Grace Neller

I grew up in Spotsylvania, Virginia, and currently reside in Bedford, Virginia, where we operate a small-scale cow–calf operation. My passion for agriculture developed early, but coming from a county with limited opportunities, I sought out new experiences and transferred to Virginia Tech in Spring 2022 to complete my undergraduate studies. I earned my B.S. in Animal & Poultry Sciences from Virginia Tech in Spring 2024. Following graduation, I spent a year teaching high school agriculture before joining the Virginia Department of Agriculture as a USDA Meat and Poultry Inspector. While these roles were rewarding, I realized how much I missed being in the classroom and actively engaged in learning—an insight that ultimately drew me back to Virginia Tech to pursue graduate study.

I am currently working under Dr. Tatiane Fernandes, where our research focuses on using isotopic approaches to evaluate animal metabolism, as well as in vitro techniques to assess rumen products and the effects of dietary additives. My overall goal is to expand my knowledge of bovine nutrition and reproduction while preparing for future opportunities in the livestock industry. Outside of academics, I enjoy training my working-line Labrador Retrievers, hunting, spending time with family and friends, and working on the farm when I am back home.