Originally from a small farm in Arkansas, Dr. Mickey Ransom was fond of math and science courses as a student. It was his experiences throughout his education that would eventually lead him back to a career in education.

Dr. Ransom graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from the University of Arkansas in 1974. He continued his education when he completed a Masters of Agronomy in Soil Science from the University of Arkansas in 1976. Dr. Ransom began his professional experience in the USDA by conducting soil surveys in southern Arkansas. In 1984 Dr. Ransom completed his Ph.D. work in Soil Genesis, Classification and Mineralogy from Ohio State University. After gaining his PhD, Dr. Ransom joined the Agronomy faculty at K-State.

In his career at K-State Dr. Ransom has been involved in nearly every aspect of the college experience. In addition to teaching and serving as Assistant Department Head for Teaching, Dr. Ransom has also invested in students through experiential learning as the Soil Judging Team coach. The team has experienced success under his guidance. Dr. Ransom said it is an opportunity for students to travel and see soils and landscapes in different locations.

“I think it is fun for students and a good environment for them to learn in,” Dr. Ransom said.
From the beginning Dr. Ransom did not envision his career path to end up where it has taken him. From his years as an educator, he offers this piece of advice:

“Be open minded,” Dr. Ransom said. “Realize that college is an educational opportunity that certainly leads to a career path – but don’t become too narrowly focused on what you believe that path will be.”
Dr. Ransom is now full of purple pride. He is found sporting his loyalty at football and both men’s and women’s basketball games. He shares this passion with his wife, who is also an instructor of English at K-State. Dr. Ransom is also proud to be involved in the lives of their two children. During the summer and fall he spends some of his time enjoying a competitive game of softball through the Men’s and Co-Ed recreational league.