Editor's Note

Letters and email from readers remind me of the lasting effects of Abraham Lincoln signing the Morrill Land-Grant Act in 1862 -- and how his actions continue to affect our lives today.

I was at the Mushroom Research Center photographing Dan Royse, professor of plant pathology, in an environment remarkably similar to one I had photographed him in 20 years earlier.

As the new year begins the college is planning for change. It faces a budget crisis and the University is also engaged in significant program review across all campuses. Recommendations as a result of those reviews will touch the college.

Educating students is part of the college’s fundamental mission. While working with them I discover in many cases their education stretches beyond the classroom and prepares them for careers and professional life. I'll share just a few of those stories here.

Over the past year I’ve shared plans for our redesign with anyone who would listen. Usually, at some point during the conversation I’d hear, “But I like Penn State Agriculture magazine.” So I thought I’d explain the change.