WHO WE ARE
The Department of Animal and Food Sciences addresses the major issues faced by animal agriculture today – production efficiency, sustainability, animal welfare, environmental stewardship, food safety and food quality – through our programs in research, instruction and extension. These issues represent challenges and areas for science-based discussions with clientele and consumers. We are involved in multidisciplinary research programs that advance our knowledge of animal biology and production systems and their relationship to the environment, as well as processing, preservation, and improvement of human foods. Our instructional programs focus on the application of science and technology to animal and food production. Our extension programs advance sustainable agricultural and food systems and assist our youth to develop character traits needed to be successful citizens.

OUR VISION
As a part of the Land Grant system, our teaching, research and extension programs strive to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

LAND-GRANT VALUES
We are guided by the values underlying the land-grant philosophy:
• learning – enhancing access to educational opportunities for all;
• discovery – expanding knowledge through research; and
• engagement – collaborating with diverse institutions, communities, and people to improve lives.
A hallmark of our work is the integration of these three values – learning, discovery, and engagement – into programs that make a difference.

OUR MISSION
The mission of the Department of Animal and Food Sciences is to:
• develop, improve, and promote sustainable animal production systems;
• improve the health and well-being of animals in food and non-food production systems;
• enhance the quality, utilization and safety of food products;
• facilitate life-long learning through:
- creative research and discovery,
- challenging and encompassing education,
- effective engagement and technology transfer.