The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences stands at the forefront of the long-term success of agriculture and natural resources in Florida. The PIE Center contributes to this by conducting research that focuses on understanding public opinion and its influence on public policies relating to important agriculture and natural resources issues. The center also extends our findings to stakeholders through educational outreach and trainings that utilize cutting-edge technologies.
Our three-pronged approach of research, training and communication helps us navigate these complex issues and move closer to achieving our vision — a public that is informed about and engaged in agriculture and the natural resources.
With recurring state funds, the PIE Center has been able to hire a team of faculty, staff and students who increase our capacity to conduct research and outreach that addresses critical issues and serves our stakeholders’ needs. We have assembled an excellent team of talented people who channel their passions into achieving goals that we have only been able to imagine before this year.
None of this would be possible without early support from UF’s Department of Agricultural Education & Communication, which provided the foundation and inspiration from which the center evolved. The department continues to house faculty and students who work on PIE Center programs and projects.
As we continue to work toward our goal of enhancing public understanding through practical research in education, communication and leadership development, we hope to lead the way in developing effective tools and strategies to engage citizens on key agricultural and natural resources issues. We are on an exciting journey, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
Thank you for your support,
Tracy Irani
PIE Center Director
