Q&A with ASTE faculty member Debra Spielmaker

1. Where did you grow up? My family moved from Southern California when I was 11. I have lived in Utah (I am an alumni of Bingham High School), all but two years since then.

2. What Universities did you get your degree(s) from and why did you choose to go there? Both graduate and undergraduate USU.

3. What got you interested in Ag? My high school ag teacher

4. What do you want to achieve while here at Utah State University? I think everyone wants to make a difference. I work in the area of agricultural literacy, it would be great if everyone understood the importance of agriculture and how agriculture affects ones quality of life, but until then I have some job security.

5. What are some of your hobbies? Playing hockey, mountain biking, gardening, and cooking.

6. What is your favorite food? Anything ethnic, really.

7. Who has had the biggest influence in your life? High school debate teacher

8. Where is your favorite vacation spot? Hawaii followed by almost any other sunny beach.

9. What is your favorite season? Summer

10. Do you have a favorite quote, if so what is it? It changes from time to time; right now I would say “Cooking is the great divide between good eating and bad.” Barabara Kingsolver