Monday Minute Highlights | |
Introduction
- 2026 Homecoming Recap: Rooted & Rising
- Last Chance to Make a Difference: CAFNR Strategic Plan Initiatives Application
PVAMU Extension
- Techtober Sparks STEM, Service, and Career Exploration for Homeschool Youth
- Multiple Extension Agents Recognized By Association of Extension Administrators
Wellness In Houston
- Read The Latest Wellness Wire
CAFNR Research
- CAFNR Research 3+1 Vision of Excellence
- CAFNR Research’s Dr. Ram Ray Receives Fulbright Award
- CAFNR Research Advances PVAMU, USDA, AgInnovation, and CAFNR Strategic Priorities
- WATCH: World Food Day Presentation
- 2026 SEED Grant Recipients
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CAFNR Student Research Scholars Showcase: Celebrating Excellence in Discovery and Innovation
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CAFNR-Core Lab Hosts GC-MS Instrumentation Training
- Sensory Panel Recruitment Registration
- AITC Highlighted For Leading With Technology Innovation
- Summer 2026 CAFNR Research Review
- Research Seminar Series
- Land Grant Seminar Series
- CAFNR Research Events
Internships & Opportunities
- University of Florida: Online Veterinary Courses
- Capital Farm Credit Summer Internships
PVAMU CAFNR Events & More
- Stay Connected to PVAMU 150th Anniversary
- CAFNR is Hiring
- Share Your Story
- From the Editor
- Upcoming Events
- PVAMU + CAFNR Strategic Plan Alignment
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Rooted & Rising: CAFNR Celebrates Prairie View A&M University’s 150th Anniversary with a Week of Panther Pride, Community and Giving
Prairie View A&M University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) celebrated Rooted & Rising with a week of Homecoming festivities, alumni engagement, industry partnerships and agricultural traditions. From Boots, Brews & Business to 1013 Day’s recognition of CAFNR’s farm and beef cattle specialists and its partnership with Prince Beef, the celebrations showcased the college’s lasting impact. CAFNR also helped secure approximately $27,000, plus a $20,000 Texas A&M University System match during the Homecoming Giving Challenge, turning Panther pride into meaningful support for the university’s future. Discover how CAFNR honored its legacy while cultivating new opportunities for generations to come.
| | Last Chance to Make a Difference: CAFNR Strategic Plan Initiatives Application | | Techtober Sparks STEM, Service, and Career Exploration for Homeschool Youth | | |
Techtober is a STEM program that was implemented with homeschool youth in Uvalde County by 4-H Agent Jennifer Barnett. During National 4-H Week youth participated in 1.5 hours of hands-on STEM learning each day for five days on 10/5/2026-10/9/2026 combining technology, career exploration, and community service.
Participants learned how to use 3-D printers and created accessible bottle-opening tools for the elderly. As a One Day 4-H service project, which is the culmination of National 4-H week, the youth distributed the tools they created to residents at Uvalde Healthcare and Rehabilitation. The students also explored coding and AI through Minecraft, with an emphasis on using AI safely and responsibly.
Career exploration was another important part of Techtober. Youth used VR headsets with Workforce Middle Rio Grande to explore different career pathways and gained additional hands-on experience by building solar technology projects from Shop 4-H.
Overall, Techtober gave our homeschool youth a fun, practical introduction to 3-D printing, coding, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, solar technology, career awareness, and community service, preparing them for live and work.
Jennifer Barnett – Extension Agent – 4-H Youth Development
| | Multiple Extension Agents Recognized By Association of Extension Administrators | | |
In this September edition, the AEA proudly recognizes the recipients of the 2026 Association of Extension Administrators’ Excellence in Extension Award and celebrate the many 1890 Extension professionals whose work continues to make a meaningful difference in the communities they serve.
From distinguished service and leadership honors to youth development awards, these individuals exemplify excellence, dedication and a steadfast commitment to improving lives. We are thankful for their contributions and the value they bring to the Cooperative Extension System. We invite you to read their inspiring stories and learn more about their efforts to advance the land-grant mission.
