UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Department of Animal Science in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences has named Daniel Loy, of Ames, Iowa, its 2024 Animal Science Distinguished Alumnus.
Loy spent a celebrated career at Iowa State University, retiring earlier this year as a professor of animal science and extension livestock specialist. He also served as the director of the university’s Iowa Beef Center beginning in 2010.
“I am humbled and honored to be recognized as a distinguished alumnus,” Loy said. “I treasure my time at Penn State and the people I shared it with. My Penn State graduate school experience prepared me for a long and successful career.”
This award recognizes Loy’s many accomplishments and tireless dedication to the discipline of animal science, including significant contributions to extension leadership of the Iowa Beef Center and service to the U.S. beef industry. He joins a select group of distinguished alumni who have contributed significantly to animal agriculture.
“We are delighted to name Dr. Loy as this year’s Distinguished Alumnus,” said Adele Turzillo, head of the Department of Animal Science. “This award reflects his illustrious career in research, education and extension, as well as the many notable impacts of his work on U.S. beef production.”
Loy received his bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University in 1978. He completed his doctorate at Penn State in 1982. While at Penn State, Loy conducted graduate research and assisted with coaching the livestock judging team.
“Over the years, Dan has worked with many of the best beef cattle producers in Iowa,” Penn State Professor Emeritus Erskine Cash said. “His extensive knowledge and willingness to assist producers undoubtedly had a positive impact on their profit margins and the industry as a whole. Dan is a gentleman and an expert in his field.”
During his career, Loy studied beef cattle production and ruminant nutrition. His research included evaluating byproducts and other components of the beef system.
Loy also provided leadership in beef feedlot management and nutrition extension programs. He acted as a technical resource and provided training for beef producers, agribusinesses and extension staff. Additionally, he developed decision-based software programs for the livestock industry and enhanced the utilization of these technologies through education.
Loy authored or co-authored several hundred refereed journal articles, non-refereed journal articles, newsletters, abstracts and other publications. He also served as an adviser to the Iowa State University Block and Bridle Club and the Collegiate Beef Team.
Loy received the Iowa Board of Regents Award for Faculty Excellence in 2012. The American Society of Animal Science named him an Extension Fellow in 2013 and presented him with the Animal Industry Service Award in 2016. Loy also received the Iowa State University Extension Distinguished Service Award in 2021.
Loy and his wife, Laurie, have three children and five grandchildren.
The Distinguished Alumnus Award will be presented during the first weekend in April. The weekend's highlight is the Penn State Stockmen’s Club banquet and the 107th annual Little International. The “Little I” livestock competition, hosted each spring by Penn State’s Block and Bridle Club, allows students to show sheep, swine, horses and beef cattle.