Montana State University has announced a $10 million gift from an anonymous donor in support of programs that promote precision agriculture, youth development, agriculture scholarships, and the state’s farm and ranch heritage.

The gift will establish several endowments focused on programs based in the MSU College of Agriculture and MSU Extension, including a $5 million endowed chair in precision agriculture who will lead development of new technologies and their data-driven applications for the future of Montana's largest industry. Another $3 million will endow MSU Extension’s 4-H youth development programs, increasing 4-H’s reach and impact in the 56 Montana counties and all seven reservations. The remaining $2 million will be split between a new scholarship fund supporting MSU students pursuing a degree in the College of Agriculture and the Dan Scott Ranch Management program.

“Developing agriculture leaders and technologies to help this vital part of the state’s economy have been foundational missions for Montana State for 129 years,” said MSU president Waded Cruzado. “We are beyond grateful for these endowments, which will allow us to continue and expand that mission.”

(Photo credit: MSU/Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez)