Horticulture, agribusiness major is the March Aggie of the Month

April 17, 2017

By NCTA News          

Andrea Burkhardt has left a visible imprint upon the Aggie campus of the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture.

She was named Aggie of the Month for March by her peers, NCTA staff and faculty.

The Winnetoon, Nebraska, native is a third-year horticulture and agribusiness student who will graduate in May, then pursue her career in floral design.

“Andrea has selflessly affected the NCTA culture and campus,” said Mary Rittenhouse, agribusiness division chair. “She is not simply leaving with a degree but she is leaving her “touch” to the physical campus and the spirit of the school.”

In addition to campus employment with horticulture and the greenhouse, Burkhardt is active in student organizations such as Phi Theta Kappa academic honorary, Horticulture Club, and Business Club.

She maintains excellent academics, having been on the Dean’s List or Dean’s Honor Roll each semester.

Recently, she represented NCTA at national landscaping and horticulture contests in Provo, Utah, and Manhattan, Kansas, respectively. And, she received state and national scholarships for her student leadership.

“Andrea has gone above and beyond in her three years at NCTA,” said Tee Bush, horticulture professor. “She has stepped up both in and outside of the classroom to make NCTA a better place.”

Faculty, in particular, commented on Burkhardt’s dedication in multiple nominations.

“Thanks to Andrea, many areas of campus were cleaned and spruced up this past year, “said Jennifer McConville, NCTA associate dean. “She also adds little touches, such as flower pots with seasonal plants at the doorways of many buildings. It is wonderful to see someone put that much heart into her work.”

Aggie of the Month honorees receive a certificate from NCTA Dean Ron Rosati.

After graduation, Burkhardt will study at the Floral Design Institute in Portland, Oregon.