Walnut Creek, California, USA
June 23, 2015
Valent U.S.A. Corporation today announced it has been named a 5-star member of the National FFA Foundation. This includes an expanded sponsorship in many of the organization’s projects.
As part of this expanded relationship, Valent will now serve as sponsor of two FFA Agriculture Proficiency Awards. Those awards include the “Grain Production – Entrepreneurship” award, which honors the student who has excelled in effectively and efficiently incorporating the best management practices to produce and market grain crops in their own operation, and the “Nursery Operations – Entrepreneurship/Placement” award, which honors the student who has excelled in their own business or business placement focused on turf, ornamental plants, shrubs and/or tree production for the purpose of transplanting or propagation.
Valent will also provide funding to support the creation of an agriculture stewardship and advocacy platform designed to educate FFA’s membership on science-based facts and agriculture’s global role.
“Over the years, we’ve been impressed with the quality and enthusiasm of upcoming young talent in FFA and their dedication to agriculture,” said Matt Plitt, Valent executive vice president and COO. “Our expanded sponsorship around advocacy and education will encourage dialogue with students regarding the critical issues facing our industry today, such as the products and techniques used by growers and the role they play in producing the crops that feed and clothe our world.”
Valent will also donate 100 student jackets to the FFA’s “Give the Gift of Blue” to ensure that more students are able to have access to the jacket that has become a recognizable symbol of FFA. This donation represents the 100 years Sumitomo Chemical Company, Valent’s parent company, has been in operation and recognizes its centennial celebration.
“Valent’s commitment to the FFA vision of growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture is evidenced by the generous investment made to The National FFA Foundation,” said Molly Ball, National FFA Foundation president. “Through our partnership, FFA members will be able to wear the Blue Jacket, participate in proficiency awards and focus on agricultural literacy and advocacy.”
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