UAPB postpones Rural Life Conference

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has postponed its Rural Life Conference this year due to the increase in covid-19 infections, said Bruce W. McGowan, interim dean/director for the UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences (SAFHS.)

In previous years, the educational conference has been held in February at the Pine Bluff Convention Center.

The university anticipates a new date within the year to schedule the conference, contingent upon changes in covid.

“Postponing the conference, after having to cancel it last year, was a difficult decision to make,” McGowan said in the news release. “What is most important now, however, is ensuring the health and safety of members of our community. We, at the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences, look forward to interacting with our clientele and partners in public forums such as the Rural Life Conference and field days once the pandemic is under control.”

McGowan recommends individuals stay up to date with SAFHS programming by following the school’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/UAPB.SAFHS) or contact Alicia Dorn, SAFHS communications director, for future updates at (870) 5758227.

“Those who follow us on social media will receive updates on any in-person events we have,” he said. “They also have the chance to participate in virtual educational opportunities offered through our academic departments, the Small Farm Program and the 1890 Cooperative Extension Program.”

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without discrimination.