IAMA Calendar of Events

February 18-19, 2010

USDA’s 2010 Annual Agricultural Outlook

Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel, Arlington, Virginia, USA
USDA’s Agricultural Outlook Forum provides producers, policymakers, business leaders, and government and industry analysts with a unique opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, and discuss timely issues at the forefront of America’s agriculture. In an effort to increase the present and future diversity of participation in the Forum, USDA created a program that provides sponsorship opportunities for junior and senior baccalaureate students to attend this annual 2-day event. USDA’s World Agricultural Outlook Board and Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) will host an introductory briefing featuring agencies participating in the Forum and a discussion of USDA internships and career opportunities. The USDA Outlook Forum Diversity Program benefits all parties involved and promotes diverse participation that educates baccalaureate students about agribusiness, the latest research, future trends, and policy in contemporary agriculture. TARGET: The program targets between 15-18 agriculture, agricultural economics, agricultural communications, agricultural business, or pre-veterinary junior or senior undergraduate students. Students will come from Land-Grant Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions and American Association of State Colleges of Agriculture and Renewable Resources institutions. SELECTION CRITERIA: Each institution will submit a letter of recommendation for up to two students along with the student’s one-page essay titled “Agriculture as a Career.” Each institution performs a “pre-selection” process by choosing the two best essays among the applicants for final consideration. Students should submit their essays to their respective institution representative (i.e., academic dean/department chair). Institutions must submit their the two best essays and recommendations to CSREES by October 16, 2009 to: amclaren@csrees.usda.gov. All essays must include student’s name, address, phone number, and e-mail. Final selections will be made by Lisa Purnell, USDA Liaison Officer, University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). Two positions are reserved for UMES students. USDA reserves permission to post selected winning essays online. TRAVEL ITINERARY: Registration, transportation, lodging, and Forum meals are provided for the students. If a student’s school is located within a convenient driving distance to DC (4 hours or less), a government mileage rate and hotel parking are reimbursed, or these students may elect to take the bus or train. Students will arrive in Washington, D.C., February 17, 2010, and return home February 19, 2010. Private-sector Sponsorship Includes: CHS, Inc., Deere & Company, Tyson Foods, Inc., Farm Credit Bank of Texas, and Agfirst Farm Credit Bank. ESSAY SUBMISSION DEADLINE: OCTOBER 16, 2009