When scientific knowledge and long-standing academic experience are accompanied by a genuine interest in people and in the future of the agrifood sector, a message can carry particular weight.
With this perspective, Professor Robert M. Goodman, University Professor and Executive Dean Emeritus at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA, addressed the graduates of the Agrifood Leadership Programme 2025–2026 of New Agriculture New Generation at the programme’s closing event in the summer of 2026.
His active involvement in the collaboration between Rutgers University and New Agriculture New Generation, combined with his significant academic, scientific and leadership experience, gave particular value to his message. As a University Professor and Executive Dean Emeritus, Professor Goodman brings a perspective that connects scientific research, education, innovation and the real needs of agrifood communities.
As he noted, agriculture should not be viewed as a collection of separate activities. Food production, nutrition, culinary traditions and rural landscapes are interconnected parts of a broader ecosystem—one that supports jobs, decent livelihoods, resilience and a significant share of Greece’s economic and cultural wealth.
The ambition of the Agrifood Leadership Programme goes beyond preparing better farmers, processors, financiers, manufacturers, marketing professionals or export managers. Its goal is to cultivate leaders who can understand systems, connect people and sectors, and recognise the opportunities that emerge through collaboration.
To illustrate this ecosystem-based approach, Professor Goodman referred to the development of new disease-resistant hazelnut varieties, which enabled the sustainable revival of hazelnut cultivation in New Jersey through the coordinated contribution of many disciplines and professionals across the sector.
In closing, he encouraged graduates to look beyond individual roles and conventional solutions. By remaining open to unexpected partnerships, often-overlooked resources and new forms of value, they can help build a more resilient, innovative and interconnected agrifood ecosystem in Greece.
As Professor Goodman concludes:
“Don’t be so focused on what you are looking for that you fail to see what you have found.”
Watch his full message.
The Agrifood Leadership Programme of New Agriculture New Generation was developed under the scientific guidance of Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA.
Applications for the new Agrifood Leadership 2026–2027 cycle are open until 20 September 2026.
Learn more about the programme and submit your application.
