Investing in Programs

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences programs bring together teaching, research and extension to explore solutions to the challenges facing Iowa, the nation and the world.

The college is focusing on programs that demonstrate national or international distinction, such as the renowned Seed Science Center; and those that enhance the competitiveness of individuals and businesses, such as the endowed egg industry program.

Other programs ripe for investment will foster collaboration among students and faculty mentors and erase the borders between traditional disciplines:

• The Agricultural Entrepreneurship Initiative incorporates academic and hands-on experiences to prepare students to create and pursue business opportunities that diversify and strengthen the agricultural community. Private gifts will increase scholarships, support for faculty mentors and advisors, and student interactions with business developers and start-up companies.
  
• The Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods empowers people in developing countries to improve their quality of life. Through internships, fellowships and service learning projects, students from many majors discover firsthand what it means to tackle some of the world’s most significant problems.
  
• Science with Practice provides undergraduate students with opportunities for meaningful paid internships while earning class credit. Private gifts will help expand new opportunities to attract and support promising young scientists.
  
• The Ag450 Farm is an example, unique in the nation, of college students managing the day-to-day operations of an agricultural enterprise. Private gifts will help endow the program to ensure experiential learning continues into an exciting new era of agriculture.