Dean's update

March 16 , 2009

Two weeks ago I had the opportunity to go to the winter meetings of the Administrative Heads of Agriculture along with their advocacy representatives. Although there was widespread disappointment that agricultural research was left out of the Stimulus Bill, other science agencies such as NIH and NSF received significant new funding that will provide additional grant opportunities for our faculty. It is hoped that increases in funding for agriculture can be addressed in the FY10 appropriations process. Agriculture did receive modest increases to our federal formula funding and the primary grants program in the FY09 appropriation. During this time of declining state budgets, any increase is welcome news indeed.

I also traveled to Florida to attend the annual picnic of College alumni.  This long-standing event brings together alumni, emeritus faculty and staff and friends from the west coast area of Florida to celebrate their support of UConn. It was a great opportunity for me to meet a number of wonderful supporters of our College. It is comforting to know that we have so many friends and supporters across the nation.

Gregory J. Weidemann

Dean and Director