UF and Land Grant University have come together to create a website called LGU Colombia Consortium. This is an exciting moment in the strategy of increasing UF's visibility in the world by helping to advance a country's (Colombia’s) peace-building efforts through research, teaching and extension collaborations that enhance rural and agricultural development.

The new website provides a clear message of what an alliance of land grant universities represents, what the mission consists of and how UF can engage with Colombian stakeholders to make an impact in the developing world. It shares recent news about LGU activities in Colombia, presents their portfolio of projects, and outlines their areas of expertise and opportunities for collaboration in Colombia. You can also find information about each of the nine university members, including interests, projects and faculty working in Colombia.

Most importantly, the website is also the new communication tool for interested Colombian organizations. It provides an easy mechanism to message us by email, or to send your suggestions, ideas and proposal for collaboration. LGU wants to hear from you!

I'm very proud of having been elected as the first chair of the LGU Coordinating Council and spearheading this effort from University of Florida. I am very thankful for all the support from the Center for Latin American Studies, UF-IFAS-Global and the University International Center. I am confident that it will help strengthen links with Colombian partners who share the commitment to a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable rural economy in support of Colombia’s peace-building agenda.