The Southern Rural Development Center (SRDC) seeks to strengthen the capacity of the region's 29 land-grant institutions to address critical, contemporary rural development issues impacting the well-being of people and communities in the rural South. Work force development, education, leadership training, food security, civic engagement, urban sprawl, and access to health care and information technology are representative of the issues addressed. During the past year, the SRDC has initiated research activities addressing the influence of family, school and community social capital on the educational outcomes of rural youth; welfare and food stamp programs; and the educational needs of the Southeast United States. In addition, the SRDC was asked to work with the Mississippi Development Authority to create a database that would provide valuable information on each of the state's workforce investment areas, including key demographic and economic features of each area. Research conferences and workshops were conducted on Latinos in the South, measuring rural diversity, and the role of education in promoting the economic and social vitality of rural America. Research investments were made in food assistance research, sustainable communities, and sustainable agriculture. To link extension educators with communities, training workshops and educational resources were offered in economic diversity, community planning, service infrastructure, civic engagement, and youth/adult workforce development. This annual report lists publications; funding sources; and members of the board of directors, advisory committee, partners, and center staff. (TD)