A Message from Dean Akridge
Continuing Our Legacy of Engagement
and Innovation
Published December 10, 2014

Dean Jay Akridge
In 2014, we marked the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act, which
created the Cooperative Extension Service. Celebrating the centennial, we recognize that the expansion and support of Extension at the national and state
levels are key to delivering programs that meet the needs of residents and communities.
This issue highlights some programs that are helping Indiana communities become more economically resilient and discoveries that move Indiana forward in
agriculture and life sciences.
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Animal agriculture is a multi-billion-dollar industry in Indiana. Research by Purdue animal scientists has implications for both improving the quality of
meat marbling and growth efficiency in animals and developing new approaches to treating human diseases.
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Nineteen research teams are advancing Indiana's leadership in plant and animal agriculture and rural development. In 2013, the state legislature funded AgSEED, a $1 million grant program. The research and education supported by AgSEED better
positions Indiana for economic growth and jobs in food and agriculture.
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Supporting small businesses builds a stable Indiana economy. County-based Extension tailors programs to local needs. In Clinton County, small-business
owners benefit from a networking forum that also provides professional development.
In Vigo County, Extension partners with the Indiana Small Business Development Center to
sponsor Startup Weekend, an intense course for entrepreneurs.
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The Purdue University Plant Sciences Research and Education Pipeline, a $20 million
initiative, strengthens the university's leadership in developing improved crops to feed a rapidly growing world population. Construction on a leading-edge
phenotyping facility will begin in spring 2015.
Purdue Agriculture and Extension are engaged at every level—from innovations to solve world hunger to local programs that enhance communities.
Jay Akridge
Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture