About The Policy Research Center
The Socially Disadvantaged Farmers & Ranchers Policy Research Center (SDFR), a national center located in the Biotechnology building on the Lorman campus of Alcorn State University, specializes in policy research impacting socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers (SDFRs) located across the United States. It is staffed with an executive director, program assistant, policy analyst, research analyst, management analyst and communications specialist.
Background
The Policy Center was authorized in the 2014 Farm Bill and was created to be a voice for SDFRs and to ensure that data driven information is available for Congress and other stakeholders. The Farm Bill specified that the Policy Center was to be located at an 1890 university.
Mission
The mission of the Policy Center is to conduct research, analyze policy and make recommendations seeking to achieve equitable and economic integration of USDA programs and policies for socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, communities, and rural landowners.
Vision
The Vision of the Policy Center is for the Policy Center to be the premiere authority for information on the history, current conditions, trends and future projections of socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers (SDFRs) and communities.