The University of Missouri (MU) Board of Curators has made a significant decision to honor former Missouri Governor Mike Parson by naming a new meat science laboratory after him. This move underscores Parson’s dedication to the agricultural industry, a vital component of Missouri’s economy.

Chair of the UM Board of Curators, Todd Graves, expressed the board’s sentiments, stating, “Today, the board voted to honor a true champion of Missouri’s greatest industry. Coming from a long line of cattlemen and farmers, I understand the importance of agriculture to our state. I am grateful for public servants who recognize the industriousness and ingenuity of Missouri farmers. I am privileged that one of my first acts as board chair will be to celebrate Governor Parson and his legacy in advancing agricultural education and workforce development.”

The Michael L. Parson Meat Science Education and Training Laboratory

The newly named facility, the Michael L. Parson Meat Science Education and Training Laboratory, will be integrated within the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR). This state-of-the-art building aims to provide critical tools and technologies designed to support and enhance the meat processing industry in Missouri.

Governor Parson, a third-generation cattleman, expressed his gratitude for the recognition. “I can think of few greater honors than to have my name on a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to teaching and training Missouri’s next generation of meat farmers,” he remarked. “I proudly supported the work of the University of Missouri to advance agriculture in our state during my tenure as governor, and I am grateful that the Board of Curators has seen fit to recognize our shared vision for the future of Missouri with this distinction.”

Investment in the Future of Agriculture

During his tenure from 2018 to 2024, Parson’s administration allocated $35 million toward the construction of this facility as part of recent Missouri budget bills for 2023 and 2024. This substantial investment reflects Parson’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector in the state.

Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri, highlighted Parson’s impact on the institution, saying, “Governor Parson’s bold leadership and support to the University of Missouri System over the past eight years empowered our educational, research, outreach, and workforce development missions. He made significant investments in workforce and infrastructure programs, creating educational and economic impacts for Missourians.”

Comprehensive Agricultural Policies

In addition to funding for the new laboratory, Governor Parson was instrumental in passing various agricultural policies during his administration. These include an income tax credit for farmers who sold or leased land to beginning farmers, a veterinary student loan repayment program, and expanded tax credits for agribusiness operations across the state. From 2019 to 2024, Parson and the Missouri legislature appropriated approximately $4 billion to the Missouri Department of Agriculture, further underscoring his commitment to the agricultural community.

Innovation in Meat Processing

According to Christopher Dauber, vice chancellor and dean of CAFNR, the new facility will play a crucial role in promoting innovation within the meat processing sector. “This new facility will promote innovation in meat processing through research, provide training to our workforce on the latest technology and best practices, and inform communities across the state on food sourcing and sustainability,” he stated. “Agriculture is a critical industry in our state, and fostering growth in food manufacturing entrepreneurship is a responsibility we take seriously at MU.”

Looking Ahead

Upon completion, the Michael L. Parson Meat Science Education and Training Laboratory will consolidate existing facilities, including the abattoir and the Don Naumann Muscle Foods Processing Laboratory, more commonly referred to as the Mizzou Meat Market. The updates will include expanded laboratory space, additional classroom areas, and faculty offices, establishing Missouri’s only working and teaching laboratory exclusively dedicated to meat processing.

MU is planning to hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility on April 18, 2025, with completion expected in 2026. This initiative not only honors Governor Parson’s legacy but also strengthens the future of agriculture in Missouri by equipping the next generation of agricultural leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge.