Crowder College agriculture department earns national award

(From Crowder College)

The agriculture department at Crowder College in Neosho, Mo., is one of only four programs nationwide selected for the 2015 National Association of Agricultural Educators Outstanding Postsecondary/ Adult Agricultural Education Program Award. The award was presented at the NAAE annual convention in New Orleans on November 18.

The Agriculture Division at Crowder College prepares students to for careers in welding, mechanics, veterinary science, and horticulture. The college uses innovative instructional methods such as distance learning and travel seminar courses to increase students’ understanding and to broaden their experience beyond the classroom setting. Labs are structured so all students have the opportunity to work with farm animals, grow their own plants, and observe surgeries. This method allows students to put into play what they learn inside the classroom.

Crowder students prepare for the world of work by choosing a career pathway that interests them. Once they have done this, they learn more about that area and give presentations and take field trips to learn more about the industry in which they are interested. Even though they identify one area of emphasis, students have the opportunity to explore numerous agricultural industries to broaden their experience in the field and to get an idea of all the career choices available. On-the-job techniques are covered in the areas of small engines, welding, greenhouse operations, and veterinary technology.

“I am very proud of the Crowder College Agriculture Division. Our agriculture faculty and staff do an outstanding job meeting the total needs of their students. The students leave this program with the skills needed to be successful in a changing world. Most importantly, our students leave the program with life-time support from the best mentors in the field,” said Dr. Glen Coltharp, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Crowder College.

Each of the four regional Outstanding Postsecondary/ Adult Program Award winners was recognized at the NAAE convention in New Orleans. The Outstanding Postsecondary/Adult Ag. Ed Program award is sponsored by Monsanto as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. NAAE is the professional association for agricultural educators. Its mission is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service.” The NAAE office is located in Lexington, Ky.