In an effort to boost educational programs in sustainable agriculture and protection of national resources, Michigan State University's Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources will host a special lecture with EARTH University President Jos Zaglul on Aug. 10.

The lecture, "Partners in Sustainability: International Academic Programs at EARTH University," is free and open to the public. It will begin at 10:30 a.m. in Spartan Room B of the Crossroads Cafeteria in the International Center.

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important decision-making factor for food manufacturers because of rising raw material and energy costs, tougher legislation and the growing pressure from consumers and environmental groups.

"Providing experienced-based academic programs in this area is critical to educating our students and the future innovators who will help us address the tough global problems associated with agriculture," said Frank Fear, senior associate dean for the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

MSU has a longstanding relationship with EARTH, located in Costa Rica, which includes helping with the design stage of the university in 1986 to the faculty and student exchange programs today.

As a student exchange partner with EARTH University for the past 12 years, MSU has provided opportunities for students to learn first hand about the challenges of sustainable agriculture, protection of national resources and community development in the tropics. Since the partnership began, nearly 50 MSU students have studied in Costa Rica.

Zaglul is dedicated to preparing leaders with ethical values to contribute to the sustainable development of the humid tropics and to construct a prosperous and just society. He has been president of EARTH University since its inception in 1989 and has provided the vision and leadership for an innovative institution with a unique educational environment that encourages the development of responsible leadership based on values, social commitment, environmental consciousness, academic excellence and an entrepreneurial and enterprising spirit.

The lecture is co-sponsored by the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and International Studies and Programs.

For more information, contact Kristin Janka Millar at kristin@msu.eduor call the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at (517) 353-1690.

Learn more about MSU's Study Abroad Program, Sustainable Development in the Humid Tropics at EARTH University (http://studyabroad.msu.edu/programs/costasust.html).