The next generation in agriculture: USDA Future Leaders

Students who were chosen as Future Leaders in Agriculture attended the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 99th annual Agricultural Outlook Forum in Washington, D.C.

Now in its 16th year, the USDA Future Leaders in Agriculture Program introduces college students to the work of USDA and partner organizations. The program also provides learning opportunities in contemporary agribusiness, scientific research and agricultural policy to 21 undergraduates and nine graduate students who are majoring in agriculture-related subjects.

Future Leaders participated in a USDA briefing where they discussed career development with agriculture leaders in academia, government and industry. They toured the nation’s capital and attended the forum, where Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack presented their awards.

From left, UMES sophomore agriculture majors Cameron Geddie (general agriculture), Sophia Goins (agribusiness) and Isaiah McKenzie (general agriculture) were among students designated as Future Leaders in Agriculture. SUBMITTED PHOTOS