LEADERSHIP IN LIVESTOCK ENTERPRISES AND AGRICULTURAL DISCIPLINES (LEAD)

Objectives include: 1) Designing a full Livestock Production and Management (LP&M) program that leads to an AAS degree, as well as a Technical Certificate in Farm Management and stackable credentials; 2) Preparing LP&M students for roles in agriculture through leadership development and mentoring; and 3) Enhancing UA Cossatot's recruitment and retention services to support underrepresented students seeking careers in livestock management. Planned activities are aligned with the following HSI Education Priority Need Areas: 1) Attract and support underrepresented undergraduate students to prepare them for FANH-related careers; 2) Enhance the quality of postsecondary instruction; and 3) Provide opportunities and access to food and agricultural careers in the public, non-profit and private sectors. Working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), as well as local farms and ranches, LEAD will prepare future Arkansas farmers and agricultural professionals to navigate industry-related challenges and be leaders in their respective fields.