University of Delaware Receives Funding to Enhance Poultry Science Recruitment
The University of Delaware (UD) has been awarded a substantial $6,280 student recruiting grant from the USPOULTRY Foundation. As a prominent land-grant institution, UD emphasizes poultry science as a pivotal component of its educational offerings through the Department of Animal and Food Sciences. This support will significantly contribute to the university’s mission of preparing students for future careers in the poultry and animal agriculture sectors.
Integrating Poultry Science into Academic Programs
Poultry science is intricately woven throughout the curriculum at UD. The university boasts a team of eight faculty experts who specialize in various aspects of poultry science. These educators actively incorporate poultry-related topics into a diverse array of courses, which include:
- Animal Handling
- Nutrition
- Physiology
- Immunology
- Diseases and Behavior
- Functional Anatomy
- Animal and Human Culture
- Environmental Management
In total, a remarkable 25 courses integrate poultry-focused content, affording students significant exposure to numerous facets of poultry production, health, and research methodologies.
Funding Initiatives for Student Recruitment
The funds from the USPOULTRY Foundation will support a range of recruitment and outreach endeavors. These initiatives aim to engage potential students and elevate awareness about academic and career prospects within the poultry field. Planned activities include:
- Undergraduate Recruitment and Outreach Events
- Animal Agriculture Careers Seminar Series
- Poultry Industry Introduction Field Days
- Participation in the Northeast Student Affiliate Competition
- Involvement in UD’s Blue and Gold Open House Days and Decision Days
- Support for student participation at the Delaware State Fair
Commitment to Workforce Development
This grant aligns with the USPOULTRY Foundation’s established commitment to workforce development. In total, the Foundation has approved $331,292 in student recruiting grants distributed among 27 colleges and universities across the United States that feature poultry science or industry-related programs. These annual funds are crucial in assisting institutions to attract and retain students interested in poultry studies, made possible through contributions from various companies, individuals, families, and proceeds from the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production and Processing Expo.
For more details, visit the US Poultry & Egg Association.
