One of the most fascinating parts about being a student within the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences is the boundless opportunities to engage in leadership and professional development. This past semester, one such opportunity was attending the national conference of the student group Minorites in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences in Jacksonville, Florida.

This conference hosted dozens of current students and alumni from N.C. A&T and hundreds of others from different institutions and professional groups. Many students from the college won awards at this conference, but one individual who particularly excelled was junior animal science (animal industry) student Tahirah Jones, who was selected to serve as a national MANRRS undergraduate vice president for Region VI.

Before being selected for this position, Jones served as the president for the N.C. A&T chapter of MANRRS. Her commitment to serving minorities in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences will help her within her national role, working with members from all across the country. This prestigious recognition allows her to help grow the national organization, assist members in developing their leadership and professional skills, and engage with stakeholders on behalf of National MANRRS.

“Serving as a National Student Officer, I am most excited to connect and learn from MANRRS members all over the country, instilling in them a belief that their advancement of educational and professional development is essential to the prosperity of the agricultural and animal industry,” she said.

In the future, Jones said she hopes to find a role that allows her to serve her community and help underrepresented youth grow as leaders in agriculture.

There are many students within the college who are making the most of opportunities, just as Tahirah Jones has done with National MANRRS; this is what makes being an Aggie so fantastic.