Pursuing a Unifying Message

A University Perspective

Foundation report summarizes discussion among university leaders on common ground for developing a unifying message

The Charles Valentine Riley Memorial Foundation (RMF) released a report Tuesday, June 16, 2015, on a university perspective for making the case that agricultural research should be a higher national priority.

The report, “Pursuing a Unifying Message: Elevating Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research as a National Priority. A University Perspective,” is available on the RMF website.

The report summarizes an April 2015 discussion among 23 leaders of universities, university associations and others on the need for reversing an alarming lack of federal investment in food, agricultural and natural resources research.

The report highlights common ground existing among universities for a unifying message; the likely elements to consider in a unifying message; and thoughts on upcoming steps toward development of a common message involving many partners.

The university discussion was organized by a “Pursuing a Unifying Message” task force composed of representatives of RMF, Iowa State University, Mississippi State University, Soil and Water Conservation Society, Texas Tech University, Colorado State University, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition and Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation.

The “University Perspective” report follows on the heels of the RMF’s previous report, released in December 2014, which documents that the United States is in danger of losing its position of international prominence in the scientific research upon which our food, agriculture and natural resources systems depend. The report encourages public and private organizations to work together toward a common goal at a time when global challenges require additional investment in agricultural research.

The “University Perspective” report, published by the RMF, was developed by the RMF and Iowa State University, in partnership with Mississippi State University, the Soil and Water Conservation Society, Texas Tech University and Colorado State University.

Pursuing a Unifying Message Webcast

Archived webcast recorded December 5, 2014, 9:00 a.m. EST

The Charles Valentine Riley Foundation announced a report, “Pursuing a Unifying Message: Elevating Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research as a National Priority,” at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., with a discussion by several national leaders.

Dean Wendy Wintersteen’s “Pursuing a Unifying Message” presentation, December 5, 2014

Download PDF

Full “Pursuing a Unifying Message” report

Download PDF