College Of Agriculture Honors Six Distinguished Ag Alumni In 2025

By Andi Anderson

The College of Agriculture celebrated excellence on September 19, 2025, recognizing six accomplished graduates as Distinguished Agricultural Alumni.

Their work spans science, global industry, education, and farm-focused leadership, reflecting the breadth of modern agriculture and its impact on communities.

Jianhua Yu (PhD 2003) is a professor and cancer researcher whose expertise in immunology, molecular and cell biology, and translational science advances new ways to fight disease.

At the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, he directs centers focused on precision cancer therapeutics and immuno-oncology, turning lab discoveries into patient-ready solutions.

Scott Mitchell (MS 1992) leads Sumitomo Chemical America as president and CEO, guiding operations across the Americas. His career—from sales roles to global leadership—demonstrates how agricultural economics informs strategy in chemicals, materials, health, and crop sciences. He remains an active mentor and supporter of student learning.

Sasha Ilyukhin (MS 2000), a senior vice president at Tetra Pak, helped the food industry transition from analog to digital process control. Building on research completed as a graduate student, he now oversees outcome-based solutions delivered by hundreds of professionals, keeping food processing efficient, safe, and innovative.

Duane Huge (BS 1985) spent nearly four decades teaching high school agriculture before coordinating a statewide program to mentor new ag teachers. His leadership in the Mentoring Indiana Beginning Agriculture Teacher Program helps strengthen the pipeline of educators serving more than 350 agriculture programs across the state.

Heather Hill (BS 1999) co-owns and operates Hill Farms LLC, producing corn, soybeans, wheat, and hogs. With experience in lending and animal health, and leadership roles at Indiana Pork and the National Pork Board, she champions responsible animal care and practical, farm-level innovation.

Bobby Corrigan (BS 1977, MS 1980, PhD 1995), a renowned “rodentologist,” designs environmentally sensitive rodent management programs for cities, airports, campuses, and businesses across the U.S. and abroad. His applied research and training protect food systems, public health, and urban infrastructure.

Together, these honorees exemplify how agricultural training powers breakthroughs in science, strengthens industry, supports educators, and sustains farm communities.

Photo Credit: purdue-university