Real-life Solutions: UTIA Delivers

Group photo in Rwanda

Featured image: On a recent visit to Rwanda, three representatives of Zamura Feeds Ltd. showed their soybeans to UTIA’s Forbes Walker (left) and Neal Eash (in yellow). Also joining the tour were UTIA alumnus and supporter Donnie Smith (center) and UTIA’s new Chair for International Sustainable Agriculture, Tom Gill, who served as photographer.

As one of the UT System units recognized with the 2015 Carnegie Community of Engagement Classification, UTIA is well known for collaborating with community partners to address society’s most pressing needs. Among the efforts are the Commodities for Communities program, which allows producers to donate their raw commodities to support community-based UT outreach programs like 4-H; a collaboration with the Companion Animal Initiative of Tennessee to staff a mobile spay/neuter clinic; and educating landowners on the importance of native grasses. UTIA also recently appointed Thomas Gill to the Donald and Terry Smith Endowed Chair for International Sustainable Agriculture. Established through a gift by the Smiths, the chair will bring sustainable agricultural solutions to less economically developed countries through a variety of collaborative efforts. These and many other UTIA partnerships are making a difference in the state, nation and world. UTIA Chancellor Larry Arrington said the Carnegie classification recognizes the institute’s strong commitment to the land-grant mission.

Another First

Vet surgeons operate on a large steer

David Anderson and Dudely the steer
Dr. Anderson checks on Dudley after surgery

In a first-of-its-kind surgery at the UT Veterinary Medical Center, Dr. David Anderson, large animal department head and board-certified large animal surgeon, amputated the rear foot of a yearling Hereford. Dudley, the steer, is owned by the Gentle Barn animal sanctuary in California and has been fitted with a prosthesis. Anderson says he approaches each case involving a prosthesis with a sense of learning, since every patient presents different challenges. The Gentle Barn has plans for Dudley to participate in outreach programs for children and veterans with disabilities.

New look, same mission

The UT Institute of Agriculture is sporting a new look. The updated logo features the core promise behind the efforts of UTIA faculty, staff, students and alumni: Real. Life. Solutions. “Providing real-life solutions that make a positive impact in our state and beyond is our commitment,” says Lisa Stearns, vice chancellor for UTIA marketing and communications. The brand includes parallel marketing for each of the institute’s four units: the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch and UT Extension. Even the UT Gardens has adopted the look. For the complete suite of new logos, check out the UTIA marketing website.