Dean David Ackerly recently traveled to Washington D.C. where he participated in the National Council for Agricultural Research, Extension and Teaching (CARET) Advocacy Days at the Capital in conjunction with other land-grant universities from across the country. CARET is dedicated to enhancing national support and understanding of the important role played by land-grant colleges in food and agricultural systems as well as their role in enhancing the quality of life for all Americans.
In his meetings with elected officials, Ackerly discussed the value of federal investment in CNR’s teaching and research and encouraged support for the University of California’s research, education, and extension mission throughout California. He met with Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL), Chair of the new House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, and Representatives John Garamendi (D-CA), Jerry McNerney (D-CA), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), and Jim Costa (D-CA) among others.