FRESNO, CA (KMJ) – California’s Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross was in Fresno, Monday, attending the FFA State Convention, but she took time to visit the Fresno State campus.
Fresno is the Ag world! I’m always talking about Fresno, Fresno County when we think of agriculture and the Central Valley. This is the heart and having this school here is a big reason for that for the success of AG.” – California Ag Secretary Karen Ross.
Ross visited key areas in Fresno State’s Ag program, meeting with University President Joseph Castro, and Sandra Witte, the Dean of the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.
“[It’s a] mutually beneficial opportunity for her to see what we’re doing, and give us input on what we can do to further her agenda, but I also think it’s an opportunity for us to share with her what we are doing and what she can do to help us, going forward.” Jordan College Dean Sandra Witte.
The tour included the 1000 acre campus farm, and the Bee Sweet Citrus Fresh Fruit packing line.
“I think that she thought the facility here at the Jordan Research Center was very beautiful and that it is going to be very influential and helpful to students and faculty on campus doing research. – Jalil Dillard, ASI Representative, Jordan College.
Inside the Culinology kitchen, where students receive hands-on experience in research and culinary arts, Ross observed students preparing various dishes. There’s no pressure, of course, when California’s Secretary of Agriculture is watching you work, as Junior Katie Campbell (below, 2nd from right.) found out.
“I was showing her the sauce I was making for Duck a L’Orange.” Katie Campbell, Junior Culinology Program, Fresno State.
Ross was impressed with what she observed at the University.
“My faith is restored in the future, they are so bright, so articulate.” — California Ag Secretary Karen Ross.
Click below to listen to the story by KMJ’s Liz Kern:
Extended Version:
