Agreement Aims to Increase Student Awareness and Interest in Industry

Fairfax, VA – May 8, 2023, The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) have jointly announced they have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU). MANRRS and NPMA first began their relationship by establishing scholarships for students to attend NPMA’s PestWorld conference and learn from pest management subject matter experts to expand their knowledge of the industry. Based on the success of this program, the two organizations have deepened their relationship and established this long-term MOU.

The purpose of the MOU is to expose minority students to career opportunities in the structural pest management industry as it relates to protecting people, food and property from the diseases and destruction caused by pest infestations. The two organizations will partner with the goal of offering access to high school, undergraduate and graduate MANRRS students to learn about pest management through in person educational conferences, online learning courses, ride-alongs with technicians, and internships at local companies. MANRRS and NPMA will also work together on funding opportunities to support the development and ongoing sustainability of the program.

“MANRRS has established programs that attract curious and invested students of all ages and connect them to meaningful careers. NPMA is committed to providing support, access, and education to attract this future talent. We can’t wait to build new relationships and welcome them to all that NPMA has to offer.” said Dominique Stumpf, Chief Executive Office of NPMA.

"MANRRS is committed to the recruitment, development and placement of diverse talent in impactful spaces in the agricultural and natural resource arena. This partnership with NPMA will further the MANRRS mission by providing professional development, career exploration and employment opportunities in this underrepresented space. Together, MANRRS and NPMA will increase diversity, representation, diversity, and meaningful impact in the lives of our next generation leaders in the agricultural sciences and related careers." said Ian A. Smith, Junior MANRRS Coordinator at MANRRS.

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About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit www.NPMAPestWorld.org. 

About MANRRS

MANRRS is a non-profit organization promoting academic and professional advancement by empowering minorities in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. MANRRS has a reach of over 10,000 students and professionals within six Regions, and 73 Collegiate Chapters across 40 states, and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit www.manrrs.org, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.