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Writted by Dr. Raymon Shange
AEA, Chair
1890 Extension Administrator, Tuskegee University
| | Content developed by: Malcolm Thomas, Senior Communications Specialist, Wellness In Houston | | |
Know Your Risk, Know your Numbers: A Diabetes Awareness & Wellness Workshop
Wellness in Houston invites the community to Know Your Risk, Know Your Numbers, an upcoming wellness event designed to help individuals better understand important health indicators and take proactive steps toward healthier living. Participants will have access to health education and helpful resources, along with a turkey giveaway while supplies last.
Friday, November 6, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. - Noon
Kashmere Multi Service Center
4802 Lockwood Dr., Houston, TX 77026
Registration: https://pears.io/events/pvamu-cep/11249/
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Welcome to The Wellness Wire! Each month we bring you the latest news, events, and resources designed to help you thrive. From community highlights to upcoming programs, this is your one-stop connection to all things
Wellness in Houston.
Wellness in Houston’s mission is to address health challenges and food insecurities by promoting health, wellness, and nutrition to communities in the Greater Houston area, ultimately encouraging healthy, long-term lifestyle changes and behaviors.
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CAFNR Research: From Discovery to Impact
CAFNR Research is advancing PVAMU’s land-grant mission by turning science into practical results for producers, students, families, and communities. Our progress directly supports CAFNR’s 2025–2030 goals to advance research excellence and partnerships, USDA’s 2026 priorities for farmer profitability, new markets, food quality and human health, soil productivity, and protection from pests and disease, and PVAMU 2035: Journey to Eminence.
Research Highlights
Modern research environment: Four laboratories, a core laboratory, and an additional lab space were renovated or created, strengthening CAFNR’s capacity for competitive, interdisciplinary research.
Producer-centered innovation: Research in AI-enabled drought prediction, precision agriculture, water conservation, resilient production, animal science, and sustainable food systems is helping move discovery toward greater efficiency, productivity, and farm-gate impact.
Food, nutrition, and health: Interdisciplinary work on food quality, waste, water, energy, health, and human behavior supports healthier communities and more resilient food systems.
Scholarly excellence, visibility, and leadership: Research output and funded grants are rising: 44 publications, 39 conference presentations, and more than 12 peer-reviewed papers from Dr. Ram Ray’s team in April–May 2026. Dr. Ray was nominated as a Fulbright Specialist for 2026–2029. Dr. Erdogan Memili, Executive Associate Director, represents CAFNR Research at APLU, AgInnovation, ARD, and other national forums, strengthening its visibility, partnerships, and voice.
Student success and workforce development: Assistant Director Dr. Laura Carson leads CAFNR’s undergraduate research initiative, teaching and guiding students in the responsible conduct of research while supporting faculty mentors. This coordinated effort helped 56 undergraduate and 35 graduate researchers earn record accolades, present at national meetings, and secure competitive scholarships and internships.
Land grant and community impact: The Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Farm and Ranch is a hub for CAFNR’s land-grant mission in research, student success, and Extension outreach. NextGEN Agriculture, STEM & Career Exploration Day also engaged approximately 150 Houston ISD students.
What Comes Next
CAFNR will build on this momentum by expanding mission-aligned funding, strengthening research administration and infrastructure, growing graduate education, and accelerating research-to-impact pathways. Priority frontiers include producer profitability and new markets, soil and water stewardship, biosecurity, AI and precision and digital agriculture, food quality and human health, and commercialization—while advancing PVAMU’s goal to become a premier public, research-intensive HBCU and a national model for student success.
Our next chapter depends on an engaged CAFNR community. Alumni, producers, industry partners, community leaders, faculty, staff, and students can shape research priorities, mentor emerging leaders, build partnerships and markets, advocate for investment, and move innovation into practice. Together, we can strengthen farms and food systems, improve health, expand student opportunity, and advance CAFNR and PVAMU as trusted leaders in research, service, and community impact.
| | CAFNR Research’s Dr. Ram Ray Receives Fulbright Award | | |
Prairie View A&M University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) proudly recognizes Dr. Ram Ray for receiving a Fulbright Award, an achievement that highlights his contributions to research, scholarship, and academic excellence.
