Message from the Chair

Dr. Carolyn Williams

Executive Associate Director, Prairie View A&M University

We are reaping the benefits of innovation and determination from several African Americans as we celebrate Black History and American Heart Month.

The intellectual genius, George Washington Carver, became an internationally famous botanist known for inventing more than 300 uses for the peanut. After graduating from Iowa State in 1896 with his master’s degree, he embarked on a career in teaching and research at Tuskegee Institute. Booker T. Washington, the founder of Tuskegee, hired him to run the agricultural department. Thus, Cooperative Extension was born when Carver developed the Jesup Agricultural Wagon – a mobile classroom that allowed him to teach farmers and sharecroppers how to grow crops. In other words, taking the university to the community, which we continue to do so well today.

In addition, to recognize American Heart Month, the first African American cardiologist who performed the first successful open heart surgery in 1893 was Dr. Daniel Hale Williams. At age 20, he became an apprentice to a former surgeon general for Wisconsin. In Chicago, he opened Provident Hospital and Training School for Nurses on May 4, 1891, the country’s first interracial hospital and nursing school. In 1913, he became the first African American to be inducted into the American College of Surgeons. The 1890 universities continue to fulfill our land-grant mission of providing families and individuals with information to help them make heart-healthy life choices.

Enjoy reading this month’s edition of our newsletter as we feature excellence and profound impact in program delivery and implementation. We are a better country today because Extension staff “Serve with their Heart” throughout the 1890 system and is continuing to strive for excellence.

Representative Alyce Griffin Clarke, a native of Belzoni, Mississippi, earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Alcorn State University in 1961 and a master's degree from Tuskegee Institute in home economics with an emphasis in nutrition in 1965. She has served her community as an instructor for the Washington County Public School District. She also served as a nutritionist with Mississippi Action for Progress (Head Start) and as director of the Nutrition and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Services - Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center.

In 1985, in a special election, Clarke became the first African American female elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives, District 69. She has given 40 years of service. During this time, she supported Alcorn State University through committees such as public health and welfare, university and college appropriations, and youth and family affairs.

Clarke has always been active in her community and district. She is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those she serves through programs like the New Hope Foundation: Connecting the Dots, Regional Association of Drug-Free Schools and Communities, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and Jack and Jill of America Inc.

Donna Kuykendall, Expanded Food Nutrition Education Program educator for Central State University Extension, brought nutrition education to Westwood Elementary School in Dayton, Ohio, where she introduced the MyPlate program to first- through third-graders, igniting their curiosity about healthy eating.

Guiding students through the fundamentals of food groups and the importance of making nutritious choices, Kuykendall's passion for fostering healthy habits radiated in every lesson. "Establishing a solid foundation for our youths through healthy eating is paramount," she says. "It paves the way for a lifetime of wellness and vitality."

From creating vibrant parfaits to baking wholesome bran muffins, each culinary endeavor became an avenue for the children to explore a myriad of flavors and textures. In addition to cooking skills, Kuykendall emphasized the significance of food safety, ensuring the young chefs grasped the principles of cleanliness and safety in the kitchen.

Acknowledging the richness of cultural heritage, Kuykendall introduced the African American Heritage diet curriculum to the students, preparing recipes that honored the diverse culinary traditions within the community.

"Food embodies more than sustenance; it embodies our identity and heritage," Kuykendall says. "By embracing our cultural culinary roots, we deepen our connection to our history and traditions."

As the aroma of freshly prepared sweet potatoes enveloped the classroom, excitement buzzed among the second- and third-graders, eagerly anticipating each culinary adventure with Kuykendall. Her unwavering dedication and infectious enthusiasm continued to inspire and educate. She leaves an indelible mark on the young minds she nurtures, fosters a profound appreciation for the transformative potential of healthy eating, and lays the groundwork for a lifetime of well-being and vitality.

Talaysha Lingham is a Delaware State University Hornet through and through.

After earning her 2010 Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutritional Science, followed by her 2012 Master of Science in Food Science, Lingham spent the better part of the last decade in Hornet Nation, applying her knowledge, skills and abilities to Cooperative Extension nutrition programming.

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Fort Valley State University’s (FVSU) Cooperative Extension recognizes two trailblazers in agriculture – Woodie Hughes Jr. and Dr. Cedric Ogden.

Hughes, FVSU’s assistant Extension administrator state 4-H program leader, became the first African American male 4-H program leader to be recognized as a National 4-H Trailblazer in the history of the National 4-H System. For more than 20 years, Hughes has made an impact through 4-H across the state of Georgia and beyond. During his tenure, the 4-H leader has secured more than $12 million in external funds. This includes his work with the Village Community Garden in Sylvester, Georgia, which impacts youths and more than 500 households.

