Branding cattle dates to ancient civilizations, who used hot irons to mark their livestock. This practice spread globally, with Spanish settlers introducing it to the Americas in the 16th century. American cowboys and Native American tribes adopted and adapted these techniques, making branding an integral part of Western ranching culture to establish ownership and as a form of record keeping. To avoid duplicating brands, variations of brands like crazy, lazy, flying, running and walking soon populated the West to ensure that a ranch’s insignia stood out.
Cultural Values and Ranch Legacy: Branding cattle is deeply rooted in tradition, symbolizing heritage and commitment to ranching life. Unique brands represent family history and pride, connecting generations and reinforcing values such as hard work, resilience, and land stewardship. This practice fosters a strong sense of identity and continuity within ranching communities.
Departmental Values: Our values in the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences are associated with our Arc-M brand. This brand was originally adapted from the Flying M logo used by MSU Athletics to support the Space Race of the 1960’s. The College of Engineering, under Dean Harry Simrall, developed the Flying M logo in the 1960’s to signify “Propulsion Toward Excellence” and the university’s involvement in research advancing the understanding of aerodynamics. In 1975, the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences officially registered our Animal Research Center brand, or Arc-M brand.
• Absolute Integrity: Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
• Relentlessly Driven: Determined to achieve.
• Cutting Edge: Respecting tradition while driving innovation.
• Mindful Stewards: Taking care of people, animals and the environment.
Importance of Developing Lasting Relationships with Students: In the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, building lasting relationships with students is crucial. It enhances their educational experience, provides mentorship opportunities, and fosters a supportive learning environment. These relationships help students develop professionally and personally, preparing them for successful careers in the industry. The department strives to create an environment rich in experiential learning opportunities. We create a feeling of belonging as we welcome students to our Herd with a Welcome Back Picnic and a more personalized graduation experience with our Graduation Breakfast.
Add your Brand to our Wall and Establish your Legacy in ADS: The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences would like to extend the opportunity to our alumni and other stakeholders to celebrate the value of your brand with your contribution to our ADS Enrichment Fund to support student related activities to promote the value of our brand.
Three options are:
• Industry Association or Company ($2500) on an individual 11 x 14 in wooden plaque with a laser etch of your logo and a leather name plate with up to 3 lines of text.
• Individual Farm/Ranch ($1500) on an individual 8 x 10 in wooden plaque with a laser etch of your brand and a leather name plate with two lines of text to identify your farm/ranch name and establishment date.
• Individual Support ($500) on a combined 16 x 24 in wooden plaque with up to 3 lines of text on a leather tag (3.5 x 1.25 inches)
Please enter “Build Your Brand Campaign” in the Comments line below and email a .jpeg or .png file with a digital image of your logo and what should be printed on the leather tag to Taylor Halford at
qtv2@msstate.edu. She will reach out to confirm the information and then follow up with a mock up of the plaque before it is printed.