The National FFA Organization and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Science (MANRRS) have signed a memorandum of understanding to create a formative alliance with the shared goal of growing diversity, equity and inclusion in the industry of agriculture.
“One of our goals at the National FFA Organization is to partner with like-minded organizations to expand our collective impact on agriculture, food and natural resources, especially with underrepresented and marginalized populations,” said Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. “This partnership with MANRRS will be a catalyst for advancing our shared goals.”
As a result of the MOU, FFA and MANRRS will work together to build a more equitable, diverse and inclusive talent pipeline for agriculture.
» LEARN MORE: Read more about Diversity in Agriculture here.
MANRRS was founded in 1892 and is a national secondary and post-secondary student organization that promotes academic and professional advancement by empowering minorities in various food and environmental fields. The group provides an opportunity for many walks of life, cultures, and identities to have access to agriculture, to have access to mentorship, and to have access to a family of people who share in your identity.
“There is a critical need for synergizing efforts to improve the prospects of an equitable and inclusive future. This MOU is an exciting step in that process because if we want to impart real change in the world, we must welcome everyone to the process,” said Dr. Derris Burnett, MANRRS national president. “This shared approach between MANRRS and FFA is important for making agriculture more accessible, removing barriers for young people and supporting the advancement of NextGen careers in the industry.”
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 850,000 student members as part of 8,995 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
