The USPOULTRY Foundation awarded a $3,500 student recruiting grant to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

The University of Tennessee has a comprehensive poultry program to support student recruitment and career development, targeting four key groups: youth, high school students, undergraduates and graduate students. The funds will be used toward youth recruitment activities such as the University’s Institute of Agriculture Ag Day, showcasing baby chicks and providing an introduction to the chicken life cycle. High school students are recruited through events at in-state high schools, including poultry lectures, showcases and interactive sessions. Undergraduate recruiting and development goals will be supported by hosting industry experts so that they may interact with students to discuss poultry careers and provide insight into the industry. The University of Tennessee also supports the growth and development of graduate students, providing opportunities for them to connect with industry research professionals in the poultry industry and present their research findings at the International Poultry Scientific Forum at IPPE.

The USPOULTRY Foundation board approved student recruiting grants totaling $297,580 to 26 colleges and universities across the United States with a poultry science department or industry-related degree program. The USPOULTRY Foundation provides annual recruiting funds to colleges and universities to attract students to their poultry programs. The grants are made possible by gifts to the Foundation from companies, individuals and families, in addition to funds earned over the years at the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production & Processing Expo.