Farm Credit of Western Arkansas Supports ATU’s Agricultural Future with $150,000 Donation
Farm Credit of Western Arkansas has donated $150,000 to Arkansas Tech University to support the construction of the new Farm Credit Agriculture Building. The new facility will provide ATU students with advanced classroom and laboratory spaces, preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders through hands-on learning and innovation.
On September 19, 2024, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas proudly presented a $150,000 check to Arkansas Tech University (ATU), marking a major investment in the future of agricultural education in the state. The donation aligns with Farm Credit’s cooperative principles of giving back to the communities we serve and supporting the agriculture industry. It will help fund the construction of the new Farm Credit Agriculture Building, set to be a state-of-the-art facility for ATU’s agriculture program.
The new building, which broke ground on August 15, 2024, is a game-changer for ATU’s Department of Agriculture & Tourism. Designed with innovation in mind, it will feature advanced welding equipment, tool storage, laboratory and classroom spaces, and other modern equipment aimed at providing students with hands-on experience in the latest agricultural technologies. Construction is expected to begin during the 2024-25 academic year, with support from several major contributors and a federal grant secured by Congressman Steve Womack.
For Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, the partnership with ATU is personal. “Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is proud to support the new Farm Credit Agriculture Building at Arkansas Tech University,” said Brandon Haberer, CEO. “Many of our employees are alumni of ATU's agriculture program, so this donation feels like a natural fit. It’s also a reflection of the cooperative principles we’re founded on—giving back to our communities and investing in the future of agriculture. With both ATU and Farm Credit headquartered in Russellville, we’re proud to be investing in our shared community and the next generation of agricultural leaders.”
The check presentation, which took place at Farm Credit of Western Arkansas’ headquarters, was more than just a formality. It was a celebration of the strong relationship between Farm Credit and ATU. In attendance were members of the Farm Credit of Western Arkansas board, senior management, alumni of ATU who now work for Farm Credit, ATU President Dr. Russell Jones, and ambassadors and staff from ATU’s Department of Agriculture & Tourism.
Farm Credit board chairman Cody Jones, who is an ATU alumnus, couldn’t hide his pride. “As an Arkansas Tech graduate, this donation is special to me. Farm Credit has always believed in giving back to the communities we serve, and I couldn’t be prouder that we’re able to help my alma mater continue to grow. The Farm Credit Agriculture Building will not only promote innovation in agriculture but also provide ATU students with the resources they need to thrive in this industry. It’s exciting to see ATU investing in its agriculture program and leading the way for future generations of ag leaders.”
ATU’s connection to agriculture dates back to its founding as the Second District Agricultural School in 1909, and the school has been committed to ag education since day one. The Farm Credit Agriculture Building represents the latest chapter in that legacy—a commitment to keeping Arkansas’ agricultural community strong and innovative.
With the construction of this new facility, ATU is ensuring that its students have access to cutting-edge resources while continuing to honor the institution’s roots in agriculture. Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is proud to play a role in that mission, continuing to live out its cooperative values and supporting the future of Arkansas agriculture for years to come.
Other News
