Julia Edwards Headshot

MANRRS | Julia Edwards

From Tech to Terra Image

Bridging the Gap from Tech to Terra with MANRRS

As a candidate for Region 6 MANRRS Undergraduate Vice President, I'm committed to bridging the gap between technology and agriculture. As an Information Systems student at Utah State University, I understand the importance of practical skills. My mission, 'From Tech to Terra,' symbolizes our journey from digital innovation to agricultural progress.

I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of their identity, major, or background, feels empowered to contribute meaningfully to MANRRS and its mission. Each letter in our acronym represents not just a word, but a pillar of strength and competence: Minorities, Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences.

My platform is built on the belief that true empowerment stems from the cultivation of both hard and soft skills. Together, let's cultivate a community of resilient, innovative leaders ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. We are the NOW generation!

MANRRS Mission

Julia's Journey with MANRRS

Julia's journey with MANRRS began in October 2022, marking the start of an impactful chapter in her life. As an active member of the USU's MANRRS chapter, her dedication was quickly recognized, leading to her role as an officer and Chapter Secretary. Her commitment to the organization's mission shone brightly, earning her the prestigious position of National Ambassador in June 2023. In this capacity, Julia's passion for furthering the MANRRS mission on her own campus and throughout Region 6 has been evident. Her efforts to inspire and engage have not gone unnoticed, culminating in her participation as a panelist at the 2023 GFRAS "Aspire to Inspire: NextGen MANRRS" in October 2023, and at the USU Huntsman School of Business Diversity Days panel in September 2023. Not only has Julia excelled in her leadership and advocacy roles, but she has also achieved notable success in competitions, securing first place in the Region VI Cluster Elevator Pitch competition in November 2022 and winning first place in the 2024 Policy Pros Case Competition hosted by Merck Animal Health. Through her journey with MANRRS, Julia has not only contributed to the mission of empowering minorities in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences but has also carved a path of inspiration for others to follow.

2024 Highlights

2024 First Place Merck Animal Helath Policy Case Competition. 2024 Photo infront of the US Capitol. 2024 NASDA Group Photo. United We Thrive.

Participated in the 2024 Ag Policy Conference as a fellow of the NASDA/MANRRS Ag Policy Summit Fellowship Program. Won first place in the Policy Pros Case Competition hosted by Merck Animal Health. Engaged in valuable networking with Agriculture Commissioners from across the US, and interacted with stakeholders and lobbyists from leading companies at the Ag Policy Conference in Washington D.C.

2023 Highlights

2023 GFRAS Aspire to Inspire: NextGen MANRRS Panelist 2023 Networking with Colorado State Officials 2023 Touring Hungenberg Produce Organic Carrot Farm

Represented MANRRS at the 2023 Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS), contributing to the "Aspire to Inspire: NextGenMANRRS" panel discussion. Connected with Colorado Agriculture State officials and international representatives. Additionally, explored sustainable practices during a tour of the Hungenberg Produce Organic Carrot Farm. Helped organize and run the 2023 Region 6 Regional Conference in Las Vegas, NV.

2022 Highlights

2022 George Washington Carver 2022 Charles Young 2022 Hattie Carthan

Served as the Creative Director for USU MANRRS Black History Initiative, leading a successful 2022 Black History Month campaign. Designed educational graphics that highlighted Black trailblazers in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences, promoting awareness and inspiration within the community. Won first place in the Elevator Pitch Competition at the 2022 Region 6 Regional Conference in Davis, CA.