THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SCIENCES
FALL 2019
PROVIDING TRAINING, RESEARCH AND ASSISTANCE
CITIZEN SCIENCE WATERSHED LAB
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
HURRICANE DORIAN ASSISTANCE
CAFS INTERNATIONAL FOOT PRINT
STUDENT SUCCESS
TECHNOLOGY
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
PROVIDING HELP IN A TIME OF NEED
GLOBAL
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
OUTREACH
RACHEL FERNANDEZ
STUDENT’S PASSION NEW FUNDING WINS SCHOLARSHIP APPROVED CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
1
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dean
message from the
Robert W. Taylor, Ph.D.
Greetings, As another semester comes to an end, we reflect on all the achievements and challenges, and express profound appreciation and gratitude. During this time of the year, we look back and reflect on what we have accomplished and look forward to what we must do in the new year and beyond. I am truly grateful for the privilege to represent more than 100 faculty and staff members who serve our college dedicatedly through teaching, research, extension and outreach, recruitment and retention, alumni affairs and student support services. During my seven years as dean of the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS), it has been a pleasure to oversee the collaboration and team effort of our faculty, researchers, staff and community partners, which has led to grant funding, impactful research, publications, and most of all the training and graduating of quality students into society.
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CAFS Magazine Fall 2019
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DEANS OFFICE Dean and Director of Land-grant Progrms, College of Agriculture and Food Sciences: Robert W. Taylor, Ph.D. Editor: Andrine Stanhope, Ph.D. Sr. Admin. Assistant: Phyllis Moore Assoc. Dir. Research: Wayne Walker Asst. Dir. Research: Jenaya Anderson-Hayes Coord. Admin. Services: Courtnay Pilcher CREATIVE Layout & Design: azure77.com COPY EDITING Sabrina Thompson STAFF WRITERS Andrine Stanhope Cynthia Portalatin
CAFS had a lot of activities to report this year, especially in the area of student success. This year-in-review special edition magazine, highlights some of our students in leadership positions and other outstanding students who represents what the Florida A&M University (FAMU), College of Agriculture and Food Sciences is all about—a college where “Future Leaders Are Grown.” Our students are leaders in the FAMU Student Government Association and national professional organizations. They have been recognized for outstanding leadership by professional clubs and organizations at both the local and national levels; award winners at professional meetings and conferences, and awardees of internships.
Vonda Richardson
None of this, however, would be possible were it not for a team of dedicated faculty and staff who worked profusely, during and outside of normal working hours on various academic and professional development programs with our students.
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS www.azure77.com Joshua Lynsen Harriett Paul
To our students who walked across the stage a few weeks ago, on behalf of the student body, faculty and staff, I say congratulations! We wish you much success as you begin a new phase of your life. To the entire FAMU family, alumni and friends, I wish you and your family have an enjoyable yuletide season, and wish for you more prosperity in 2020.
Robert W. Taylor, Ph.D. Dean
Latasha Tanner CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS Rod Carter Veronique George
Byron Dobson Heather Johnson
Karena Mahung
Aaliyah Wilkerson
OFFICE Assoc. Dean, Research: Stephen Leong, Ph.D. Assoc. Dean, Academic Programs: Neil James, Ph.D. Director, Center for Biological Control: Lambert Kanga, Ph.D. Director, Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research: Violeta Tsolova, Ph.D. Director, Center for Water Resources: Odemari Mbuya, Ph.D. Director, Cooperative Extension and Outreach: Vonda Richardson
#10
Col. Hoffman
featured must read in this issue
NAVAL ROTC NEW COMMANDING OFFICER PG.
more...
Aggie
LAWRENCE CARTER
LAST-LIVING BUFFALO SOLIDIER It's a day etched into the memory of 97-yearold STEVE LEWIS. He was in high school at the time. "I was in 12th grade. It was on a Sunday. At that time, we didn't have TV. We had radio." Lewis remembers it well. That day would change his life, like so many others, forever.
