Penn State MANRRS Students Build Careers at Dallas Expo

By Blake Jackson

Students from Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences strengthened their professional skills and expanded industry connections during the 40th Annual Training Conference and Career Expo hosted by the National Society of MANRRS in Dallas.

MANRRS, which stands for Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences, is a national professional development organization that supports students pursuing careers in agriculture and natural resources.

Twelve Penn State students attended the April conference alongside Laura Leites, assistant dean for access and equity, and Milton Newberry III, director of student access programs and adviser for Penn State’s MANRRS chapter.

The 2026 conference carried the theme “Leadership to Legacy” and featured professional development workshops, keynote speakers, networking sessions, and career-building opportunities with employers, faculty, and students from universities across the country.

“On the very first day, I unexpectedly met the chief technology officer of the company I’ll be working for this summer in an elevator,” said Ian Bell, an environmental resource management major and chapter treasurer.

“From connecting with amazing students from universities across the country to reconnecting with people I met last year who have now become close friends, the MANRRS national conference is a remarkable environment for building relationships, expanding your network, and growing as a pre-professional.”

Leites noted that Penn State was one of the organization’s founding chapters, alongside Michigan State University, and continues to remain highly active within MANRRS. The organization also celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

“The conference and the career expo are completely tailored toward the students and helping them make professional connections,” said Newberry III. “The conference is the highlight of our chapter, and the mentorship that happens there has a lasting impact.”

Students also highlighted the supportive atmosphere and networking opportunities that continue to help them grow personally and professionally through the organization.

Photo Credit: penn-state-college-of-ag-sciences