The 2025 ACRE Colloquium brought together university leadership, faculty, students, and partners for a morning of networking, research presentations, and updates on new initiatives.

The program opened with remarks from Dr. Jennifer Mandel, Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt, University of Memphis President Bill Hardgrave, and Memphis Mayor Paul Young, highlighting the shared vision for advancing agriculture and conservation across Tennessee. Faculty who received ACRE research grants gave presentations that showcased ACRE’s interdisciplinary research: from cold tolerance in invasive species and urban biodiversity to AI in agriculture and sustainable biomaterials.

Dr. Shawn Brown shared updates on ACRE’s growth, student engagement, and new collaborations, including the ACRE Dr. Judy Cole Trainee Assistance Grants and a new internship program with the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge supported by Ms. Tommie Dunavant, member of the ACRE Advisory Council.

The event concluded with presentations from Executive Director Dallin Brooks of the National Hardwood Lumber Association speaking about the Hardwood industry in Tennessee and CEO and Executive Director Erik Houston of the Wolf River Conservancy, celebrating a new partnership that will provide long-term opportunities for student learning and conservation impact.