Mellissa Crosswhite

Mellissa Crosswhite is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at Oklahoma State University, where she focuses on applied ruminant reproductive physiology, particularly in beef cattle and on-farm research. She holds a PhD in Animal Sciences from North Dakota State University (2017), an MS (2014), and a BS from the University of Florida (2012). Her teaching responsibilities include courses on livestock anatomy and physiology, animal growth, and professional development. She also advises undergraduate students and leads organizations such as Sigma Alpha and the Oklahoma Collegiate Cattlemen's Association.

Her research explores reproductive success in livestock, with a focus on hormonal interventions and nutritional impacts during gestation. Recent work includes optimizing estrus synchronization protocols and studying the effects of trace minerals on pregnancy outcomes. She has secured funding from the USDA NCR-SARE for projects like the 'Effects of pre-breeding administration of injectable trace mineral supplements on subsequent reproductive performance in beef herds.'

Teaching methodologies emphasize active learning and peer-led teams to enhance student engagement. Her scholarly contributions span 15+ peer-reviewed articles, focusing on topics like CIDR device efficacy, opioid pharmacology in veterinary contexts, and cultural intelligence in agricultural education.