Keiondra
06
THE IMPACT FROM HIS MILES
04
32
MISS 1963 FOR THE FAMU CHAPTER OF COLLEGIATE 100
inside 24 >>> Mikela Pryor My CAFS Experience
One important thing that can be taken for granted, that I like about CAFS, is the one-on-one attention that students receive from faculty. Also, there are many opportunities for students to collaborate with professors, if we so wish. The faculty and staff care about the students' academic progress and success.
featured Students WHERE FUTURE LEADERS ARE GROWN The Colle of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) has been known to produce leaders in the industry. With less than 300 students enrolled in the college, the department has found itself at the forefront of campus news and their students take over campus leadership. From winning national Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) research competitions to winning campus elections as student body president, Mr. FAMU and class senators, CAFS and its faculty have invested into developing quality leaders of this generation.
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26 >>> Student’s Passion for Global Food Safety Results in Scholarship 28 >>> CAFS Scholar One of 10 Selected for Conservation Leadership Program 30 >>> A Caring Journey Through CAFS: A College that Believes in its Students 36 >>> Kome's 33 Years of Service! 38 >>> CAFS International Foot Print 40 >>> FAMU CAFS Students Bayer Award 41 >>> Extension News 42 >>> FAMU-CAFS MANRRS Students Brought Home Top Awards 43 >>> Providing Help in a Time of Need 44 >>> Citizen Science Watershed Lab 45 >>> FAMU Represented at United Nations Civil Society Conference 46 >>>Alumni Spotlight 48 >>>CAFS Notes
Aggie Last-Living Buffalo Solidier
A
by Rod Carter
fter the Japanese bombed
care of animals led me to take animal
Steve Lewis grew up in Palmetto,
1941, President Franklin D.
Florida, a small Manatee County town,
of the times we were not given the
with a population in 1940 of just
opportunity to do much research
under 3,500.
and all that we wanted to do,” Lewis
Roosevelt issued an address that reverberated across the nation, declaring it “a date,
After he graduated from high
husbandry at FAMU, but because
remembered.
which will live in infamy.” He went on
school, he moved to Tallahassee in
to say “the United States of America
February 1942 to attend Florida A&M
history, “shortly after its founding,
was suddenly and deliberately
College, what was then called Florida
the school became the beneficiary
attacked by naval and air forces of the
Agricultural and Mechanical College
of educational provisions for African
Empire of Japan.”
for Negroes. He decided to attend
Americans made possible through the
Florida A&M namely for one reason—
passage of the Second Morrill Act of
to study agriculture.
1890. Through this important federal
It’s a day etched into the memory of 97-year-old STEVE LEWIS. He was in high school at the time. “I was in
According to published FAMU
“I wanted to study agriculture as all
legislation, FAMU, formerly known as
12th grade. It was on a Sunday. At
my teachers, and most of my contacts
the “State Normal College for Colored
that time, we didn't have TV. We had
had graduated from Florida A&M,” he
Students,” was designated to receive
radio.” Lewis remembers it well. That
said.
a land grant to support learning as
day would change his life, like so
4
many others, forever.
Pearl Harbor on December 7,
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
“My love for breeding and taking
related to agriculture and mechanic
I wanted to study agriculture as all my teachers, and most of my contacts had graduated from Florida A&M... - STEVE LEWIS
he had envisioned it. The bombing of Pearl Harbor while in college, changed the course
returned to Florida A&M and in 1947, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in
had to be in the Enlisted Reserve
Agriculture. He later earned a master’s
Corps and they would march like
degree from the University of Northern
soldiers all during the week and
Colorado. He maintained ties with
practice. That went on for two
Manatee County, taught in the Manatee
years,” Lewis said.
School System and helped to desegregate
student was cut short. He enlisted
support of branches of learning as related to agriculture and mechanic arts, including military tactics.” However, unlike the 1862 predominantly white counterpart institutions, FAMU and 16 other 1890 historically Black colleges were not given any resources to carry out the research and development areas of the land-grant tripartite system until 1966. As a result, the school was relegated to teaching without the benefits of research and extension funds from either the federal or state governments. Reading it is one thing. Living it is something different. Lewis lived and learned under those conditions. He never really got to live out his passion the way
After military service, Steve Lewis
of his life. “Every man in college
Eventually, his time as a college
arts, including “to the endowment and
and then ‘you’ go eat.”
as a youngster. He taught agriculture for one year, then spent the rest of his career
in the U.S. Army and was assigned to
as an elementary teacher. Lewis spent
the U.S. 9th Cavalry, one of two all-Black
more than 30 years working in Manatee
cavalry units better known as the “Buffalo
County communities as a teacher,
Soldiers.” He was trained to ride, shoot
volunteer and community leader.
and fight as part of a horse-mounted
One of his greatest memories as a
military unit, training that has long since
young student, decades ago at Florida
been replaced by mechanized units. Mr.
