Wayne-Sanderson Farms Boosts UGA Poultry Science with $2 Million Donation
Wayne-Sanderson Farms, a leader in the poultry industry, has generously contributed an additional $2 million towards the University of Georgia’s innovative Poultry Science Building. This latest gift enhances their total support to an impressive $4.1 million, significantly advancing the development of this state-of-the-art facility.
Creating a Collaborative Hub for Students
The funding will prominently support the construction of a student lobby, a spacious 1,300-square-foot area designed for academic engagement and networking with industry professionals. “The UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) is deeply appreciative of our collaboration with Wayne-Sanderson Farms. This donation underscores their commitment to fostering the future of the poultry sector,” expressed Nick Place, the CAES dean and director.
A Legacy of Support for Poultry Science
As the third-largest poultry producer nationwide, Wayne-Sanderson Farms employs over 26,000 individuals and collaborates with more than 2,000 family farms. The company is a staunch advocate for the CAES Department of Poultry Science, consistently recognized as one of the premier programs in the country.
“We take pride in investing in the future of agriculture and reinforcing the resilience of Georgia’s poultry sector,” stated Kevin McDaniel, President and CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms. “This modern facility, along with the student lobby, embodies the University of Georgia’s dedication to advancing poultry science for years to come.”
Enhancing Learning with Advanced Facilities
The student lobby will serve as a key area for collaboration and networking among students and industry partners. (Photo by Lavi Del Carmen Astacio)
Located on UGA’s South Campus, the new Poultry Science Building spans over 70,000 square feet, effectively increasing the space available per student in classrooms from approximately 17 square feet to 28-30 square feet.
The building features cutting-edge laboratories and collaborative areas, including a food safety intervention space dedicated to assessing poultry processing techniques aimed at minimizing common foodborne illnesses. This infrastructure enhancement will significantly improve educational experiences and research capabilities.
Building the Next Generation of Leaders
“Our partnerships with private entities have deepened through our campaigns, and we are incredibly thankful for Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ support as we prepare the upcoming leaders in the poultry industry,” remarked Todd Applegate, the head of the poultry science department and holder of the R. Harold and Patsy Harrison Chair in Poultry Science.
The Poultry Science Building is part of a comprehensive $54.1 million public-private partnership, with funding sourced from both the Georgia legislature and federal grants. This collaboration positions UGA at the forefront of poultry science globally.
For further details about the Poultry Science Building project, visit poultrybuilding.caes.uga.edu. To support the CAES Department of Poultry Science, please visit the CAES giving page.
Source: The University of Georgia
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