How a $1m pledge from ADM will ramp up ag innovation
ADM has generously donated $1 million to Kansas State University’s Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation, a key component of the university’s forward-thinking Agriculture Innovation Initiative led by the College of Agriculture. This funding will significantly enhance the academic journey of K-State students, consequently igniting innovation within the industry.
Expressing gratitude, Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon Dean for the College of Agriculture and Director of K-State Research and Extension, emphasized how this donation will fortify the institution’s excellence in education, research and global food security efforts.
“The College of Agriculture is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 higher education ag programs in the nation, and this donation will help ensure we remain at the top in educating students, leading in research and helping our partners feed a hungry world,” said Dean Minton.
With a strategic emphasis on interdisciplinary research and development (R&D), the Center will allocate 30% of its space for collaborative endeavors between public entities and private enterprises. Equipped with cutting edge laboratories, classrooms and interdisciplinary partner spaces, the facility will foster novel collaborations across the university and enrich the student experience through research, creativity, and innovation.
Cultivating a pipeline for industry evolution
President of ADM Milling Tedd Kruse underscored ADM’s commitment to leveraging nature’s potential to enhance quality of life.
“ADM’s purpose is to unlock the power of nature to enrich the quality of life, and as a milling and baking solutions leader, we are proud to support K-State’s Agricultural Innovation Initiative to help deliver a pathway for highly trained students to lead the advancement of new technologies and change within the industry,” said Kruse.
“The facility will not only foster new collaborations across the university, but it will enhance the student experience by way of research, creativity and innovation.
Beyond the Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation, the Agriculture Innovation Initiative encompasses other upgraded or expanded facilities such as the Agronomy Research and Innovation Center, the Bilbrey Family Event Center, and Call and Weber halls. These enhancements will bolster grain, food, animal, and agronomy research at K-State, marking a significant milestone in the university’s dedication to interdisciplinary research and development.
K-State president Richard Linton hailed the initiative as a pivotal moment for land-grant universities, particularly applauding K-State’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration.
“By fostering greater collaboration across departments and colleges, we’ll broaden the university’s research opportunities and outcomes while working alongside other organizations and private industry partners. This represents an exciting new chapter for K-State, solidifying its position as the next-generation university in education, research and industry.”