A professor in CAFNR whose research focuses on natural resources and environmental systems, Dr. Ray has advanced interdisciplinary research addressing environmental sustainability, climate-smart agriculture, water resources, and agricultural innovation. His work has also created opportunities for students to participate in hands-on research and collaborate across disciplines.
This recognition reflects CAFNR Research’s commitment to advancing impactful scholarship, fostering collaboration, and expanding opportunities for faculty and students to contribute to solutions for global challenges. Dr. Ray’s achievement further highlights Prairie View A&M University’s dedication to research excellence and its land-grant mission of education, discovery, and service.
Congratulations to Dr. Ram Ray on this distinguished achievement!
| | CAFNR Research Advances PVAMU, USDA, AgInnovation, and CAFNR Strategic Priorities | | Prairie View A&M University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) is strengthening its research impact through strategic alignment with PVAMU 2035: Journey to Eminence, USDA research priorities, AgInnovation, and the college’s From Root to Fruitstrategic plan. Led by Dr. Erdogan Memili, CAFNR Research advances interdisciplinary discovery, external funding, scholarly excellence, and collaborative partnerships through its 3+1 mission framework. Discover how CAFNR is connecting research, student success, and Extension to develop practical solutions that strengthen agricultural innovation, food security, environmental sustainability, and communities across Texas and beyond. | | 2026 SEED Grant Recipients | |
Sameh Abdelwahed, PhD
Associate Professor of Chemistry at Prairie View A&M University
“Synthesis of Novel Biodegradable Triazolopyrimidine and Quinolones Derivatives as Targeted Antimicrobials for Pathogenic Bacteria in Shrimp Aquaculture”
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Lori Banks, PhD
Assistant Professor of Biology at Prairie View A&M University
“From Clonal Expansion to Functional Erosion: Tracking Instability in Food System Fungi”
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Katherine Halfacre, PhD
Assistant Professor of Health and Human Performance at East Texas A&M University
“Cooking in College: A Multisite Culinary Intervention to Promote Student Nutrition Security”
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Yuqi Jin, PhD
Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Prairie View A&M University
"Securing U.S. Honeybee Farms: Machine Learning-Powered Acoustic Detection of Invasive Northern Giant Hornet with Collimated Acoustic Metamaterial Lens Elimination"
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Konstantinos Pappas, PhD
Associate Director, Energy Institute, Division of Research, Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES)
“Modeling the Cost of Inaction in Texas Gulf Coast Food Systems: A System Dynamics Water-Energy-Food Nexus Approach”
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Jenelle Robinson, PhD
Associate Professor of Nutrition, College of Agriculture Food and Natural Resources at Prairie View A&M University
"Assessing Food Security and Diet Quality Among Collegiate Student-Athletes"
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Jacob Szeszulski, PhD
Assistant Professor at Texas A&M AgriLife Research
"Developing Implementation Supports for Increasing the Consumption of Local Foods in School Cafeterias"
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The Food Security Research Center’s SEED Grant program was designed to provide funding to support and facilitate preliminary research and scholarly collaboration within the area of food security from farm to consumer.
Grants of $25,000 were awarded to researchers across the Texas A&M System to fund research that positions recipients to secure external funding to advance the Center's mission.
| | CAFNR Student Research Scholars Showcase: Celebrating Excellence in Discovery and Innovation | | Prairie View A&M University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) celebrated the achievements of its undergraduate and graduate researchers during the Student Research Scholars Showcase. Featuring interactive demonstrations, innovative prototypes, and faculty-mentored research, students presented science-based solutions addressing challenges in agriculture, food security, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. University leadership joined the showcase to highlight the transformative power of research and its role in shaping future scientists, innovators, and leaders. Discover how CAFNR scholars are turning discovery into meaningful impact for Texas and beyond. | |
CAFNR Research Core Lab Hosts GC-MS Instrumentation Training
Prairie View A&M University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) hosted a Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): From Sample Vial to Identified Compound training on October 20, 2026. The session introduced faculty, researchers and students to the fundamentals of GC-MS instrumentation, sample preparation, analytical methods and data interpretation. Participants explored compound identification using NIST library searches, qualitative and quantitative analysis, method setup, safety considerations and troubleshooting. The training supported CAFNR’s commitment to strengthening research capabilities, expanding technical expertise and equipping the next generation of scientists with practical skills that advance scientific discovery and interdisciplinary research.
| | PVAMU CAFNR Celebrates Book Launch on Artificial Intelligence and the Water-Energy-Food Nexus | | |
On September 17, Prairie View A&M University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) Research highlighted the intersection of artificial intelligence, agricultural innovation, and sustainable resource management with the launch of Artificial Intelligence and the Water-Energy-Food Nexus: Innovations for Sustainable Resource Management, edited by Dr. Ali Fares.
