Empowering the next generation of leaders in agriculture
The International Agriculture team at CSU Spur is made up of conveners, storytellers, and innovators who build platforms and collaborate to support international agriculture through the CSU System. With local, national, and international partners, International Agriculture at CSU Spur addresses global grand challenges and empowers the next generation of leaders.
At the core of the mission are three pivotal programs: North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN), Global Mapping Strategic Outreach (GMSO), and the Colorado GROW Youth Institute.
NAAAN: Bridging Rural Advisory Services in North America
The North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN) hosted by the CSU System represents a partnership platform uniting Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the realm of rural advisory services and extension. Through knowledge development and management, networking, and policy advocacy, the NAAAN is focused on three key thematic areas: biodefense and disaster management for resilient communities, enhancing soil health and water management for sustainable agriculture, and empowering youth through skill development and career opportunities.
CSU Impact(o) Map: Identifying Global Impact
The Global Mapping Strategic Outreach (GMSO) team, made up of more than 20 members from all three CSU System campuses, developed the CSU Impact(O) Map — an interactive website and an exhibit on the third floor of the CSU Spur Terra building. This map features over 100 bilingual stories highlighting impactful initiatives by CSU System changemakers addressing global challenges in food, water, health, environment, energy, and community.
Colorado GROW Youth Institute: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Ag Leaders
A partnership with CSU Spur, CAM’s Ag Academy, and the Office of Extension and Engagement, GROW’s mission is to equip and inspire Colorado educators and students through a problem-based learning curriculum addressing global challenges that impact food security in Colorado and the western region. The goal is to expand this pilot program and form a Western States GROW Youth Institute in collaboration with Colorado’s neighboring states and the World Food Prize Foundation network of youth institutes.
Meet the International Agriculture Team
KERRI CONWAY
Special Advisor to the Chancellor and Director of International Agriculture, CSU Spur and CSU System / Director, NAAAN Secretariat
GREG NEWMAN
Coordinator of Engagement Technology, CSU Spur
LAUREN WELLER
Assistant Director, International Agriculture, CSU Spur / NAAAN Secretariat Member
REBECCA POPARA
Program Associate, International Agriculture, CSU Spur / NAAAN Secretariat Member
ARYN BAXTER
Associate Director for Development and Education, International Agriculture, CSU Spur
DAVID NIELSON
Senior Advisor to the NAAAN / NAAAN Secretariat Member
Contact the international agriculture team at 555 17th St., Ste. 1000, Denver, CO 80202 or csus_intlag@colostate.edu.
