Penn State College of Ag Sciences Students Experience Tragic Loss By Sarah Doyle, Block and Bridle Public Relations

Representative Many people knew Dr. Christopher Raines, killed in a car crash Sunday December 18, 2011, as a co-worker, colleague, extension specialist, or pioneer in social media. He was on the forefront of the open-door policy the agriculture industry is so actively trying to instill across the nation. Through his tweets and blogs, we could learn about the truths of meat processing and production, as well as laugh at his dry humor and quirky yet qualified insights. However, for the group of us who knew Dr. Raines, assistant professor in meat science and technology at Penn State, as a teacher, whether it was at Kansas State on his meats judging team or here at Penn State, we knew him as a role model. Often times in classes we are taught the technical information about subjects, such as how rumen microbes digest otherwise indigestible protein allowing humans to have access to that protein in the form of animal meat. However, it is not often we see the other side of that equation- perhaps the more practical sidegetting the consumer who doesnt have the technical background to understand and appreciate where their food, specifically their protein, comes from, and how farmers safely produce wholesome and nutritious meat. Dr. Raines was gifted in this field of consumer communication, showing people that meat, is neat. His technique was one that we as students didnt always understand at first, but we later realized the tremendous impact he was making on removing the opaqueness of the animal agricultural industry. He shared relevant facts and taught finely-tuned communication skills, building the next generation of agricultural advocates. He was approachable, almost always in a sweater-vest, and never without a grin.

His passion for his work was inspiring, showing us that it was okay to push borders and use our unique skills (like Facebooking and blogging) to share our agricultural story in a way that made it relatable and understandable. He will be extremely missed by teachers and faculty, fellow blogosphere readers, and the small meat processing plants he diligently worked with to improve meat quality and efficiency. But he will also be missed by the student population that looked up to him and sought to follow his example. We can only hope to achieve as much as he did by the time we are 29. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and close friends and our hopes and goals will be forever touched by his teachings.