By Becky Schlake, Communications Coordinator

Becoming a 21st Century Agriculturalist is top priority for Florida Congressman Adam Putnum, and he believes that it should be for Alpha Gamma Rho and all of its members.

In a enlightening speech at the 2002 Minnesota National Convention, Congressman Putnum spoke about using technology to move ahead in the agriculture industry, as well as moving ahead to recruit quality young men to join Alpha Gamma Rho. Putnum believes that Alpha Gamma Rho needs to have computer and internet access in every room of every fraternity house. He believes that by using technology to attract new recruits, AGR can begin to expand the base of majors that are generally attracted to joining AGR. This would include microbiology majors and other science based fields. If we broaden the field of agriculture, we will be able to diversify and reflect new realities for the future.

Becoming a 21st Century agriculturalist means becoming technologically savvy. This means that tomorrow’s farmer or rancher needs to understand technology and be able to utilize this technology in his daily life. He also spoke of the need to communicate the purpose and importance of agriculture to the majority of the population. Cultural ignorance will prove to be the greatest threat to agriculture, and without good communication, nothing will change.

In a personal interview, Putnum also spoke of offering more scholarships to attract young men into Alpha Gamma Rho. Putnum himself was offered a Housing Scholarship when joining Alpha Gamma Chapter at the University of Florida. These scholarships would be offered for proven leadership skills and academics.

Becoming a 21st century fraternity and agricultural society will not be an easy task, but with the right technology and preparation agriculture’s future looks very bright.

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