Dillon Davidson Took a Great Idea — and Ran with It
Dillon Davidson took Wilmington College’s hallmark for hands-on learning to new heights in bringing the legendary Temple Grandin to campus in late March.
(PICTURED) WC senior Dillon Davidson poses with Temple Grandin during her book signing session prior to her first of two lectures.
He transformed a pipe dream into reality by using a toolbox of skills that will serve him well as he embarks upon a career in international agriculture: research, charm, tenacity, using available resources and presenting convincing arguments to persons with ways and means.
Grandin, a professor of animal science at Colorado State University and the author of 12 books, is well known for her autism activism and as an advocate for animal health and wellbeing. She gave two lectures March 28, both of which filled Heiland Theatre to capacity.
Davidson established a relationship with Grandin, whom he contacted personally in convincing her to visit WC. He worked directly with securing her speaking fees, travel logistics and campus itinerary, the latter of which included visits to WC’s agriculture facilities and meeting its students.
Davidson, a graduating senior from Upper Sandusky, was impressed with the 2010 biographical drama, Temple Grandin, which aired on HBO and starred Claire Danes in the title role. He later learned more about Grandin’s advocacy work with autism and her writings on the flight zone and other principles of grazing animal behavior, which she employed in producing strategies for reducing the stress experienced by livestock.
“It was a tremendous, once-in-a-lifetime experience getting to work with her one-on-one,” Davidson said, noting that, on the ride to WC from the airport, he pelted Grandin with questions about the film and her life: She said, ‘That only happened in the movie and this happened there and in real life.’”
The two became quick friends and even sang songs together en route to the College.
Davidson, in an interview on Ag Net Radio in April, also said he would give Wilmington College and its Agriculture Dept. “a 10 out of 10” for the education and experiences he’s had at WC.
“I would not have been able to have done the things I did or be where I am without the agriculture faculty and my adviser — they have been there for me since day one,” he said. “And the students have been great, everybody’s there to help each other. This is like a family and like a home.”