Kansas State University Professor Visits Cowley County to Connect Students, Agri-Tourism Partners with Research

COWLEY COUNTY, Kan. — A Kansas State University professor spent April 30 engaging with students, educators and local agri-tourism partners in Cowley County through the university's Presidential Engagement Fellows program, which brings university expertise directly to communities across Kansas at no cost.

Dr. Yue Teng Vaughan, assistant professor in the School of Consumer Sciences at K-State College of Health and Human Sciences, visited the county to share research bridging sustainability, innovation, hospitality and community development.

The day began at Oxford High School, where Dr. Vaughan connected with students through storytelling and discussion about hospitality, career pathways and opportunities connected to horticulture and agritourism.

Extension Agents Becky Reid of Cowley County FCS and Gavin Beesley of Sumner County K-State Extension 4-H joined Jen Kerns of The Border Queen Harvest Hub in hosting Dr. Vaughan on a tour of local agri-tourism sites, including the Old Mill at Oxford, Flying Toad Farms, The Pecan Patch, Kilt's Orchard, which grows grapes for Shiloh Vineyard and Winery, and Elam Lavender and Honey Bee Farm.

K-State Extension – Cowley County described the visit as an example of Extension's role as a bridge connecting university expertise with local entrepreneurs, families, producers and youth.

"Extension outreach matters because it turns research into relationships, ideas into action, and education into opportunity — right where people live and work," the agency said.

CONTACT: K-State Extension – Cowley County Facebook: K-State Extension – Cowley County