Alexandria, Virginia, USA
March 3, 2009
 The
American Seed Trade Association
(ASTA) is pleased to share the good progress made in raising
funds and implementing strategic initiatives for the newly
launched First the Seed Foundation (FTSF). The First the Seed
Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, was established to
conduct education, outreach and communication on the value of
crops and food produced from seeds. The Foundation's goal is to
reinforce the significant promise and importance of seed in
everyday life by first targeting high school and college level
students. The message is unique and exciting - there are many
and varied career opportunities in the seed industry.
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Foundation President Thomas F.
(Bud) Hughes (photo) shared, "Although we launched our new
educational foundation in difficult economic times, the response
and excitement from supporters has been gratifying. I am
encouraged by the $1.024 million in contributions and pledges
that we have achieved to date, versus our initial fundraising
goal of $2 million. To the many who have signaled their support
and to those who have joined us, we extend a big thank you. Your
confidence and support is important and will help us to move
forward."
"The seed industry's contribution to society and agriculture is
unparalleled and support of the Foundation is a key way for us
all to tell our story and to give back to the industry,"
continued Hughes. There have been over 40 companies,
associations and individuals who have committed to the
Foundation and will be considered Founding Donors of FTSF.
The First the Seed Foundation has now adopted a four-year
strategic plan and is currently working with JMH Education in
completing the development of a stand-alone Web site that will
include areas for consumers, students, teachers as well as
funders. The launch of the Web site is scheduled for May 2009,
which will be showcased at the First the Seed Foundation booth
during the ASTA Annual Convention in Scottsdale, Arizona, in
June.
The next phase of the Foundation's strategic plan is the
development and distribution of a FTSF career packet for
students who would consider a profession in the seed industry.
The goal is to have this resource in the hands of high school
counselors/college advisors for the 2009 fall semester. The
career packet will be their tool for introducing students to the
numerous seed career opportunities including jobs available,
salary expectations, agricultural education programs and paths -
helping students plan their next steps. High school
counselors/college advisors are envisioned to use the contents
of the career packets at important fall events such as career
days, job fairs and back-to-school nights. These types of events
are key opportunities to present career and higher education
information to students and parents. The objectives of the
career kit will be to inspire high school students to actively
pursue a career path in the seed industry by highlighting real
agricultural professionals with a focus on cultural and
geographical diversity.
 Individuals
and companies are encouraged to learn more about the Foundation,
its purpose and its commitment to furthering the education and
awareness of the seed industry and agriculture to America's
youth. Information can be located on the
ASTA website or by
contacting Ann Jorss by phone (703) 837-8140 or email at
ajorss@amseed.org.
Hughes remarked, "We appreciate those who have stepped up, thank
those who have agreed to support us more when they are better
able, and remind those who have not that we still need their
support in the very important and noble industry effort." |
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