STONEVILLE – Mississippi State University recently named a building in honor of a retired agricultural researcher and administrator.

More than 200 attended the Aug. 30 dedication of the new Verner G. Hurt Research and Extension Building at MSU’s Delta Research and Extension Center, despite Hurricane Isaac’s inclement weather.

During Hurt’s service of more than four decades to MSU, he served as director of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, professor of agricultural economics and head of that department. He received numerous awards from agricultural organizations and associations.

Hurt’s career epitomized the land-grant ideals of teaching, research and service. Many of his students have been recognized at the state, national and international levels for their contributions to agriculture.

“Dr. Hurt was a great teacher and administrator, and is a great Mississippian. No one is more deserving of having a building dedicated to him. This structure will extend his legacy in agriculture for many, many years to come,” said MSU President Mark Keenum.

The dedication ceremony took place in the new facility’s library. The Hurt Building contains more than 19,000 square feet of office and research space. Designed to be energy efficient, the building allows for natural lighting and contains 2,000 square feet of library space.

“Dr. Hurt has dedicated his life to the Delta and the people of Mississippi. Located in the row crop center of the state, the Hurt Building is a fitting tribute to Dr. Hurt’s legacy as MAFES leader,” said George Hopper, MAFES director.

Covering more than 4,800 acres, the Delta station is one of the world’s largest single agricultural research sites in the world. The center focuses its work on catfish, corn, cotton, rice and soybeans -- the five leading commodities of the Delta.

Writer: Dr. Rebekah Ray, (662) 686-3214