I am thrilled to welcome everyone back to campus for the 2022-23 academic year! The atmosphere on campus is much more exciting when our students, faculty and staff are all interacting on a daily basis. I hope each of you have an enjoyable and successful year!

Many of our students were very busy this summer, taking part in numerous internship opportunities. Experiential learning is a key part of the RISE Initiative, where students gain important real-world learning experiences outside our classrooms and learning labs.

I am also delighted to announce that CAFNR received nearly $700,000 in campus support for numerous “Enhancing Student Success” proposals last year. A total of nine projects were approved, with each of our six divisions being represented. With various cost-shares and other contributions, we are investing more than $1.3 million to enhance students’ learning experiences. These updates are vital as we continue to prepare our students for career success.

Bryan Garton
Senior Associate Dean
Director of Academic Programs

Fall Round-Up Event Scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 31

Students are invited to learn more about the 40-plus CAFNR clubs and organizations during the CAFNR Fall Round-Up event at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 31, in the Trowbridge Event Center. Each of CAFNR’s 14 degree programs have activities tailored to its students, in addition to many college-wide opportunities. Getting involved is a great way to expand on classroom learning, meet others with similar interests — and have some fun along the way!

The Fall 2022 CAFNR/Arts and Science Career Fair is scheduled from 12-4 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 3, in the Mizzou Rec Center. All Mizzou students are welcome to participate. Interested students can visit Handshake to see a complete list of registered organizations and download the Career Fair Plus app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android). Professional attire is required.

CAFNR has two upcoming winter break study abroad programs for interested students: Costa Rica and Italy.

Costa Rica: By experiencing a variety of specific ecosystems first-hand, students will learn about broad principles of forest ecology, the challenges with conservation of natural resources in Costa Rica, and current projects focused on restoration of important ecological systems. Well-known for its diversity of habitats and species, Costa Rica offers an ideal setting for immersion into complex and highly biodiverse forest ecosystems. Applications are due Oct. 1.

Italy: Gain knowledge on the causes, measurement, and consequences of food insecurity in the world in addition to remedies proposed and actions taken to end hunger. Learn about Italy’s special role in addressing sustainability in the food system and developing solutions to the age-old problem of hunger. Applications are due Oct. 1.

First MANRRS Meeting Scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 31

The University of Missouri Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) Chapter will host its first meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 31, in room 123 of the Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building (ABNR). MANRRS pledges to work for the inclusion, achievement and advancement of all people in agriculture and the related sciences. Stop by to learn about the great opportunities available for members of the organization. Samniqueka Halsey, an assistant professor in the School of Natural Resources, serves as the faculty advisor for the club.

Jalani Williams’ internship with Special Olympics Missouri allows him to connect with athletes, showcase exciting events

Kristen Barwick, junior biochemistry major, secured two national awards this summer

Fusinatto serves as an academic advisor for the parks, recreation and sport degree program