Baker Named Distinguished Alumnus for Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness
Rodney Baker
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Rodney Baker has been named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year for the agricultural economics and agribusiness department in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas.
Baker will be recognized in a 3:30 p.m. ceremony on Friday in Room 102 of the Home Economics Building on campus.
Baker earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science and his master’s degree in agricultural economics with a minor in agricultural business, both from the University of Arkansas.
In June, he was named executive vice president of the Arkansas Farm Bureau, a role he officially moves into on Nov. 1. He will serve as the chief executive officer, manage staff functions for the organization and report to the board of directors.
“Rodney’s vision, background and deep understanding of the issues facing agriculture will enable him to step into this critical role and effectively lead our organization,” said Arkansas Farm Bureau President Randy Veach.
Baker has served as director of governmental affairs for the bureau since 1998, leading the organization’s lobbying functions. He joined the staff in 1977 as a member of the commodity division.
Baker is a member of the Arkansas Society of Association Executives, the Arkansas Society of Professional Lobbyists, a board member of Blue Rock Sportsmans’ Club and the Arkansas Alumni Chapter of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity.
“Rodney has devoted his career to advancing the policy agenda of Arkansas agriculture,” said department head Steve Halbrook.
Contacts
Steve Halbrook, department head of agricultural economics and agri
Bumpers College
479-575-2258,
halbrook@uark.edu
Robby Edwards, director of communications
Bumpers College
479-575-4625,
robbye@uark.edu
Headlines
U of A Bands to Hold Three Nights of Concerts
The Symphonic Band, the Wind Symphony, the 4 O'Clock and 5 O'Clock Bands and the Wind Ensemble will perform April 21-23 at the Faulkner Performing Arts Center on the U of A campus.
Honors College to Host 'Best in Show' Dog Celebration
The campus and community are invited to celebrate our furry friends with popsicles, water and dog treats from 3-4 p.m. Thursday, April 25, in the Gearhart Courtyard.
New Parasite Affecting Canadian Partridges Named for Arkansas Poultry Scientist
A long-time colleague in Canada gave a newly found parasite the scientific name Eimeria hargisi in honor of U of A poultry science researcher Billy Hargis.
U of A School of Law Student Selected for Ms. J.D. Leadership Academy Intensive
Tristan Branstetter-Thomas, a second-year law student, was one of 30 students from across the country chosen to participate in the leadership academy at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law in Chicago.
Needy Honored as Distinguished Alumna of University of Pittsburgh Engineering College
College of Engineering Dean Kim Needy was among seven alumni of the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering honored in April as part of the 2024 Class of Distinguished Alumni.