Introducing CORE Synergy

An idea that started on the back of a napkin is poised to empower generations of leaders in the agricultural industry.

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC, September 17, 2024 – The agriculture industry faces increasing challenges, from feeding a growing global population to addressing sustainability. Meeting these challenges requires a steady stream of skilled, well-prepared individuals entering the workforce. To cultivate the talent needed, Agriculture Future of America (AFA) and MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences) have created CORE Synergy, a joint effort trailblazing in its approach to fuel and empower current and future agricultural and natural resource practitioners and leaders. Through CORE Synergy, the two organizations and BASF will provide transformational training opportunities that equip participants with practical skills and knowledge, preparing them to tackle the most pressing issues in agriculture. 

The program’s name stands for Creative, Open, Responsible, and Entrepreneurial—core values that are essential for driving future growth in agriculture. There is an urgent need to cultivate the current and next generations of agricultural leaders, and this challenge requires focused effort and collaboration across industry, academia, and student organizations. This strategic partnership is the first of its kind to bring together organizations like MANRRS, AFA and BASF, providing leadership to support opportunities for young people and professionals to thrive in an ever-changing and dynamic agriculture industry ensuring a sustainable, innovative future for the industry.  

“BASF is proud to enable this new strategic partnership between MANRRS and AFA in the creation of CORE Synergy, which we see it as part of our social responsibility for the Ag industry” says Courtney White, Head of Human Resources for Agricultural Solutions North America at BASF.  

“BASF is committed to empowering young leaders who are not just the architects of tomorrow but also the stewards of today,” said Scott Kay, Vice President of U.S. Agricultural Solutions at BASF. “Their vision and energy shape the present and pave the way for future innovations that will continually demonstrate the love of farming.  Through CORE Synergy we hope to enable all generations to help farmers do the Biggest Job on Earth”  

With BASF’s support, MANRRS and AFA will synergize existing programs and efforts in new ways to amplify their impact, empowering agriculture students and professionals to transform the industry.  

“At AFA, we believe that the future of agriculture is built by cultivating innovative leaders who are passionate about making a difference,” says Mark Stewart, AFA CEO. “CORE Synergy is an exciting collaboration that will allow us to deepen our impact by connecting students and professionals with critical resources and transformative training. Together with MANRRS and BASF, we are committed to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit needed to address the challenges of tomorrow’s agriculture industry.” 

This initiative is not just about today’s students — it’s shaping the industry’s future by empowering the next generation of diverse leaders to take on leadership roles and solve the challenges that lie ahead.  

“At MANRRS, we believe that diversity and inclusion are critical to the success of agriculture,” says Ebony Webber, MANRRS CEO. “CORE Synergy represents a  powerful collaboration that brings together expertise, resources, and a shared vision  for cultivating the next generation of leaders. Through this partnership, we’re creating  a unique opportunity for students and professionals to grow their skills and expand  their networks. This initiative will help ensure that the agriculture industry is not only  prepared for the challenges ahead but is also led by a workforce that reflects the rich  diversity of our society.” 

CORE Synergy will begin in January 2025, with plans for expanded programming through 2030. This investment will result in a larger community of competent and capable agriculture leaders, equipped participants who will deliver best practices.  Together, BASF, MANRRS and AFA are creating opportunities for young people to thrive in agriculture and ensure a sustainable, innovative future for the industry.