College of the Ozarks beef cattle operation provides students with hands-on experience in livestock management and beef production.

College of the Ozarks recently welcomed members of the Missouri Beef Industry Council (MBIC) for their quarterly board meeting and an afternoon tour highlighting the College’s agricultural programs and facilities.

The MBIC board, which meets quarterly to oversee the state’s beef checkoff efforts, selected the Branson area for this year’s regional meeting. Following their business session at The Keeter Center, the group spent the afternoon touring several of the College’s agriculture departments, including its beef and dairy operations.

According to Sydney Long, executive director of MBIC, these quarterly meetings are essential for guiding how beef checkoff dollars are invested across Missouri. “Our mission is to drive demand for beef,” Long said. “Our board meetings are integral in gathering feedback on projects and campaigns that are taking place across the state. Each meeting allows us to connect with local producers, educators, and industry partners who share that same goal.”

Long emphasized that hosting one of the year’s meetings at College of the Ozarks offered the council a unique opportunity to see how the next generation of agricultural professionals are being prepared for careers in the industry. “Our board was thrilled to see the current meat processing facility and hear about plans for the new facility that is under construction,” Long said. “The livestock and beef farm managers were excellent hosts, and several of the beef farm employees joined to speak with our group as well. The hands-on learning opportunities available to students will prove invaluable no matter where their careers take them.”

College of the Ozarks integrates work education into every student’s experience. In the agricultural department, students operate working facilities such as the College dairy, beef farm, greenhouses, and feed mill. Each operation provides practical training and character development while supporting the campus and local community.

The Missouri Beef Industry Council serves as the state-level organization responsible for administering the beef checkoff program, which funds education, research, and promotional efforts that support cattle producers and increase consumer demand for beef. Through events like the visit to College of the Ozarks, the council strengthens its partnerships across Missouri’s agricultural network.

College of the Ozarks agriculture faculty and students shared the College’s approach to education, which combines rigorous academics, Christian character development, and vocational experience, core elements of the College’s mission.

Long said her team left impressed by the professionalism and hospitality they experienced throughout the visit.

“Overall, it was an excellent experience from start to finish,” she said. “The College’s agricultural setup demonstrates exactly how practical education can prepare young people for success in agriculture and beyond.”

The tour concluded with a discussion of the College’s plans for continued development within its agriculture program, including expansion of processing and livestock facilities that will enhance both student learning and industry collaboration opportunities.