A&M, is joining the Alpha Xi Chapter of
Lewis was retrained in the modern tactics
Kappa Alpha Psi.
common to World War II.
“It was good. It was a good school and
The all African-American cavalries,
it is still one of the best schools,” he said.
known as “Buffalo Soldiers,” started during
Lewis also added, his service and that of
the Civil War and lasted until 1948 when
others who served our country, needs to
President Harry S. Truman integrated the
be remembered. “They don't give it the
military. By the early 1950s, they were
publicity it needs.”
gone. “We didn't know a thing about
He has great advice for people who
Buffalo Soldiers when we were in the army.
want to go into agriculture now. Do it.
We never heard of it,” he said.
“Agriculture now is terrific—you now get
Lewis may be the last living Buffalo
to do scientific research and so much
Soldier around. He remembers his duties
more. I would recommend that anyone
well. “Each man was assigned a horse and
wanting to study agriculture or any of
you had to ride the horse, bring him in,
its branches, to do so.... agriculture is
wash him down, clean him up, feed him
scientific now.”
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
5
COLONEL RANDALL S. HOFFMAN enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1984 and attended recruit training at MCRD, San Diego, California graduating Company Honorman, “H” Co, 2d Recruit Training Battalion. He was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Private First Class. He served from 1985 to 1989 with 2d Force Reconnaissance Company, Camp Lejeune, N.C., participating in combat operations “Earnest Will” and “Praying Mantis.” He departed the active duty Marine Corps as a Sergeant on 5 August 1989 to pursue a commission as a Marine Corps Officer.
6
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
FAMU Naval ROTC New Commanding Officer
COL. RANDALL HOFFMAN In May of 1994, he graduated from
National Army (ANA) and the Iraqi
Kansas and subsequently served as
Indiana University with a Bachelor of
Special Forces (ISF). In both theaters, he
a faculty member at the U.S. Army’s
Arts degree in History. While attending
participated in Operations “Enduring
School of Advanced Military Studies. He
college, he served as a Platoon Sergeant
Freedom” and “Iraqi Freedom.” In July
recently served as the III MEF, G35 Future
with Co K, 3d Battalion, 24th Marines,
of 2005, Col. Hoffman reported to Terre
Operations Officer in Okinawa Japan. Col.
USMCR, in Danville, Illinois. Also, during
Haute, Indiana as the Inspector-Instructor
Hoffman recently transferred from his
that year he was commissioned a Second
of Co K, 3d Battalion, 24th Marines.
last command assignment, serving as the
Lieutenant from the Platoon Leaders
During his tour with 24th Marines, he
Weapons and Field Training Commanding
Course. Upon completion of the Infantry
supported 1/24’s deployment to OIF with
Officer at MCRD, Parris Island, South
Officer Course in Quantico, Virginia,
the augmentation of 90 Marines from Co K
Carolina.
Hoffman was transferred to 2d Light
while also supervising the training of the
Armored Reconnaissance Battalion,
24th Marines Military Transition Teams.
2d Marine Division and was assigned
Hoffman’s awards include the Bronze Star with combat V and gold star, the
Hoffman is a distinguished graduate
Defense Meritorious Service Medal,
Platoon Commander, Company A,
of the Marine Corps Command and Staff
the Meritorious Service Medal with
Third Platoon, participating overseas in
College, graduating with a Masters in
three stars, the Navy and Marine Corps
“Operation Assured Response,” “Operation
Military Studies and also a graduate of the
Commendation Medal, the Navy Marine
Guardian Retrieval” and “Operation
School of Advanced Warfighting receiving
Corps Achievement Medal, and the
Noble Obelisk.” After returning to Camp
a Masters of Operational Studies. From
Combat Action Ribbon with gold star.
