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Environment—It's both the natural world that we live in and the conditions that surround us and affect the way we live.
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Randy Woodson, Dean of Agriculture |
At Purdue Agriculture, environment plays a central role in our discovery, learning and engagement programs—whether it's improving the quality of natural and urban environments, fostering an environment of support for economic development and job growth, or providing a learning environment with world-class educational experiences and enhanced career opportunities.
This issue of Agricultures magazine highlights some examples of how we are contributing to these environments.
One of our strategic goals is to expand research in environmental sciences through collaboration with other disciplines at Purdue. Our joint endeavors combine intellectual resources and allow for broader-based solutions to environmental problems. This multi-discipline initiative took a big step forward last year with the creation of the Purdue Climate Change Research Center (“Heat wave?”). Researchers from across the university, including many from Purdue Agriculture, are working to increase our understanding of climate change and to mitigate its environmental and economic impacts.
A top priority in Extension is supporting economic development efforts in the state. The combined effects of a recession, a global marketplace and lost tax revenue have necessitated changes in the way Indiana does business. Through information, consultation and technical expertise, Purdue Extension helps communities generate new-economy jobs, teaches entrepreneurs how to evaluate the feasibility of new ventures, and provides educational programs to prepare a transitioning workforce (“Indiana's edge”).
We offer students an experiential learning environment that prepares them for success in their chosen professions and instills a service ethic of giving back to their communities for the betterment of citizens and the state (“Follow the leaders”).
We are committed to these cornerstones of the land-grant mission and to improving the way we live and learn. This is the environment of Purdue Agriculture.
Randy Woodson
Dean of Agriculture
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