It’s been a wonderful month for me as the Vice Chancellor and Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. With so many to meet, so much to see, and so many opportunities to pursue – the days have been full.

As of 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 7, I attended every Field Day event at each of our research centers around the state. What a wonderful experience to meet with great leaders, listen to concerns and ideas, witness innovation, and understand the heart and commitment for the important work happening at our CAFNR research centers. Work that impacts the future of our Missouri citizenry and the world – its health and sustainability. I returned to the college after every visit, challenged and inspired…honored to support and represent our people, programs, and partners.

Closer to home, Katie and I enjoyed a lovely evening hosted by the Wennekers, where we met many devoted CAFNR supporters in the Columbia community and beyond. Sincere thanks to Carolyn and Robin for their hospitality and generosity.

Looking ahead, I am excited to launch a new tradition for our college, NovemberFest! I will share a CAFNR update on what I’ve learned after nearly four months on the job. Afterward, all of you are invited to jump-start the Thanksgiving Holiday with a Taste of CAFNR social that will feature specialty foods from our campus and state. Then in December, CAFNR will welcome Chancellor Cartwright for a brief visit to interact with faculty, staff and students, and learn more about our tremendous college.

Thank you for all you do every day to help make this college distinctive.

CAFNR Proud!

Christopher R. Daubert
Vice Chancellor and Dean

Encourage Your Students to Attend
Tuesday, Oct. 24: “Negotiating Your First Salary” Workshop, 2-16 Agriculture Building, 5-6 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 30: “How to Evaluate an Employer” Workshop, 2-43 Agriculture Building, 4-5 p.m.

Say Hello To
Lindsey Rebholz will be on campus Tuesday, Oct. 24, to meet with specific faculty regarding career opportunities with Amazon.

Jeff Wasson will be on campus Thursday, Nov. 2, and Friday, Nov. 3, as our fall 2017 Executive-in-Residence.

Don’t Miss
Annual Enrollment for medical insurance is now open and goes until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 27. For more information, or to complete enrollment, visit the Annual Enrollment webpage.

NovemberFest will be held from 3-5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, in 2-16 Ag Building. I will present a State of the College address, followed by the “Taste of CAFNR,” featuring specialty foods from our campus and state.

Did You Know…

• Four CAFNR degree programs experienced stable enrollment or enrollment increases from fall 2016.
• Our one-year retention of 89.1% (fall 2016 cohort) tied our all-time high (fall 2014 and 2015) and was highest among Mizzou colleges/schools with open access for first-time college students and second highest overall.
• Our six-year graduation rates (CAFNR, 74.1% and SNR, 72.8%) remain near the top of MU colleges/schools.
• The University of Missouri is ranked No. 1 in the 2018 Top Online Colleges for Master’s in Environmental Science. This recognition is based on the master’s degree in natural resources (agroforestry emphasis) online program.

Join me for Dean’s Roaming Office Hours, Thursday, Oct. 26, from 3:30-5 p.m. in Mumford Hall’s main floor foyer.