DOYLESTOWN, Pa. — Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recognized Delaware Valley University’s commitment to agriculture education through its student-run A-Day, by thanking students, faculty and staff for their roles in Pennsylvania’s second agricultural fair of 2018.
A-Day, short for Activities Day, was first organized by students in 1949, to showcase agriculture on the campus of the National Agricultural College, as DelVal was known then. Since 2004, A-Day has been officially recognized as one of Pennsylvania’s 109 county and community agricultural fairs, encouraging members of the university and community to enter items for competition alongside the traditional A-Day staples.
“A-Day is a unique twist on Pennsylvania’s fair formula, where students, instead of community volunteers, host a celebration of our agricultural heritage,” said Redding. “I’ve always admired DelVal for the school’s commitment to hands-on learning, which is vital in order to train the next generation of agriculturalists. This year’s A-Day is no different — a reassurance that those entering the agricultural workforce tomorrow are equipped to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities available to them in our food industry.”
Gov. Tom Wolf has made employability and workforce training a priority of his administration, including in the agriculture and food sector of the economy. Agriculture is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers. As many as 75,000 new and replacement workers are needed to fill positions in the food, fiber and veterinary care industries over the next decade.
By making strategic investments in education, job training and career readiness, the Wolf administration is helping to prepare skilled workers to meet the demands of the industry, Redding added.
Redding previously served as Delaware Valley College Dean of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.
Pennsylvania is home to 109 agricultural and community fairs that showcase the commonwealth’s rich and varied agricultural traditions as well as current agricultural achievements. These local fairs precede the Pennsylvania Farm Show in January, considered Pennsylvania’s state fair.
Pennsylvania fairs attract more than 5.5 million visitors annually, employing nearly 6,600 people part-time and 1,700 full time, and contributing more than $126 million to the state’s economy. Statewide, fairs provide agritourism opportunities for communities, connecting participants with local farmers and producers, livestock, harness racing, agricultural vendors and businesses and family living opportunities.
Find fairs near you at www.pafairs.org. Share your Pennsylvania fair memories on social media with #PAFairs.
— Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture