I am thrilled to talk with our students and learn about their plans for the summer or their post-graduation plans for those completing their time at UMD this semester. Some are back home to work in their family business or nearby, others are staying in the College Park area with internships, and others are venturing out across the state for jobs or internships to gain experience in one of many different disciplines. I have not talked to many who are leaving the DMV area. Each is excited about putting their knowledge to use. That’s what their time in AGNR is all about.
This week is about spending time with our supporters. I look forward to a dinner with a long-time friend of AGNR whom I have not had the pleasure of meeting yet. Thursday, the UMD Trustees arrive for a reception followed by a day-long meeting on Friday that includes Forward Campaign progress and plans. Our own plans are moving along nicely with reimagining the student experience, modernizing the campus farm, and building partnerships to advance innovation in agriculture and natural resources management in ways that address grand challenges. While we haven’t raised the necessary funds yet, we are making progress on the plans that are necessary for others to see our vision. And we have a plan to secure funds that has cleared a few of the early hurdles.
Other meetings this week include a dean’s meeting with the provost. Budget is on everyone’s mind, particularly in light of the notice shared last week. With fuel prices up again, it isn’t difficult to understand that the economy isn’t where we thought it would be when the budget cycle began. Later this week, we have a planning meeting for contribution to the general education courses for students across the campus. Additionally, we have two more candidates to interview for the chair of Nutrition and Food Science. I hope there is good attendance for the seminar and meetings with the candidates. This is an important position for our college and one that leads a department that contributes to some of the popular general education courses.
I hope everyone is enjoying this great weather as much as possible. It is a nice time of year to be in the sunshine before humidity returns!
