Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics Food Security Group

This report, authored by Eric W. Crawford, Michael T. Weber, and John M. Staatz, provides a comprehensive historical account of the international contributions of Michigan State University’s Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics (AFRE). Covering a 90-year period from 1933 to 2023, the document highlights AFRE's evolution into a global leader in agricultural economics and development.

Key milestones include AFRE’s pioneering involvement in capacity-building initiatives such as institutional partnerships in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where it played a pivotal role in advancing agricultural research, policy development, and educational outreach. The paper charts the department’s work in early international development paradigms, including post-World War II recovery and the "Green Revolution," and explores its transitions to modern approaches like food security, environmental sustainability, and resilience to global shocks.

The authors detail how AFRE faculty and collaborators developed innovative methodologies, contributed to major research projects, and addressed critical challenges in food systems, trade, and economic policy. The report also examines factors behind AFRE’s success, including interdisciplinary collaboration, long-term partnerships, and robust support for research and education.

Through this historical lens, the report emphasizes the enduring impact of AFRE’s work on global agricultural and economic development, with lessons that remain relevant for addressing present and future challenges.