March 16, 2004
Iowa State University is one of the sponsors for the 19th national Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) conference to be held at the Polk County Convention Center in Des Moines March 25-27. The conference is expected to attract more than 800 students and professionals.
MANRRS is a national society that includes all racial and ethnic groups with chapters at several colleges and universities. There are 35 members in the MANRRS chapter in the College of Agriculture at Iowa State, which is one of 54 groups nationwide. Iowa State students and faculty have been involved in the planning of the conference and will assist with campus sessions and conference activities.
"Students find participating in MANRRS provides a welcoming environment, helps them to explore leadership development, educational opportunities, careers and internships," said Mary de Baca, coordinator for the diversity program in the College of Agriculture.
The annual conference is one way that MANRRS students learn more about careers in agriculture and the natural resources. During the conference attendees will participate in a variety of professional development activities, including a career fair with over 90 companies, universities and organizations represented.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for students and professionals from throughout the nation to experience Iowa and Iowa State University," said Catherine Woteki, dean of the College of Agriculture. "My hope is to increase awareness about the diverse educational opportunities and careers available in agricultural, food, environmental and other sciences."
During a campus visit on March 25, students will have the chance to participate in hands-on activities in 15 different sessions at Iowa State. Students will visit labs, experience the butterfly wing at Reiman Gardens, learn about plant genomics, see a virtual tornado and learn about internships, graduate studies and career opportunities. During the visit participants also will discover more about George Washington Carver, one of Iowa State's famous alumni, and his contributions to society.
Other cosponsors for the conference are Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc., Deere and Co. and Cargill Inc.
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Editor's note: Profiles of three Iowa State University MANRRS students are available at http://www.ag.iastate.edu/. Photos are available upon request.