NPB’s Ashton Pellom at the MANRRS 40th Annual Training Conference & Career Expo
The National Peanut Board (NPB) was represented at the MANRRS 40th Annual Training Conference & Career Expo in Dallas, Texas, by Marketing and Communications Associate Ashton Pellom. The conference hosted thousands of students and professionals who gathered to celebrate 40 years of advancing excellence across agriculture, natural resources and the sciences.
Centered around the theme “Leadership to Legacy,” the conference provided a dynamic environment for meaningful engagement, professional development and mentorship, while highlighting the strength and promise of the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Throughout the event, attendees participated in workshops, research presentations (including several focused on peanut research) and networking opportunities that emphasized both innovation and community. The experience reinforced the importance of intentionally curated spaces that support Black and minority professionals, creating opportunities for authentic connection, shared learning and career growth.
“As someone who understands what it means to navigate spaces where representation is limited, attending MANRRS was both impactful and reaffirming,” said Pellom. “As the first and only Black male hired full-time in NPB’s 25-year history, experiences like this are a powerful reminder of why representation, mentorship and intentionally supportive spaces matter. The level of excellence, innovation and passion from students and professionals alike was truly inspiring, and it reinforced the importance of continuing to build pathways for future leaders in agriculture.”
From student-led research to conversations with industry leaders, the conference underscored the critical role these spaces play in strengthening the agricultural talent pipeline and fostering long-term success across the industry.