CAFNR’s Programs of Distinction recognize teams whose research, teaching and extension work improve lives and landscapes across Missouri and around the world. These programs embody Mizzou’s values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence, and we’re advancing as Missouri’s land-grant college for a healthy world.
A hallmark example is the Center for Regenerative Agriculture, where CAFNR researchers and extension experts secured Mizzou’s largest-ever grant, a $25 million USDA partnership, to expand conservation practices such as cover crops, rotational grazing and silvopasture. Working with 14 state partners, the initiative helps farmers steward soil, strengthen profitability and build resilience for generations to come.
Full List of Programs of Distinction
- Center for Tree-Ring Science advancing multidisciplinary research in fire science, climate and natural resource management
- Center for Regenerative Agriculture revitalizing soil health while strengthening farm and food production resiliency.
- Financial Research Institute providing applied research and executive education on regulated utility policy and regulation
- Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute delivering objective analysis of agricultural markets policy and economic outlooks
- Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership preparing cooperative leaders through executive education and governance training
- Interdisciplinary Plant Group fostering collaborative plant biology research and education across disciplines
- Interdisciplinary Reproduction and Health Group advancing multidisciplinary research and training in reproduction and health
- Missouri Climate Center serving Missouri through climate monitoring weather data and research‑based outreach
- MU Forage‑Livestock Group supporting sustainable livestock production through research teaching and extension
- MU Livestock Engineering Team facilitating the production of genetically engineered livestock for science medicine and agriculture
- National Center for Applied Reproduction and Genomics applying reproductive technologies and genomics to strengthen beef production
- Show‑Me‑Select™ Replacement Heifer Program improving beef herd genetics and profitability through science‑based heifer development
- University of Missouri Center for Agroforestry advancing sustainable land management through interdisciplinary agroforestry research and outreach
Together with CAFNR’s Grand Ideas, these programs generate multiple layers of impact across the state, from farms and businesses to classrooms and laboratories. They inspire students, strengthen Missouri’s workforce and advance agriculture and natural resource management for a more resilient future.
Identity
Programs of Distinction demonstrate clarity, continuity and commitment. Each must:
- Have a well-defined mission and bold, aspirational goals
- Identify a director or champion who drives collaboration and momentum
- Show five or more years of consistent, high-impact activity
- Engage a multidisciplinary team dedicated to discovery and service
- Demonstrate a scalable model for innovation and growth aligned with CAFNR’s vision
Impact
Programs must demonstrate meaningful and measurable outcomes through:
- Contributions to Missouri’s economies, communities and ecosystems
- Evidence of statewide, national or global influence through research or extension
- Partnerships that strengthen industry value chains, workforce readiness and economic development
- Engagement in solving grand challenges such as agricultural resilience and food security
- Alignment with CAFNR priorities in discovery, education and outreach
Recognition
Programs of Distinction feature recognized leaders whose expertise is sought regionally, nationally and globally. Each program should:
- Be known as a go-to authority and trusted partner in its field
- Demonstrate visibility through publications, awards or service on national committees
- Be valued by commodity groups, agencies and advisory boards for insight and leadership
- Strengthen CAFNR’s reputation for excellence and support the university’s land-grant mission
Benefits
Programs of Distinction serve as ambassadors of CAFNR excellence. In recognition of their leadership and impact, they receive:
- Representation among CAFNR’s signature contributors and public recognition
- Preferential consideration for strategic investments or resources, including personnel, major equipment and facilities
- Priority support from CAFNR advancement in fundraising and partner engagement
- Enhanced visibility through CAFNR marketing and communications
- Access to CAFNR grant management and statistical consulting services to improve competitiveness
- Leadership development and networking opportunities across CAFNR divisions
Selection: Every other year, CAFNR’s associate dean of research solicits proposals for new Programs of Distinction. The CAFNR deans and division directors review nominations based on the established criteria.
Timeline:
- Call for proposals by Nov. 15
- Submission deadline: Feb. 15
- Review completion: May 15
- New Programs of Distinction become effective: July 1
Ongoing Reporting: Program directors submit an annual executive summary (maximum two pages) by Sept. 1, detailing impacts, achievements and partnerships. CAFNR leadership reviews the summaries, and the associate dean of research provides feedback to support continuous growth and visibility.
Five-Year Review: Each program undergoes a full review every five years, coordinated by the CAFNR dean and division directors. The review includes evaluation of five consecutive annual summaries and a meeting among the director, associate dean of research and division leaders to reaffirm the program’s distinction and strategic direction.
Note: Academic degree programs are not eligible for designation as Programs of Distinction. CAFNR’s academic programs are reviewed regularly for quality, relevance and alignment with student and stakeholder needs and Missouri’s evolving agricultural landscape.