Planting Seeds, Growing Dreams: Empowering Youth

The Ian Smith Foundation Junior MANRRS Program is committed to inspiring and preparing the next generation of diverse leaders in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. Based in Indianapolis, this innovative program targets middle and high school students, providing them with the tools, mentorship, and hands-on experiences needed to excel in these vital fields.

Through a dynamic curriculum of mentorship, leadership development, and real-world exposure, Junior MANRRS equips students with the skills to succeed in agriculture, STEM, and related disciplines. Our program’s objectives include:

• Increasing graduation rates for minority students, ensuring academic success and future opportunities.
• Boosting college and trade school enrollment by connecting students with mentorship, guidance, and resources through direct exposure to higher education institutions.
• Disrupting misconceptions about agriculture by highlighting the broad range of career opportunities within this critical industry.
• Enhancing diversity in agriculture and STEM fields by fostering the next generation of leaders from underrepresented communities.
• Cultivating essential “soft skills,” including leadership, public speaking, professionalism, and teamwork—skills that are vital to career success.
• Providing opportunities for hands-on research and real-world learning, allowing students to engage in applied science and present their findings at regional and national conferences.

By empowering students with the knowledge, practical experience, and a network of mentors, Junior MANRRS is helping to shape the future of agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. Through these efforts, we are preparing the next generation of diverse leaders to thrive in these critical industries.