(NAFB.com) – The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation hosted the 2024 NASDA Next Generation Program at the NASDA Annual Meeting in Indianapolis. The program is designed to engage college students with leaders in agricultural policy and industry, fostering professional connections and promoting exposure to state and federal policy discussions. Launched in 2015, NASDA’s Next Generation Program provides an opportunity for college students to interact directly with leaders who represent state departments of agriculture from around the country. “The unique and innovative perspectives of these students are an essential part of the conversation as we look to support more robust and resilient agricultural food systems,” says NASDA Foundation Senior Director Chris Jones. “With support from our program sponsors, we are proud of the connections and opportunities that this initiative continues to create for the next generation of agricultural leaders.” The students engaged with industry leaders and attended policy meetings.