Agriculture Council for Access and Opportunity

NDSU Agriculture, to include NDSU Extension, North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station (NDAES), Research Extension Centers and the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources (CAFSNR), is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion for all employees, clientele and partners. Our core values include equal access, service to diverse audiences, equity and diversity in recruitment and employment, and fostering genuine inclusivity throughout our units. As such, we remain committed to diversity, equity and inclusion as both a mindset and in action.

The NDSU Agriculture Council for Access and Opportunity was first convened in 2020, with the mission of promoting a system that values differences in meaningful way to enhance our land grant mission of teaching, research and extension.

Goals of the Council
  • An engaged workforce within NDSU Agriculture
  • Multiple, regular educational programs and resources on engagement are readily available and accessed by all staff
  • Stronger relationships with our 1994 North Dakota land-grant institutions and Tribal partners
  • All resources developed and utilized by NDSU Agriculture are viewed through a cultural lens before distribution
Council Meetings

The Agriculture Council for Access and Opportunity meets virtually, every-other-month to learn together, provide committee and organizational updates, and determine ways to promote engagement education for the entire organization. Four standing committees assist in the work of the council and include 1) education, 2) tribal connections/1994 relationships, 3) inclusive publications, and 4) civil discourse. Additional committees are possible and will be developed by the council based on needs of the organization.