Article written by Ryan Ozzello (’21), treasurer of Houghton MANRRS
Whether we like it or not, most of what happens to us in our lives is not of our choosing. Good or bad, we find ourselves having to adapt to our new situations if we want to continue to grow. Like a plant uprooted and replanted in different soil, if we don’t learn our new situation, we will miss the beautiful rose buds and delicious red apples of our lives for others and ourselves to enjoy.
Our MANRRS chapter at Houghton College has sought to adapt right alongside its students this semester so that it can continue to provide them with tangible professional development opportunities, as well as excellent internship and career prospects.
For those of you who may not be familiar with MANRRS, it is a national organization with a mission to promote academic and professional advancement by empowering minorities in agriculture, natural resources and related sciences. Practically, this looks like equipping individuals from minority groups with professional skills and opportunities in the expansive agriculture industry through webinars, conferences, workshops, competitions, and career fairs.
In light of in-person restrictions this semester, the chapter here at Houghton is leveraging Houghton’s beautiful and expansive outdoor space to help students connect with each other and with the club. Additionally, they are making the best use of the virtual world by attending various online MANRRS webinars, conferences, and career fairs. Now more than ever, students on campus have the greatest access to MANRRS resources.
To kick things off this semester, Houghton MANRRS hosted a scavenger hunt at the Field of Dreams where students not only had a great time, but also learned more about the professional and agricultural world. While racing to complete all of the secret location challenges and solve the final riddle, students learned more about Houghton’s solar array, technology in the agriculture industry, and even how to foster better team meetings in class or in the workplace.
Mary Vandenbosch, President of Houghton MANRRS, says that “the scavenger hunt was a great opportunity to showcase how Houghton MANRRS is fun and dedicated to educating students about important topics.”
Alongside being adept at creating fun and educational opportunities for students, the organizers of Houghton MANRRS are also very knowledgeable and skilled in practices such as public speaking, leadership, and career development. This past weekend during the MANRRS Regional Conference, Mary Vandenbosch took first place in the Region 1 Impromptu Public Speaking Contest, qualifying her to compete at the 2021 national conference scheduled for April in Atlanta, Georgia. Held virtually this semester, students were able to compete in areas such as public speaking and interviewing, and participate in workshops focused on topics such as leadership, career development, diversity, and inclusion.
Ryan Ozzello, past president and current treasurer of Houghton MANRRS, attended three workshops focused on diversity and inclusion where he was able to actively engage with experienced panelists on topics about identity, social justice, how to navigate the workplace from a BIPOC lens, and better understand imposter syndrome. Speaking about his experience he said, “I can confidently say that I have grown in my understanding of current issues and my role in supporting a more just society with regard to race and identity.”
Our MANRRS chapter has adapted and is prepared to continue thriving this year. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss active participation, including professional development opportunities on campus and the national conference in the spring. Please contact us at houghton.manrrs@gmail.com or join us at our general chapter meeting, Thursday, October 8th at 7pm in the Java Conference room. We will be discussing upcoming events and community service opportunities.
