Shelby Oesterreicher Thomas is a Ph.D. student in the College of Journalism and Communications and the communications and engagement manager for the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Department of Animal Sciences (UF/IFAS ANS). She has since served as a communications coordinator for the Florida Farm Bureau Federation and a public information specialist for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Plant Industry. Shelby manages communication for UF/IFAS ANS by creating video, design, print media and content regarding research, events and education conducted by the department. She works to promote UF/IFAS ANS’s mission through outreach, promotion and education.