Rooted in Community: CoBank's Commitment to Science, Education, and Innovation at the Danforth Center
At the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, meaningful progress happens at the intersection of science and community — and it takes partners who share that vision to make it possible. CoBank has been one of those partners since 2020, investing more than $128,000 to advance plant science research, science education, and agricultural innovation.
As a mission-based cooperative lender and member of the Farm Credit System, CoBank encompasses corporate social responsibility initiatives focused on food systems, rural communities, and the people who depend on them. That mission finds a natural home at the Danforth Center.
JJK-FAN students plant starter seed trays with help from CoBank volunteers. CoBank supports the Danforth Plant Science Center’s mission to advance plant science research and ag innovation.
CoBank's support has touched some of the Center's most dynamic initiatives. As a sponsor of AgTech NEXT and Ignite, CoBank helped connect emerging agricultural technologies with entrepreneurs and communities poised to benefit from them. Their investment in the Danforth Center Impact Fund broadens the Center's capacity to pursue science with real-world consequences for food security, nutrition, and climate resilience.
Perhaps nowhere has CoBank's commitment been more visible than at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture & Nutrition Innovation Center — known as JJK-FAN. Located in East St. Louis, Illinois — the hometown of Olympic legend Jackie Joyner-Kersee herself — JJK-FAN brings together science education, workforce development, and access to fresh food for students, families, and aspiring scientists. CoBank's investment goes beyond financial support: their colleagues have also volunteered their time and expertise during STEM education and career days, bringing real-world perspective to students exploring futures in science and agriculture. CoBank's investment in local and urban food systems makes this partnership a natural fit.
The Danforth Center is leading critical advancements in science and innovation to strengthen food systems and uplift communities now and for future generations. CoBank is proud to be a partner in that mission.
Leslie Hagele CoBank Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility
CoBank's Ryan Sandoz, Relationship Manager (third from left), and LaTonya Keaton, Regional Vice President (far right), join Danforth Center colleague Antonio Brazelton with students at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture & Nutrition Innovation Center.
"The Danforth Center is committed to enhancing underserved communities with high quality STEM experiences. We are extraordinarily grateful to CoBank for their partnership — not just in their financial commitment, but in their genuine engagement with our mission," said Dr. Giles Oldroyd, president of the Danforth Center. "CoBank’s support is helping ensure that the benefits of plant science reach the communities that need it most."
To learn more about partnership opportunities at the Danforth Center, click to visit our Corporate Partners page.