing on integrating biology for plant establishment in harsh conditions. Additionally, I am proud to serve as part of the BYU SER presidency, where I contribute to our community's environmental restoration efforts.

As I look to the future, I am excited about the prospect of returning to the seed production industry, armed with new knowledge and a deeper commitment to sustainable agriculture especially understanding that seed technology could be the key for better crop production.

Tegan Macy – University of Idaho

My name is Tegan Macy, and I am from Culver, Oregon. In the fall of 2025, I will be a senior at the University of Idaho with a major in crop science and minor in animal science. I grew up working on my family’s farm, Macy Farms, which produces a variety of crops including seed potatoes, carrot seed, grass seed, wheat, and peppermint. After graduating with a bachelor's degree, I plan to return to my family farm and join the fourth generation.

Shaley Tiegs – University of Idaho

Shaley Tiegs is a sophomore studying Crop Science and Management with minors in Agribusiness and Ag Systems Management. Growing up in Fairfield Washington, she has been heavily involved in her family’s dryland wheat farm on the northern Palouse. After graduation from the University of Idaho she hopes to work as an agronomist or field representative for a chemical or seed company for a few years before making the commitment to return home to the family farm.

Marita White - Washington State University

Marita was born and raised in St Paul, MN. She completed her undergraduate education at Bethel University in St Paul, MN, where she earned bachelor’s degrees in biology and biochemistry. She is currently a third year PhD student at Washington State University in Pullman, WA studying Molecular Plant Sciences in Dr. Kim Campbell’s lab. Her graduate research focuses on tolerance of acid soil in wheat, and any role the soil microbiome may play in that process. When she isn’t working on her research, Marita enjoys spending time in nature, reading fantasy books, and crocheting.