Established by his three daughters, the Dr. P.L. Senger Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved professor, mentor, and textbook author who dedicated more than 30 years to teaching and advancing the field of reproductive physiology. Dr. Senger authored Pathways to Pregnancy and Parturition, a widely used textbook, and was recognized throughout his career with numerous awards for excellence in teaching, including student-nominated honors and faculty achievement awards.
Though he didn’t begin his academic journey with strong grades or a clear direction, Dr. Senger credited a series of dedicated mentors for helping shape his growth and success. His experience deeply influenced his own approach as an educator. He became a devoted professor and coach to countless students. He was known for his high standards and energy, unwavering encouragement, and belief in their potential.
Students of Dr. Senger will remember his signature oral exams and his insistence on identifying a “take-home message.” He used these tools to ensure students truly understood the material and could apply it. He challenged his students not just to study, but to think critically, to care deeply, and to take ownership of their learning. The Dr. P.L. Senger Memorial Scholarship supports students in the Animal Sciences department who demonstrate promise, persistence, and a passion for learning. This scholarship is especially those who may need a reminder that growth is always possible. His hope for recipients would be that they lean into their experience with passion, not get discouraged if their assigned score is low, and find a way to cement foundational knowledge in their field. He would want students to trust the process, stay curious, and keep going.