The book explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can transform water, energy, and food systems through innovative technologies and practical solutions to global sustainability challenges. Featuring 14 chapters and contributions from more than 40 experts, the volume examines emerging applications such as machine learning, digital twins, and hyperspectral imaging to advance agricultural productivity, water conservation, energy efficiency, and food security.
Topics include smart agriculture, crop water management, yield prediction, poultry production, postharvest processing, climate-resilient agriculture, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI adoption. By bringing together interdisciplinary perspectives, the book offers valuable insights for researchers, students, practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders seeking to advance sustainable resource management.
The launch reflects CAFNR’s continued commitment to research excellence, technological innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As AI continues to reshape agriculture and natural resource management, this publication underscores the importance of connecting scientific discovery with practical applications that benefit producers, communities, and the environment.
Through initiatives like this, CAFNR continues to advance research and knowledge that support a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable future for food, agriculture, water, and energy systems.
| | Apply Now: SPIN Travel Award | | AITC Highlighted For Leading With Technology Innovation | | Prairie View A&M University’s Agricultural Innovation and Technology Center (AITC) was highlighted in the PVAMU Research & Innovation newsletter, recognizing its excellence in advancing technology and innovation across campus. This recognition underscores AITC’s leadership in integrating emerging technologies, supporting research initiatives, and developing innovative solutions that strengthen the university’s academic and research missions. As a leader in agricultural innovation and digital transformation, AITC continues to demonstrate how technology can drive collaboration, enhance learning, and shape the future of research at PVAMU. | | Land Grant Seminar Series | | Weekly Occuring Event Series | | Important CAFNR Research Dates | Internships & Opportunities | |
Explore Online Veterinary Courses at the University of Florida
Undergraduate and graduate students interested in veterinary medicine, animal health, and wildlife care can expand their knowledge through online courses offered by the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine this spring. Topics include dog, cat and horse health, aquatic wildlife medicine, and sea turtle rehabilitation. Registration is now open for the spring semester, January 11–April 21, with courses available to students at other colleges and universities. Discover these opportunities to build specialized knowledge and prepare for careers in veterinary medicine and animal science.
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Capital Farm Credit Announces Summer 2027 Internship Opportunities
Students interested in careers in agriculture, finance, technology, and agricultural lending are encouraged to explore Capital Farm Credit’s Summer 2027 internships. Positions across Texas offer hands-on industry experience, $18/hour pay, and a $1,500 relocation stipend for eligible interns. Through Farm Credit’s
Launching Leaders program, eligible students attending HBCUs may also qualify for a $3,500 sign-on bonus. Applications close November 16, 2026. Explore available positions and take the next step toward a career in agricultural finance.
| 2027 American Angus Association Summer Internships | |
Looking for hands-on experience in the beef cattle industry? Applications are now open for the American Angus Association®, Angus Journal®, and Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) 2027 summer internships.
These paid, 10-week internships give college students the opportunity to build professional skills in areas including writing, editing, photography, communications, and agriculture, while gaining practical experience within the beef industry. Six internship opportunities are available.
The Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program Internship is also accepting applications, offering agriculture-related students under 25 the chance to gain hands-on ranch experience while learning from Angus breeders and industry mentors.
