Photo Credits: Submitted
Pictured: (right) Rose Gunther
From Sunday, Oct. 12 through Tuesday, Oct. 14, Arkansas Tech University student Rose Gunther and faculty member Tatum Simms represented ATU on the Arkansas Future Ag Leaders Tour, an exclusive statewide experience hosted by the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Research and Extension.
Students from Arkansas Tech University, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), and University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) came together for a three-day journey exploring the future of Arkansas agriculture.
Throughout the tour, participants met with industry leaders from organizations such as Arkansas Farm Bureau, Southerntail Brewing, Greenway Equipment Inc., Anheuser-Busch, the Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center (NERREC), and the Bayou Meto Water Management District. Each visit offered unique insights into the state’s agricultural economy, and the vital role Arkansas plays in national food production.
The tour emphasized how rice and water management influence every corner of the state’s agricultural system. Students also explored connections between agriculture and industries such as agritourism, hospitality, precision agriculture, supply chain logistics, and sustainable conservation practices.
The Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences Leadership Retreat, which coincided with the tour, provided an opportunity for students to network directly with agricultural professionals, gain leadership experience, and hear real-world stories from those shaping the future of the industry. The event was free for all participants, giving students the chance to connect classroom knowledge with hands-on experiences in the field.
“Being able to hear from leaders who are passionate about advancing agriculture in Arkansas was truly inspiring,” said Rose Gunther, a junior Agriculture Business major. “It showed how broad the industry really is and how many opportunities are out there for young professionals.”
The Arkansas Future Ag Leaders Tour continues to build connections among the state’s universities, preparing the next generation of innovators and advocates for agriculture. Those interested in upcoming tours can contact Tatum Simms at tsimms3@atu.edu or attend an upcoming ATU MANRRS meeting.
