Due to the unpredictable pathogen pressures caused by changing climatic patterns, plant breeders aim to breed for crop verities and hybrids with durable resistance to multiple plant pathogens. Understanding the genetic basis of Multiple Disease Resistance (MDR) will aid in developing maize varieties and hybrids  that have durable resistance to plant pathogens. Through QTL analysis and expression studies we found interesting candidate genes that might be associated with the multiple disease resistance trait observed in maize inbred NY22613. Quantitative genetics is essential for understanding genomic data. The rise of Direct To Consumer – Genetic Testing (DTC-GT) companies like 23andme has resulted in public having access to their genomic data. We discuss why and how plant geneticists should be involved in the policy and science communication of quantitative genetics to the public.