Application Deadline: November 18, 2026
Explore the opportunities and application requirements through the American Angus Association Career Center.
| | CAFNR is hiring! Visit PVAMU Careers for more information on open positions. | |
Share Your Story
Alumni-Faculty-Staff-Students
| | Stay Connected to PVAMU 150th Anniversary | | Celebrate 150 years of Prairie View A&M University by visiting the official PVAMU 150th Anniversary website. Stay up to date with the latest anniversary news, special stories, campus updates, events, historic moments and more as we honor our legacy and look toward the future. | | |
Homecoming was a celebration to remember! Many thanks to all alumni, faculty, staff, and students who participated in our engagement events, including 1013 Day! It's always great to see familiar faces, meet new people, and reminisce about our shared experiences on "The Hill". Seeing the excitement of alumni at the Lindsey Weatherspoon Ag Breakfast was heart-warming and a reminder that as much as we do, we can always do more. A HUGE thanks to all who donated to the Ag Breakfast and the Homecoming Giving Challenge...our students appreciate you!
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Thank you for reading the Monday Minute! Behind every story we share, photo we capture, video we produce, event we elevate, and moment we amplify are talented people who care deeply about showcasing our college and the people who make it special.
The CAFNR Marketing and Communications team is constantly on the move! Whether they're behind a camera, crafting a story, supporting an event, or finding new ways to connect with our audiences, the team works across the college to showcase the people, programs, research, and impact that make CAFNR special. As the Sesquicentennial is here, you'll see the team capturing the moments that tell our story. You are a part of the CAFNR story and we are proud to tell it.
When you see a camera, stop, smile and show us your PANTHER PRIDE!
GO PANTHERS!
Dr. TeKedra Pierre
Editor-In-Chief
Director, CAFNR Marketing and Communications
Email: cafnrcomm@pvamu.edu
| | Here are some upcoming events that you won't want to miss! Through our dynamic events, there are various ways to connect with the CAFNR community while learning more about our mission and impact. Unless otherwise noted, all events are open to the public yet may require registration for participation. | | |
💼 VETERANS SMALL BUSINESS HUB!
Are you a veteran interested in starting or growing a small business?
Join the Waller County VFW and Prairie View A&M University Extension to explore resources, opportunities, and support available to veteran entrepreneurs!
📅 Saturday, November 7, 2026
⏰ Presentation: 9–11 AM
🍽️ Complimentary Lunch: 11 AM–12 PM
📍 Waller County VFW
1236 New Orleans St., Hempstead, TX
✅ Admission is FREE! Registration is encouraged to help us plan for lunch and materials. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits.
Help us spread the word! Share this opportunity with a veteran who could benefit.
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FARM BEFORE FIELD TOUR
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!!!! PLEASE RSVP!!!
https://pvamu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bBDR1h93VyXOo1o
COME TOUR THE FARM!!
There's only so much you can learn sitting in a chair. Sometimes you've got to get your boots dirty, put your hands on something, and see how things work firsthand!
Join us November 7th, from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, for our Farm Before Field Tour!
We're bringing education straight to the farm with hands-on learning opportunities, live demonstrations, and chute-side discussions. This is your opportunity to ask questions, see management practices in action, and get information you can actually take home and use in your operation.
You'll also have the opportunity to meet and visit with some of our Prairie View A&M University Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Specialists!
🐂 Damion Turner – Beef Cattle Specialist
🐐 Scott Horner – Small Ruminant Specialist
🥩 Dr. Lea Kinman – Meat Science Specialist
🌱 Jeremy Peaches – Urban Agriculture Specialist
Whether you've been raising livestock for 30 years or you're just getting started, there's always something new to learn. We're not coming out just to talk agriculture. We're coming out to demonstrate it, answer your questions, and help you make better management decisions.
Come ready to learn, ask questions, and get involved!
📅 Saturday, November 7, 2026
⏰ 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 On the Farm!
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Strategic Plan Alignment
PVAMU + CAFNR
| The CAFNR Strategic Plan aligns with PVAMU’s JTE 2035 by advancing innovation in teaching, research, and extension; strengthening community and industry partnerships; and promoting sustainable solutions that prepare future leaders to address agricultural and environmental challenges. Learn more by clicking the links below. | | The CAFNR Strategic Plan includes a detailed alignment with JTE 2035. The alignment will drive innovation, sustainability, and partnerships to advance agriculture and prepare future leaders. CAFNR: Harvesting Healthy Communities and more. | | | | |
