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Recasting Morrill, Reclaiming Relevance: The Future of Land-Grant Universities

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This conversation brought together leaders from across the U.S. land-grant system to explore how these institutions can renew their public mission amid funding cuts, political pressures, and shifting societal expectations.  The forum examined how land-grant universities can adapt and lead in advancing education, innovation, and public trust in a rapidly changing 21st-century landscape.

Moderated by:

Jay Akridge, serves as the Trustee Chair in Teaching and Learning Excellence at Purdue University and is a Farm Foundation Round Table Fellow. Jay is uniquely qualified to lead this important discussion, bringing decades of academic leadership and expertise in agribusiness strategy and technology adoption that offer deep insight into the future of agriculture.

Panelists include:

Sonny Ramaswamy, was the former Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and former President and CEO of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Sonny is a leading agricultural scientist and UN food-security expert with a distinguished record of advancing research, innovation, and land-grant science.

Nancy Cox, served as Dean of the University of Kentucky’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and was the institution’s first Vice President for Land-Grant Engagement. Nancy is a renowned animal/equine physiologist, advancing Kentucky agriculture through research investments in diagnostics, equine health, and animal and forage production.

Marshall Stewart, is Kansas State University’s Executive Vice President for External Engagement and Chief of Staff in addition to being a national leader in land-grant outreach and agricultural education. A former agriculture teacher and 4-H/FFA leader, he has shaped major initiatives in extension, engagement, and agricultural education.