Agribusiness Conference Attracts 450 to A-State for 20th Annual Event
JONESBORO – Approximately 450 people participated today in the 20th annual Agribusiness Conference, conducted by the College of Agriculture and Technology at Arkansas State University.
Experts from the agricultural industry annually present timely updates on the business of agriculture, with the recently adopted federal Farm Bill and its potential impact on production decisions getting lots of attention this year.
Dr. Bert Greenwalt, professor of agricultural economics and director of the conference, was recognized for his outstanding service to the college and the university and for his leadership and contributions to making the conference a long-term success.
Greenwalt has directed the conference each year since its inception. The surprise recognition by Dr. Tim Burcham, dean, and Dana Brooks, one of Greenwalt’s former students and a conference speaker this year, included a book of congratulatory letters to the veteran professor from students and conference participants, as well as a plaque.
A large number of students who major in one of the programs offered through the College of Agriculture and Technology were in attendance, and also heard Brooks present a motivational address at the luncheon. Brooks is now director of U.S. and Canada governmental relations for Elanco in Washington, D. C.
The A-State alumna encouraged students to grasp every opportunity possible to enhance their educational experience and career. She recalled assisting as a student with the first Agribusiness Conference and the positive influence of her experience in the College of Agriculture and Technology.
Joining the College of Agriculture & Technology as conference sponsors this year were: Judd Hill Foundation, Allenberg Cotton Company, AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, Arkansas Farm Bureau, Craighead County Farm Bureau, and Poinsett County Farm Bureau, Bunge North America, Busch Agricultural Resources, Glaub Farm Management, Farm Credit Midsouth, Greenway Equipment, Inc., Helena Chemical Company, Heritage Bank, Riceland Foods, Inc., RiceTec, Inc., and the USA Rice Federation.
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Dr. Bert Greenwalt receives a recognition plaque for his leadership with the Agribusiness Conference from Dr. Tim Burcham, dean of the College of Agriculture and Technology.
