The new student housing at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte, has been named for Don and Gloria Clanton.
Dr. Don Clanton, a professor emeritus of animal science, died Dec. 8, 2025, and had a significant impact on beef research in western Nebraska and beyond. The NU Board of Regents approved the naming in Clanton’s honor during its February meeting.
Clanton began his career at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in the Department of Animal Science in 1958. He became the beef cattle research program leader in 1966 at the UNL North Platte Station, now known as the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center.
After moving to North Platte, Clanton began to envision his lifelong dream of establishing a working research ranch. Through numerous proposals and more than 20 years of dedication, he helped establish the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory in collaboration with colleagues from various disciplines.
Following the establishment of the internationally recognized research facility, Clanton was named coordinator for beef cattle and range research at GSL in 1981.
In addition to his research, Clanton advised 14 master’s students and 14 doctoral students during his career. He considered his work with graduate students to be one of his greatest accomplishments.
“There were other students before me and a number of students after me, and I think almost all of them would say that Don’s practical application of science really made a difference in their careers,” said Jack Whittier, professor emeritus of animal science and a former graduate student of Clanton.
During his career, Clanton received numerous prestigious awards, but he most valued recognition connected to his students.
Clanton kept a plaque he received from graduate students at the 2010 Grazing Livestock Nutrition Conference, recognizing his foresight and example. He also kept a replica of a plaque gifted by former graduate student Jerry Jensen on his wheelchair and walker.
“The biggest thing he was proud of was his graduate students,” said Willo Auger, Clanton’s daughter.
The dedication of the student house honors Clanton’s work and his commitment to students. The name also pays tribute to his wife, Gloria Clanton.
“It was important to have Mom’s name in the title. If you talk to a lot of these ranchers out there, they would fall apart if it wasn’t for the wife,” said Chuck Clanton, his son. “They are the unsung heroes, and the things they had to sacrifice to keep the ranch going, that was kind of the same way with Gloria.”
The student house increases the space available at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center for students visiting for graduate research or internships. The housing will support current and future students as they expand their knowledge through agricultural research and outreach opportunities.
With this dedication, Clanton’s impact will continue through students who dedicate their time to research and advancing the agricultural industry.
“Don’s greatest joy was seeing students advance and learn and go on to apply some of the things he helped them prepare for,” said Loren Berger, a close colleague of Clanton.
To honor and continue his life’s work, the family requests that donations be made to the University of Nebraska Foundation for the Don and Gloria Clanton Fund for GSL Research (Fund No. 01140790).
