INDIANAPOLIS (Friday, Aug. 4, 2023/National FFA Organization) –The National FFA Organization and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Science (MANRRS) recently 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.

“As a result of nearly 40 years of organization and intentional efforts, MANRRS has earned its place as the premier recruiting venue for diverse, cultivated talent to supply the needs of government, industry, and academia in agriculture and related fields. Today we build on the MANRRS network and formalize a relationship with the National FFA Organization. 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.

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About National FFA Organization
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. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook and Twitter.

About National FFA Foundation
The National FFA Foundation builds partnerships with industry, education, government, other foundations, and individuals to secure financial resources that recognize FFA member achievements, develop student leaders, and support the future of agricultural education. Governed by a 19-member board of trustees composed of educators, business leaders, individual donors and FFA Alumni, the foundation is a separately registered nonprofit organization. About 82 percent of every dollar received by the foundation supports FFA members and agricultural education opportunities. For more, visit FFA.org/Give.