Christopher D. Penrose

Class of 1985
Outstanding Professional Achievement

Chris Penrose '85 was named the 2012 Distinguished Alumnus for Outstanding Professional Achievement because he exhibits the qualities of exemplary professional leadership, commitment, and personal growth that are hallmarks of Washington State College of Ohio. A man known for his dedication and vision, he has made significant contributions to the global agricultural community. He is also known for his dignity, integrity, and humanity in dealing with others.

A 1985 graduate of Washington Technical College with an Associate of Applied Arts degree in Agriculture, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science in 1988 and then a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics and Agronomy in 1991 from Ohio State University. He has been the Cooperative Extension Agent in Morgan County since 1998.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, he spent his summers in Morgan County on the family farm, which was purchased in 1825 from the Federal government. He moved permanently to the farm in 1981 where he, his wife, and two sons still live.

He has dedicated his life to the improvement and maintenance of a healthy and productive agricultural environment and to the success of those dedicated to agriculture. He is a member of numerous local, state, national, and international agriculture related boards, has written more than 300 bulletins, journal articles, reviews, abstracts, and magazine and newspaper articles on agriculture, dairy, animal husbandry, and sustainable agriculture research. He has made presentations relating to agricultural issues, advancements, and practices across the United States and in Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The winner of more than 20 honors and awards for excellence in supporting and furthering initiatives for agricultural improvements and excellence, he still finds time to be a guest lecturer at Washington State's Agribusiness Management program classes and to serve as a member of the Agribusiness Management Advisory Committee at the college.

William L. Standish

Class of 1998
Outstanding Community Service

  • Retired Banker
  • “…a real servants attitude toward his community and all those around him.”
  • Has held many leadership positions - including board seats, chairmanships, and start-up coordinator positions – in community groups and activities
  • Not an ordinary board member – leads by example and service; is a competent and valuable leader during crucial and difficult times
  • Quick to step in whenever a need arises and fills the gap when others are in need
  • “…you could be sure Bill would be where the work was being done as an example for all to follow.”
  • “…a selfless volunteer….”
  • Marietta High School Band Boosters – 11 years
  • Washington County Red Cross Board – 8 years
  • Marietta Noon Lions Club member – 12 years; president 2010-2011 (Club president and Board president 2010-2011)
  • Marietta Civitan Club member and Board member – 3 years
  • Marietta Traffic Commission Board Member – 2011 to present
  • Harvest of Hope Volunteer Food Delivery – 2010 to present
  • Christ United Methodist Church Administrative Board Member – 2008-2010
  • The Right Path volunteer – when needed