FVSU’s Office of Sponsored Programs recognized Hughes for his service during the 17th annual Grantsmanship Training and Recognition Institute. He received a plaque and certificate and is recognized as program/project director of the year for 2023.

Ogden, Extension engineer and professor for FVSU’s College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology, was recently honored by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) in Seattle, Washington. He received the 1890 Regional Award for Individual Excellence in Extension for his work with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and alternative energy sources. This includes his efforts in the application of drones for agricultural use and collaborating with Georgia Power in developing a solar farm on FVSU’s campus.

The award is given to a person who promotes innovative engagement with diverse communities by using technology to address economic and environmental challenges. In addition to receiving a plaque for his efforts, Ogden received a cash award of $1,000.

LeTicia Marshall has been part of the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Community Resource Development Team since 2022. In 2023, Marshall was an integral part of the planning committee that put on the first-ever urban agriculture conference in the state of Kentucky.

Weaving the Food Web: The People’s Summit on Food Systems and Urban Agriculture was a two-day conference that included presentations, tours and networking, hosted in Louisville, Kentucky. Kentucky State University partnered with Food in Neighborhoods (FIN) to host 124 people for tours and 223 for educational summit presentations.

“The first-ever People’s Summit was a blast and a success,” Marshall said. “I knew that the planning team would rock it out, and we did. It was definitely a team effort and I’m so grateful to have been a part.”

From a small farm in Oklahoma to becoming a trailblazer in agricultural Extension and outreach, Sherman Lewis’ journey spans over three decades of unwavering commitment. Hailing from humble origins, his story epitomizes the resilience and determination that characterize the essence of Black excellence. After serving his country as a military veteran, he embarked on an agricultural career, diligently working to bridge gaps and foster opportunities for underserved farmers and ranchers.

During his tenure at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Lewis earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Superior Service Award, underscoring his exceptional contributions to the field. Serving as special assistant to the deputy secretary of agriculture, he provided leadership in formulating national policies for outreach to underserved communities. In 1997, following a successful career at the USDA, he chose not to rest on his laurels. Instead, he returned to his alma mater with a vision to leave a lasting impact. There, he established the Center for Outreach Programs, a bastion of support for small, underserved farmers and business owners.

Recognizing his unwavering dedication, Langston University honored him by historically naming the School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences after him. It is the first school named after a living donor.

One of his passions lies in cultivating a love for agriculture among youths.

“If we can reach Black children at a young age, with an emphasis on elementary-aged children’s education, we will have an influence on their future in food and agriculture,” says Lewis.

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As the dean of the College of Agriculture, Environmental and Human Sciences at Lincoln University of Missouri, Dr. Douglas LaVergne serves as a dynamic force behind the Cooperative Extension and research programs, steering the institution toward impactful development.

A teacher at heart, LaVergne's commitment to Extension work is fueled by a love for people and the enduring rewards it brings. Executing the 1890 land-grant mission, he empowers underserved populations through innovative programs in health, agriculture and the environment. Although just beginning his role as dean, LaVergne is already making significant strides, securing funding for cutting-edge processing facilities and expanding research and Extension capabilities. His leadership philosophy, rooted in transparency, creates a harmonious work environment, fostering engagement and accountability.

Looking forward, LaVergne envisions a broader reach for Extension programs, aspiring to touch every corner of the state. His mission to improve the lives of the people across the state of Missouri reflects a commitment to excellence, making him an inspirational conductor of positive change.

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Michelle Eley, Ph.D., community and economic development specialist with Cooperative Extension at North Carolina A&T State University, has been named the first 1890 Fellow of the Southern Rural Development Center (SRDC), the center announced recently.

As an 1890 Fellow, Eley will provide guidance on existing and new project developments to ensure they are relevant to the interests, needs and assets of 1890 Land-grant Universities. She will contribute to research reports and assist in developing and delivering educational and Extension training materials.

Additionally, Eley will work to identify opportunities for mentoring and teaching students from 1890 universities, participate in SRDC’s Board and Technical Operating and Advisory Committee meetings, and support coordination, growth, direction and development of the SRDC’s Plan of Work.

“I’m honored to accept this opportunity from SRDC,” said Eley. “This is a chance to make an impact and help all of our 1890 institutions address critical issues that impact the well-being of people and communities in the rural south. This puts N.C. A&T and Extension at A&T in a leadership role in the center’s efforts to build community partnerships and deliver high-priority, high-impact programs.”

