News Release

The deadline is fast approaching for Missouri high school students interested in participating in the 2013 Missouri Agribusiness Academy. The Academy, a program of the Missouri Department of Agriculture, gives 30 high school sophomores from throughout Missouri the opportunity to explore agriculture-related college degrees and careers for a week in June. Applications are available online at mda.mo.gov and are due no later than February 1, 2013.

"The Agribusiness Academy is an opportunity for the next generation of agriculturalists in our state to sit down with top leaders in agriculture, government and education to explore the many opportunities ahead of them," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "Agriculture impacts every sector of our economy and every community in our state. There is a bright future for young people in agriculture and it is vital that we attract and educate the next generation of leaders."

This year, students have the opportunity to learn about the many unique opportunities for agricultural careers in southwestern Missouri. The group will spend June 3-7 in the Springfield area, visiting with industry leaders and agribusinesses specializing in animal health, communication, sales and financial management. The students will also spend time on the Missouri State University campus.

More than 750 Missouri youth have completed the competitive application and interview process and gone on to participate in the Academy since its establishment in 1988.

For more information on the Department of Agriculture and its programs, please visit http://www.mda.mo.gov.