By Blake Jackson
Eight students from Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences advanced their academic and career journeys by participating in the 39th Annual Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) Training Conference and Career Expo in April, held in Memphis, Tennessee.
As one of the organization’s founding chapters, Penn State’s MANRRS delegation demonstrated the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering leadership in agriculture, environmental science, and natural resources among underrepresented groups.
The national conference brought together students, professionals, and industry experts for a week of growth through workshops, networking, and mentorship. Participants engaged in valuable discussions, built connections, and explored career opportunities.
MANRRS is a national organization dedicated to preparing future leaders in agriculture and related sciences, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
Penn State, alongside Michigan State, helped establish this initiative, said Laura Leites, assistant dean for access and equity in the College of Agricultural Sciences.
Milton Newberry III, director of student advocacy and access programs and the chapter’s adviser, noted the chapter’s ongoing achievements.
Two attendees received merit-based scholarships-the Ferrara Scholarship and the Lucille Terrell Scholarship-awarded by the college. An anonymous donor also helped cover travel costs for all students.
Newberry guided students through the career expo, which featured over 80 employers. The event provided critical experience in professional communication and career exploration.
“Several of my students would not have imagined speaking with representatives from companies such as Merck, Zoetis and Land O’ Lakes before joining MANRRS,” Newberry said. “Now, they feel empowered to connect and pursue the opportunities offered by these companies.”
First-year student Miri Almodovar-Alamo shared, “Having my adviser and my peers around me provided confidence and allowed me to focus on networking and learning about different careers.”
Miri and Aniayah Coleman had the opportunity to meet keynote speaker Dr. Kemba Marshall. “This conference helped me better understand myself and how to advocate for myself effectively,” Coleman said.
Student outcomes include a summer 2025 research internship at the University of Florida, a Cargill Thrive Scholarship recipient, and one student accepted into the 2024-2025 Animal Health and Care Academy.
“It brings me great joy to see my students come out of their shells and take full advantage of professional development and career opportunities at the MANRRS regional and national conferences,” said Newberry.
Photo Credit: penn-state-college-of-ag-sciences
Categories: Pennsylvania, Education