John J. Green, Director of the Southern Rural Development Center, Receives 2025 Rural Renewal Research Prize

Photo of Dr. John Green, pictured with nominators, and OSU Vice President of ANR, holding his award plaque

John J. Green, Director of the Southern Rural Development Center (SRDC) and Professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Mississippi State University, has been awarded the 2025 Rural Renewal Research Prize. The honor was presented during the annual Rural Renewal Initiative symposium hosted by Oklahoma State University (OSU) and held in Woodward, Oklahoma.

The prestigious recognition is given to individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and contributions in research, education, and engagement that advance the future vitality of rural communities.

In addition to receiving the award, Green delivered a speech entitled “Exploring Pathways for Rural Renewal: Conversations About Development.” In his remarks, he discussed the importance of reflection on collaborative efforts and innovative strategies to strengthen rural economies, support community resilience, and enhance the quality of life for rural residents. 

Green is widely recognized for his work in rural demographic and community research. Throughout his career, he has championed the needs as well as highlighted the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for the development of rural communities. Under his leadership, the SRDC works to establish and expand its networks connecting universities with community, state, and national organizations to support research-informed solutions to these rural challenges.

These contributions align well with the mission of the Rural Renewal Initiative led through OSU, which promotes interdisciplinary efforts that connect community residents and local leaders to higher education faculty and students to collaboratively support rural development.

For more information about the Southern Rural Development Center and its programs, please visit srdc.msstate.edu.

Pictured, left to right: Dr. Anna Kleiner, nominator, Consultant, Community-Based Research and Evaluation; Dr. John J. Green, award recipient, Director, Southern Rural Development Center and Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Mississippi State University; Dr. Scott Senseman, Associate Vice President, Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Oklahoma State University; and Dr. E. Helen Berry, nominator, Emerita Professor of Sociology, Utah State University. 

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This material is based upon work supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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