Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – Arkansas State University has received a $125,000 commitment from Farm Credit Mid-America to support transformative learning opportunities that help students extend their education beyond the classroom.

These experiences include clubs, travel, entrepreneurial activities, research and discovery, as well as increased interaction between students and professionals in the credit and financial services sector. Each opportunity reflects A-State’s focus on helping students connect classroom learning with real-world examples and agricultural leadership pathways.

Farm Credit Mid-America’s investment will strengthen the College of Agriculture’s theme of “Beyond the Classroom Experiences” and expand activities such as farm tours, travel opportunities, research projects, entrepreneurial initiatives and engagement with agricultural and financial industry professionals.

“We’re honored to invest in the future of agriculture by supporting ‘Beyond the Classroom Experiences’ at Arkansas State’s College of Agriculture,” said Mike Williams, regional vice president agricultural lending at Farm Credit Mid-America. “This investment is one example of our shared commitment to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders, which serves to strengthen rural communities and ensure a more vibrant future for our industry.”

Established in 2020, the College of Agriculture’s strategic plan emphasizes expanding beyond-the-classroom and leadership experiences. Students today are engaged in research, leadership development, and hands-on learning. The Farm Credit Mid-America investment will deepen their understanding of innovation, finance and sustainability.

“Farm Credit Mid-America’s support of ‘Beyond the Classroom Experiences’ helps us create exceptional opportunities that prepare students to be leaders in the agricultural industry,” said Dr. Mickey A. Latour, dean of the College of Agriculture (CoA). “This partnership provides meaningful connections between our students and the professionals who are shaping the future of agriculture. It’s another step toward ensuring that A-State graduates are not only career-ready but community-ready.”

Dr. Hunter Burnett, assistant professor of animal science, who will oversee the travel component of the investment, said the additional support will help expand access to experiences that make a lasting impact on students.

“Students crave outside-of-the-classroom experiences and opportunities that set them apart or set them up for success beyond in the future workplace,” Burnett said. “As faculty, we want to provide as many opportunities as possible for these students, but it is challenging to do so on a limited budget. This opportunity, provided by Farm Credit Mid-America, allows the financial freedom for students to travel to conferences, present research, or promote A-State and the CoA.”

Farm Credit Mid-America’s mission to secure the future of rural communities and agriculture aligns closely with the college’s goals. Many A-State agriculture students come from rural backgrounds and aspire to return to their home communities to advance agricultural innovation and leadership. 

“Partnerships like this highlight the vital connection between higher education and industry,” Latour added. “We are deeply grateful for Farm Credit Mid-America’s investment in our students and their belief in the work we’re doing through the Agricultural Academy.”

For more information about this and other opportunities to give at A‑State, contact the Office of Development at 870-972-3940 or development@AState.edu.