Dr. Temple Grandin

Dr. Temple Grandin has revolutionized animal handling, welfare and transportation through a career dedicated to understanding livestock behavior and improving animal care. A University Distinguished Professor of Animal Sciences at Colorado State University (CSU), she has helped livestock producers and meat processors translate research into practical industry improvements.

Grandin’s ability to view facilities from an animal’s perspective has transformed stockmanship and facility design worldwide. Her pioneering work has reduced stress, improved livestock movement and advanced humane treatment standards. She has collaborated with global companies, including Cargill, McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, Costco and Whole Foods, to improve animal handling, facility design and welfare auditing guidelines.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from Franklin Pierce University, master’s degree in animal science from Arizona State University and doctorate in animal science from the University of Illinois. Since joining CSU in 1990, she has inspired generations of students and industry professionals. Through proceeds from her books and speaking engagements, she has helped more than 20 graduate students complete their education debt-free.

An accomplished author and internationally recognized speaker, Grandin has written extensively about livestock handling, animal welfare, autism and visual thinking. Her books include “Thinking in Pictures,” “Animals in Translation” and “Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions.” In 2010, Time magazine named her one of the world’s 100 most influential people.

As an autistic scientist and advocate, Grandin champions diverse ways of thinking and learning. Her enduring legacy reflects scientific innovation, industry leadership, generosity and a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of animals and the people who care for them.