July 2, 2018: For Immediate Release

Media Contact:  Dr. Michelle Schroeder-Moreno, Director of Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems Major, NC State University, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, (919) 513-0085 or michelle_schroeder@ncsu.edu

RALEIGH, NC:  NC State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has a new major program.  The new Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems is a cross-departmental program offered through the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences and Horticultural Science.  The program, which will admit its first students in fall 2018, is directed by Dr. Michelle Schroeder-Moreno, Professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences and Assistant Director of Educational Programs for the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS).

Agroecology integrates ecology with agriculture for the development of sustainable agricultural practices and food systems.  Through systems-level understanding, agroecologists are able to develop sustainable solutions to local and global agriculture and food challenges.  The program will provide future food system leaders with the interdisciplinary knowledge, real-world experiences, and professional networks to help develop sustainable solutions for agriculture and food system challenges now and in the future.

“Demand for graduates in agriculture is stronger than ever, especially for those with knowledge of sustainability.  This Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems major will prepare students for diverse careers with courses taught by faculty experts in sustainable agriculture, unique hands-on learning and community engagement experiences, and professional development opportunities through internship and research experiences,” says Dr. Schroeder-Moreno.

The program offers students three concentration areas: Agroecology Research and Production, Community Food Systems, and Urban Horticulture.

 For more information, please visit go.ncsu.edu/agroecology

The Center for Environmental Farming Systems is a partnership of NC State University, NC Agricultural and Technical State University and the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. CEFS develops and promotes just and equitable food and farming systems that conserve natural resources, strengthen communities, improve health outcomes, and provide economic opportunities in North Carolina and beyond. For more information, visit www.cefs.ncsu.edu.

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