MSU dedicates animal education center

Last edited 8:06 a.m., March 11, 2026 [Editor's note: The college name has been corrected.]

Spaces to foster hands-on learning and innovation in agriculture education were dedicated March 7 as part of a volunteer day at Missouri State University’s William H. Darr College of Agriculture.

MSU officials and supporters gathered to complete service projects aimed at enhancing the Darr Agricultural Center.

At the start of the day, the completion of the small animal education center and the ag innovation hub were dedicated during a ceremony.

“Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Missouri’s economy,” said Melissa Bledsoe, dean of the Darr College of Agriculture, in a news release. “Through strategic investments in facilities, experiential learning and industry collaboration, the Darr College of Agriculture is preparing students to lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving field.”

Projects were paid for by a mix of private donations and state funding.

In late 2019, the Darr Family Foundation announced an initial gift of $6.5 million to build an agriculture-focused magnet program and construct the small animal education center.

The Ag Academy, a partnership with Springfield Public Schools, opened in 2022.

The small animal education center has been available for student use since late 2023. It is used to study animal care, nutrition, physiology and to prepare students interested in veterinary science.

MSU officials said the 14,000-square-foot center includes teaching laboratories, animal holding and care areas, grooming and washing stations, classroom space and areas for hands-on instruction in small animal management and health.

The ag innovation bub, used by students since late 2025, provides space for applied research, student projects and industry engagement.