Growth – it’s at the root of everything the Missouri State University William H. Darr School of Agriculture teaches. To better meet the needs of its students, Missouri State’s Board of Governors voted today (Dec. 15) to rename the unit the William H. Darr College of Agriculture.

The change better reflects the organization of the college, which has doubled in student majors over the past five years, according to Provost Dr. Frank Einhellig.

“Although the curriculum will not change in the short-term and students will not be directly affected, it is my belief that the students will command better recognition of the education they receive and the designation of ‘college’ will help the students as they seek employment and careers,” added Einhellig.

Departments in agriculture

The three academic units that made up the School of Agriculture will become departments in the College of Agriculture: animal science; environmental plant science and natural resources; and agribusiness, agricultural education and communications.

Over the course of the next year, Einhellig noted, the departments will be evaluated to find the best structure for the course work.

History

In spring 2010, the department of agriculture (under the College of Natural and Applied Sciences) became the William H. Darr School of Agricuture.

That designation was earned due to the scope of programs, involvement with the public, funds generated through donations and grants, and the overall reputation within the public sector in the state and beyond.

All of those attributes now have been amplified to an even higher level, added Einhellig.

In the intervening years, there has been a significant expansion of faculty and support personnel who serve the increase in the number of majors and students graduating from the programs in agriculture.

According to Einhellig, much of this progress is attributable to the great leadership of Dr. Anson Elliott.

“It was a great pleasure to lead the agriculture programs at Missouri State for more than 30 years,” said Elliott, emeritus faculty of Missouri State. “Our ties to the industry led us to continually grow and adapt our program to better meet the needs of the community, and I am excited for the path that the new College of Agriculture will take now.”

For more information, contact Einhellig at 417-836-5119.