The land-grant mission in the 21st century: Promises made and promises to be kept

Abstract

Implications • The tripartite mission of land-grant universities (research, teaching, and extension) continues to produce astounding numbers of college graduates, inventions, and discoveries. • Land-grant universities wishing to assert the benefits of a college degree must become more efficient, increase teaching excellence, engage with community stakeholders, conduct research that matters, describe how activities impact local needs, and refocus on affordability and accessibility. • Additional public investment in animal science research, teaching, and extension activities are urgently needed. • Animal scientists should consider how connected they are to the mission of land-grant universities that speaks directly to the 21st century needs of its partners and stakeholders.