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Prairie View Cooperative Extension Program and Oldways partnered in 2014 to deliver A Taste of African Heritage. The initial collaboration started with conducting the pilot study for diverse audiences.

This culturally relevant and evidence-based program is a six-week cooking and nutrition curriculum that celebrates the healthy, vibrant, plant-based food traditions from across the African Diaspora. Each class is divided into four sections: intro, a historical and nutritional discussion, a cooking lesson and a time to eat together and reflect.

Each lesson is an hour and 45 minutes long. Lesson topics include traditional herbs and spices, greens, whole grains, beans, rice, tubers, stews, fruits and vegetables. This curriculum is designed for people of all ages and interests. A Taste of African Heritage is now an evidence-based intervention in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) Toolkit. In 2023, Prairie View Cooperative Extension conducted 108 programs, reaching approximately 305 participants. Participants expand their knowledge of nutrition and learn simple cooking techniques for healthy living based on delicious African heritage food traditions.

South Carolina State University Public Service and Agriculture seeks to increase economic growth, encourage entrepreneurship and create more employment opportunities in underserved South Carolina communities by launching its series of small business boot camps. The 1890 Extension Community Economic Development Program kicked off the statewide series: Minority Family and Small Business Bootcamp in Charleston and Florence, South Carolina.

Led by Dr. Sandra H. Thompson, state program leader for community and economic development, more than 30 participating businesses and 40 aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners received hands-on training, including financial and tax guides, bookkeeping, entrepreneurship basics and social media marketing. Each business developed a business plan and launched a business sales pitch during the duration of the boot camp.

“Small businesses are the very pulse of the communities,” said Thompson. “With this in mind, it is imperative that we furnish these enterprises with the resources, strategic guidance and growth opportunities to ensure they thrive and have long-term success.”

Participating businesses received a certificate of completion and digital media resources (i.e. website and social media platforms) valued at $1,000.

For more information about the Minority Family and Small Business Bootcamp, contact Thompson at sthompson29@scsu.edu.

The Southern University Ag Center honors the work of Chancellor Emeritus Leodrey Williams, Ed.D.

Williams began his professional career in agriculture with Cooperative Extension in 1965 as a county agricultural agent at Louisiana State University (LSU). In 1972, Southern University established its Extension office and hired Williams as an agricultural specialist. He later held several positions at both Southern and LSU.

He was appointed the acting administrator of the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Extension Service for all U.S. states and territories. He was also elevated to associate administrator of the Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES), the precursor to the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). He has served on several national and international committees and as a consultant in Extension administration and education in Sierra Leone and Ethiopia, as well as helped to develop memoranda of understanding with the Republics of South Africa and China.

Williams returned to Southern as the Cooperative Extension director in 1995, and in 2001, he was named the chancellor of the newly formed Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. He retired from Southern in 2015 after 50 years of service. The title of chancellor emeritus was officially bestowed upon Williams in July 2023.

Anthony Tuggle began work for the Rutherford County Extension Service in 1996 working as a 4-H/agricultural agent. He came to Tennessee Extension after graduating from Alcorn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Economics and an Master of Science in Animal Science.

Tuggle has worked for the University of Tennesee/Tennessee State University Extension for 27 years. He has served as county Extension director for 13 years, becoming the first TSU-paid employee hired to oversee both UT and TSU programs as county director. As county director, he is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the office.

The Tuskegee University Cooperative Extension Program (TUCEP) primarily targets clientele in the Black Belt of Alabama to focus its outreach efforts. TUCEP's focus on outreach and educational services consists of six program areas: global food security; natural resource conservation, environmental sustainability and climate change; community resource development; family, home and youth; nutrition and wellness; and food systems and food safety.

The TUCEP county agents contribute most of their time toward meeting the specific needs of the people in the communities they serve. Jeffery Moore is the perfect example of what TUCEP does in its communities. Moore is a graduate of Tuskegee University and has been involved in the agriculture industry for more than 40 years. He has worked with Auburn Extension, Georgia Extension and as a high school agriculture teacher. However, his dream was to return to Tuskegee and finish his career with Tuskegee.

“At the age of 11, I was watching Green Acres and decided that I wanted to be a county agent,” said Moore. “And I attended Tuskegee to become an agent and I just love what I do. To do workshops, hands-on training and to provide information to the farmers is everything I wanted to do."

Moore provides unique services to his clientele in Bullock and Barbour counties in Alabama. He also writes weekly articles and holds food giveaways. He has personally worked with three Merit Farmer recipients, which is the highest award TUCEP gives to farmers, and presented during the annual Farmers Conference (FC).

