by Natalie Jones | IANR Communications
Lincoln, Neb., May 16, 2024— Coming from a small school in rural southwest Nebraska with just 17 classmates, Karlie Gerlach will be graduating with highest distinction with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communication, along with minors in Agricultural Leadership and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program, from the College of Agricultural & Natural Resources on Saturday.
The city of Lincoln is a far cry from Wellfleet, where she grew up on the family farm raising and showing livestock in 4-H and FFA in Lincoln County. However, the close-knit community of CASNR and East Campus made all the difference in her transition. The supportive environment helped her feel at home, providing a sense of belonging and connection that was crucial to her success, especially as she started her college career during COVID.
“The best part about being a Husker is definitely the community. It’s insane to me how there's able to be such a small town in such a big city,” said Gerlach.
“It makes it so much easier for all these small-town kids in Nebraska to come to UNL, learn what they need to learn at the College of Ag, and take that back to whether it's their operations or family businesses, or just communicate it back to their communities to help them grow.”
Reflecting on her early experiences with the university, Karlie credits her strong involvement in showing livestock in 4-H and her great relationship with her local extension educator as pivotal. Her decision to attend Nebraska was influenced by family, as well, with her dad and older brother, who are both alumni.
Karlie vividly remembers the moment she knew she wanted a career in agricultural communications. It was during a showmanship competition at the Lincoln County Fair in North Platte when a judge asked her about the most impactful issue in the swine industry. “In FFA, I had written a speech about the impact of African swine fever, outlining the early signs and everything, and I just talked his ear off. I realized how crucial it was to share that information,” she recalled.
During her time at Nebraska, Karlie’s dedication to her field only grew stronger. She became actively involved in Sigma Alpha and the Engler program, which allowed her to deepen her understanding of agricultural leadership and entrepreneurship. Mentorship was a critical component of her journey. Figures in the Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communication Department, including faculty members Heather Akin and Laura Young, were pivotal in shaping her career path. Their guidance, from navigating college classes to achieving high distinctions, helped Karlie make informed decisions about her future.
Karlie’s early experiences forged a strong foundation in agricultural practices and community involvement. She spent a summer locally as a communications intern for the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte. Shortly after, she joined the Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources (IANR) Communications office on East Campus, where she gained practical insights into the complexities of agricultural communication. As a full-time student, Karlie worked hard to hone her skills in interviewing, writing, photography, videography, social media strategy, web management, and more.
“IANR Communications really helped me progress and reach new heights. Knowing and recognizing different names within the university, networking, and being able to leverage my resources and experience here at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is something I’m proud of. I know I definitely would not be where I am today without my time in the IANR Communications office,” Karlie said.
Looking ahead, Karlie is set to continue her legacy of leadership and service in agricultural communications. As she reflects on her time at UNL, she is proud of the connections she's made and the knowledge she's gained—tools she plans to take back to her community to foster growth and resilience. After graduation, Karlie will return to rural Nebraska in Lincoln County to work as the communications specialist at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte.
As she moves forward, Karlie carries with her the spirit of a true Husker—rooted in community, enriched by education, and ready to lead in the world of agriculture.