MJC Agriculture recognized with two prestigious honors
The Modesto Junior College’s Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Division recently received back-to-back honors! MJC Agriculture was named the Outstanding Post-Secondary Agricultural Education Program for 2017 by the California Agricultural Teachers’ Association (CATA) at their Annual Conference this summer, and is being inducted into the National Ag Science Center’s Ag Hall of Fame during their Induction Ceremony and Gala on November 3, 2017.
CATA, a professional education association representing over 900 agricultural instructors from middle school through university levels, recognized the MJC Agriculture program for its long and deep history of student participation, achievement and excellence. The selection committee noted the tireless efforts of MJC Agriculture staff in helping students become successful, and the support the college program enjoys in the community from appreciative industry partners and others.
The National Ag Science Center’s Ag Hall of Fame induction provides an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of individuals, families and companies who have contributed to Stanislaus County’s role as one of the nation’s leading agricultural counties. The MJC Agriculture Department is being honored for its longstanding educational impact, assuring the continued development of agriculture in the community, and inspiring future farmers, business people and leading innovators in the industry.
MJC Agriculture is one of the most comprehensive community college agriculture programs in the nation, offering 14 different Associate of Science Degrees and 14 Technician Certificates.
The MJC Agriculture Department has 12 full-time professors who provide instruction in a wide variety of courses and conduct numerous activities serving their students, as well as high school students throughout the state. As one example, MJC’s Annual FFA Field Day attracts over 1,200 high school participants, with over 200 MJC students involved in planning and conducting the event’s competitions on campus.
Student leadership is also a highlight of the program, with well over 150 members in the MJC Young Farmers Club. A Charter Affiliate of the California Agriculture Leaders, club members can take advantage of many opportunities to hone their leadership skills. Students have additional opportunities for leadership training by participating in the Ag Ambassadors. There are also program area clubs such as the Animal Science Club, Dairy Club, Quarter Scale Tractor Club, Environmental Horticulture Club and the Poultry Club.
Industry collaboration is a hallmark of the MJC Agriculture Department. Located in the heart of California's Central Valley, industry field trips enable students and staff to experience the latest developments and technological advances in food and fiber production, on many occasions within 30 minutes of the campus.
It is the vision of the MJC Agriculture Department to continue to provide an outstanding education for the next generation of agriculturalists who continue to serve the food and fiber needs of California, the United States, and the world.
For more information on MJC’s agricultural programs visit www.mjc.edu/instruction/agens or call (209) 575-6200.