Earlier this year, I was honored to be chosen to officially lead the LSU AgCenter and LSU College of Agriculture as the permanent vice president and dean. I am eager to elevate Louisiana agriculture through LSU’s Scholarship First Agenda. LSU President William F. Tate IV recognized agriculture as one of the five priorities areas that will drive excellence for LSU, Louisiana and beyond. Our cover story focuses on agriculture in Louisiana but also details how the work we do at the AgCenter and College of Agriculture reaches into the other four LSU priority areas: biomedical, coast, defense/cybersecurity and energy.

We also are beaming with pride over our outstanding students and alumni. In this issue, you will discover the remarkable achievements of our three Tiger Twelve students, who represent the best of the best at LSU. You will also learn about our three distinguished alumni award recipients. We are pleased to have them among our ranks.

The LSU agricultural enterprise is striving toward success, and within these pages, you will see how our partnerships with companies, families, donors and stakeholders are aimed at championing world-class research and outreach for the benefit of Louisiana. If you're interested in joining us to achieve common objectives, please don't hesitate to contact me by visiting lsuagcenter.com/vp. Together, we can make significant progress.

On behalf of our faculty, staff and students, I extend my gratitude for your support in helping us create a bright future for agriculture. Because of your ongoing support, we are … LSU Ag: Winning for Louisiana!

Sincerely,

Matt