| As COSBAE enters into its 25th year of existence, it is a privilege and honor for this organization to serve Black agricultural economists in academia, the government, and corporate America and small farmers in rural communities. Our success stories have been founded upon research and outreach activities that have helped generate opportunities for agricultural economists and small farmers. COSBAE has a rich history and we are optimistic about our future. The year 2005 opens doors to a research and outreach agenda that focuses on diversification. For the next couple of years, we plan to address issues such as: (1) the status and progress of women and African Americans in the agricultural economics profession, (2) diversity within the agricultural economics discipline, (3) recruitment and retention of students, faculty and staff, and (4) bridging the gap between feeder schools and universities and institutions. Findings from these activities and studies will be used to advocate ways to promote diversity within the discipline. In order to address the needs and concerns of agricultural economists and small farmers, and increase research and outreach opportunities, COSBAE will expand its territory. COSBAE plans to become more active in other activities and conferences outside of AAEA. COSBAE will participate in the Southern Meetings, Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) and host workshops and/or other learning seminars that advocate equality and diversity in agricultural economics programs. It is our hope that COSBAE’s participation in other conferences and workshops will mark the beginning of many more research initiatives and outreach activities. COSBAE has
accomplished much in the past, but there is still more work to be
done.
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