It’s our land-grant mission to make a difference for Missouri and create new opportunities for our state’s most important industry: agriculture.

A central part of our impact is Mizzou’s statewide network of MU Extension offices that serve all 114 counties, as well as four Research, Education and Extension Centers (REECs) dedicated to the needs of different Missouri regions. Working with the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) and MU Extension, alongside producers and community leaders, we deliver world-class research and proven expertise that drive our workforce and economy forward.

In the months ahead, many rural Mizzou centers will host special Field Days and showcase events that bring stakeholders together to explore new technologies, discover innovative research and discuss how Mizzou can continue supporting their goals. The first Field Day kicks off on August 6 at the Lee Greenley Jr. Memorial Research Farm near Novelty, Missouri. Greenley Research Farm is part of the Northern Missouri REEC, led by director and proud Mizzou alum Jeff Case, BS Ag ’96, MS Ag Ed ’03.

Jeff knows firsthand the power of Mizzou to change lives and strengthen Missouri agriculture. He credited his time at Mizzou as the foundation of his agricultural career, and he is honored to help advance our mission by supporting research, education and meaningful engagement that directly benefits Missouri communities. He said it is especially meaningful to work alongside students, faculty and stakeholders to create opportunities for the next generation while giving back to an institution that invested in his success.

Jeff is one of three accomplished alumni directing REECs throughout the state, along with Jay Chism, MS ’04, at Southwest REEC and Dusty Walter, BS Ag ’96, MS ’00, PhD ’11, at Central Missouri REEC.

Through our outreach, including Field Days and the work of dedicated leaders like Jeff, we share critical resources and build new partnerships that improve the health, well-being and prosperity of Missourians. When we work with communities and find solutions together, we live out Mizzou’s commitment to excellence and grow our impact for all we serve.

— Mun