
Jay T. Akridge
Trustee Chair in Teaching and Learning Excellence Professor of Agricultural Economics Purdue University
The Purdue Center for Rural Research, Education, and Outreach ensures rural collaborative partnerships that promote high quality experiences for teachers and students; coordinates education outreach efforts; and provides sustainable opportunities for advancing the needs of rural communities through interdisciplinary research and advocacy.
The Homegrown Teacher Initiative is a pilot program currently for elementary and special education programs. One semester placements in your home district are available for many secondary programs. Purdue’s Homegrown Teacher Initiative is funded through the Indiana Department of Education’s Attract, Prepare, Retain (APR) Grant. The state-wide APR grants are aimed at helping schools and communities strengthen, expand, and diversify the educator pipeline.
The National Rural Education Association is proud to release “Why Rural Matters 2023″—the 10th in a series of reports analyzing the contexts and conditions of rural education in each of the 50 states and calling attention to the need for policymakers and others to address rural education issues in their respective states.
The Rural Education Summit is an annual gathering that brings together educators, policymakers, community leaders, and advocates dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in rural communities. This collaborative space allows stakeholders to address the unique challenges and strengths of rural education, foster innovation, share best practices, and build a network to support rural students and educators.

Trustee Chair in Teaching and Learning Excellence Professor of Agricultural Economics Purdue University

President/CEO Food Finders Food Bank

Coordinator LGBTQ Center Purdue University
