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We have had a busy couple of weeks, with exciting news across the college in student success, research and innovation, and in extension initiatives. The U.S. Farm Report kicked off their annual College Roadshow at Mizzou on Sept. 6, with a taping of the show featuring CAFNR alum Tyne Morgan. During the live taping, student groups watched a panel discussion featuring Scott Brown, associate extension professor and interim director of the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center; Pat Westhoff, director of the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute; and Ben Brown, senior research associate in agricultural and applied economics, moderated by Tyne. With donations from Beck’s Hybrids and other industry and university donors, student organizations won prize money for the best sign at the live taping, highest attendance, and most spirit. Before the taping, student groups also entered Beck’s “Pay It Forward” Challenge by creating a video showcasing how their organization helps others. This event is an incredible showcase of CAFNR’s expertise, as well as a great experience for students to learn more about the industry – and show that Mizzou spirit! The next day, we were proud to learn that the UM System Curators approved the naming of a new institute in our School of Natural Resources for Johnny Morris, the founder of Bass Pro Shops, and internationally recognized for his commitment to natural resources and stewardship. The newly-named Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems was established in March 2023, and trains the next generation of environmental scientists, keeping Missouri watersheds healthy and sustainable. The institute — a partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) and our College — was made possible through an MCHF endowment supported by a leadership gift from Mr. Morris. In addition, last week we welcomed the first autonomous tractor to CAFNR, Mizzou – and perhaps even the Midwest – as part of a partnership with the College of Engineering and a grant from the USDA’s Equipment Grants Program! This Monarch MK-V autonomous electric tractor will be studied for its ability to refine agricultural practices and support farmers with disabilities, and used as a tool for teaching, research, and extension. We are excited for the opportunity to study the possibilities with this new technology – and be a leader in this digital agriculture space across the country! To finish out this month I will: - Visit with alumni and friends at the CAFNR Tiger Classic golf tournament
- Celebrate the industry that is our state’s biggest economic driver at the Ag Day football game
- Attend Dean’s Council meetings
- Meet with our CAFNR Foundation leadership
- Continue visiting with Divisional faculty at fall meetings
- Participate in meetings with the Meat Science Training Lab Steering Committee
- Co-chair the Vice Chancellor for Extension & Engagement search
- Attend the Kansas City Agribusiness Council’s Ag Outlook Forum
- Share a welcome at the Financial Research Institute Symposium Reception
- Attend the President’s Campus Leadership Semester Social & Update
- Participate in Institute of Food Technologists board meetings
- Help reintroduce CAFNR Showcase at South Farm to the Columbia community!
Please mark your calendars for CAFNR Week, Oct. 2-6, where we celebrate CAFNR students and our College! That week will also include the Fall CAFNR/Arts & Science Career Fair as well as our 3rd Annual CAFNR Research Symposium, featuring Keynote Speaker Manjit K. Misra, NIFA director and CAFNR alumnus. Much to enjoy and celebrate that week! CAFNR Proud, Christopher R. Daubert, Ph.D.
CAFNR Vice Chancellor & Dean |