Julius Handcock grew up on a farm with his parents and seven siblings in St. Francis County, Arkansas. Now he manages 923 acres for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences.

Since 1999, Handcock has been the resident director of the 871-acre Pearlie S. Reed-Robert L. Cole Small Farm Outreach Wetlands and Water Management Center (SFO-WWMC) in Lonoke, Arkansas. He lives on the property and oversees its operation.

“Living at the Center allows me to closely monitor activities, appreciate the land and wildlife, and have no travel time to work,” Handcock said. “I get to assist researchers and growers with a variety of agriculture-related projects on a daily basis.”

The SFO-WWMC was created to address critical groundwater issues facing Arkansas and the economic plight of small-scale, limited-resource farmers. Research and demonstration projects are conducted by a multi-agency group of scientists, engineers, professors and community organizations.

“In Lonoke, we produce demonstration crops such as rice, soybeans, sweet potatoes, cowpeas, watermelons, greens and muscadines,” he said. “The site has two greenhouses and one high tunnel.”

Handcock is also responsible for the day-to-day operations at the 52-acre Agriculture Demonstration and Outreach Center in Marianna, Arkansas. Fruit and vegetable demonstrations are conducted there in field settings and three high tunnels.

“My love of farming led me to pursue an education in agriculture and eventually work in this profession,” he said. “I wanted to share my agriculture experiences and knowledge with the state of Arkansas.”

Berran Rogers Jr. has been at the helm of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Extension’s Small Farm Program for the past 16 years. As coordinator, he lends his expertise to planning and implementing educational activities related to general farm business and marketing, risk management and sustainable agriculture. He has been an essential resource for small, beginning and underserved farmers to increase their farm profitability on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and beyond.

The programs under his guidance are part of the Improving Farmers Access to Resources and Management Solutions (IFARMS) initiative. A diamond among them is the annual Small Farm Conference, which incorporates a tour of sites highlighting sustainable agriculture. November 2024 will mark the 21st year of the event.

“Everything is about the environment, sustainability and economics — keeping everything local and diversifying in a changing world. That’s what this conference allows farmers to see,” said Roxanne Wolf, who spoke at last year’s event on repurposing old chicken houses for innovative new agribusinesses.

“Berran Rogers has contributed to local and national recognition of UMES Extension among farmers, ranchers and peers because of his motivation and dedication to the survival of small family farms in Maryland, Delaware and Virginia,” said Dr. E. Nelson Escobar, associate dean for UMES Extension.

Rogers earned a master’s degree in food and agricultural science with an emphasis in agriculture and Extension education at UMES. He holds a bachelor’s in agriculture from Virginia State University, where he served as an agriculture management agent and small farm project field coordinator.

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture's (NIFA) Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) provides scientifically backed nutritional information to individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Its goal is to help families make positive changes in five key areas: personal diet, dietary practices, budgeting, food safety and physical activity. West Virginia State University (WVSU) Family and Consumer Sciences Extension educator Kateira Hogan works specifically with youths in the local community.

Programming is conducted in locations convenient to participants, such as community centers, schools and places of worship. Hogan has recently incorporated food demonstrations in locations with functional kitchens. Youths acquire skills such as using a knife properly, measuring ingredients and cooking healthy foods using different budget-friendly recipes.

EFNEP’s effectiveness is measured through statistics, such as improved diet quality. “According to the WebNEERS database, 92% of children and youths who participated in the program improved their abilities to choose foods according to federal dietary recommendations or gained knowledge,” Hogan said.

EFNEP plays a vital role in promoting healthy and fulfilling lifestyles among residents. By providing access to nutritional information and practical skills, it empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

2024 Association of 1890 Research Directors Research Symposium

April 6-9

Nashville, Tennessee

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Public Issues Leadership Development Conference

April 15-17

Arlington, Virginia

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Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research

Grants and funding opportunities

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Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program

The Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program (RHSE) improves the quality of life in rural communities by providing the essential knowledge necessary for successful programs of rural health and safety in the context of food, agriculture, natural resources and human sciences. RHSE program proposals are expected to be community-based outreach education programs, such as those conducted through human science Extension outreach that provide individuals and families with:

• Information as to the value of good health at any age; information to increase individual or family’s motivation to take more responsibility for their own health.
• Information regarding rural environmental health issues that directly impact human health.
• Information about and access to health promotion and educational activities.
• Training for volunteers and health services providers concerning health promotion and health care services for individuals and families in cooperation with state, local and community partners.

The application deadline is March 14. For more information, read the RHSE funding opportunity.