The American Society of Agronomy - Growing People, Enhancing Science, Building Institutions.

Enduring change occurs in society when people change.  The objective of this presentation is to discuss my views on how the American Society of Agronomy (ASA) will assist in bringing about change for the betterment of society through improved food, fiber, feed and fuel production in conjunction with natural resource conservation and reduced environment impact.  Growing people means that scientific information and training opportunities are available to increase intellectual capital.  ASA supports the growth of people through publications, meetings, certification programs and webinars; and ASA is committed to utilizing new technologies to reach people in all areas of the world.  Enhancing science was and will continue to be a cornerstone of ASA.  Our members are continually expanding our knowledge base through their scientific work, and ASA supports the dissemination and analysis of this knowledge through our journals, books, magazines, and meetings.  ASA is working to find more efficient ways to get our publications to individuals outside North America, and to make our meetings more accessible.  We are considering the potential of sponsoring meetings for smaller, more specialized groups at whatever venue is most appropriate.  Building institutions is another cornerstone of sustainable change.  ASA is in its 102 year, and this sustainability has occurred because of the creativity of the members and staff.  ASA will continue to serve the scientific needs of our scientist members, but we have also developed certification programs.  The certification programs have raised the level of training and experience for crop advisers and professional agronomists. ASA is committed to developing these institutions where ever there is a need and resources can be developed.  Creative people, world class science, and strong institutions insure sustainable change for the betterment of the world’s people and the planet.