Lejeune, Hoffman served as the Executive
2010 – 2012, he served as the Deputy
Colonel Hoffman is a Marine Combat
Officer, of Company D, 2d Light Armored
Director, School of Advanced Warfighting,
Diver, Parachute Rigger, Jumpmaster, and
Reconnaissance Battalion. In April 1998,
Marine Corps University. Hoffman served
HALO Jumpmaster.
upon completion of his tour at Camp
as the Commanding Officer of Instructor
Lejeune, he reported for duty as the
Battalion - The Basic School, from June
on July 17, 2019 as the Commanding
Officer in Charge (OIC) of the Amphibious
2012 to November of 2013; after which
Officer and Professor of Naval Science at
Raids and Ground Reconnaissance
he was assigned to HQ International
Florida A&M University.
Section, Marine Corps Systems Command,
Security Assistance Force (ISAF), in Kabul,
Quantico, Virginia.
Afghanistan where he served on the
Marie Smith. They have two daughters;
COM ISAF’s Commander’s Action Group
Caroline, twenty-one and Emma, fifteen
Amphibious Warfare School. Upon
as an Operational Planner and Senior
and a son Shawn who is twenty-two.
Graduation, Hoffman was deployed to
Military Advisor. Hoffman attended Top
South West Asia where he served as the
Level School at the U.S. Army’s Advanced
Senior Battalion advisor to the Afghan
Strategic Leaders Program, Ft Leavenworth
In July of 2001, he reported to
Col. Hoffman relieved Col. Bradley Close
Hoffman is married to the former Dawn
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
7
am KEIONDRA MARSHAL a senior, animal science/
unlimited opportunities, because of the various networking and
pre-vet scholar from West Palm Beach, Florida. My
professional development activities at the local, regional and
journey to the “Hill” is a bit different from most of
national levels. At our local chapter, our co-advisors Thomas and
my classmates. In spite of the fact that I was raised
Timmons ensure that there are workshops that focus on career
by a family full of Rattlers, I thought that Florida
development, such as Résumé Building, Behavioral Interviewing
A&M University (FAMU) was not the place for me.
Tips, and soft skills such as, Teamwork, Problem-solving, and
Although I rejected the idea of attending FAMU,
Work Ethics. These are on-going activities. MANRRS also opened
my family never pressured me to follow in their
doors to regional and national conferences that are opportunities
footsteps. However, they always instilled in me the
for students, advisors, business professionals, graduate schools,
importance of seizing every opportunity for my
and companies to come together in one central location. This
academic and personal growth. When I realized that my growth
allowed them to exchange professional development advice,
was not being maximized, I took a leap of faith and transferred
attend workshops, and most importantly, provided them
from Florida Gulf Coast University to FAMU in my third year of
with opportunities to compete in oral and poster research
college. This spur-of-the-moment decision changed my life
competitions, speech and other professional competitions.
drastically; not only academically, but professionally and socially as well. During my first semester at FAMU, I was enrolled as a biology
Derrick Coble, Ph.D., assistant professor has also played a vital role in my growth, as a student. I had the privilege to accompany Dr. Coble to North Carolina A&T University, his alma
student with a concentration in professional science. One day
mater, where I participated in an animal confinement workshop,
while sitting in my chemistry class, I came across a young lady,
and collaborated with students from other schools to present a
who spoke about being a pre-vet student in the College of
PowerPoint presentation on the information we learned while
Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS). She introduced me to one
there. Before coming to FAMU, I had never had this type of
of her academic advisors, and from there I knew that CAFS was
opportunity to attend conferences and workshops.
where I belonged. One important thing that can be taken for granted, that I like
Being involved in organizations at the college level has encouraged me and expanded my love for volunteering and
about CAFS, is the one-on-one attention that students receive
getting involved in campus-wide and community activities. At
from faculty. Also, there are many opportunities for students to
the college level, I serve as the secretary of MANRRS, a CAFS AG
collaborate with professors, if we so wish. The faculty and staff
Ambassador, and as an active member of the Animal Science
care about the students’ academic progress and success.
Club. At the university level, I am Miss 1963 for the FAMU Chapter
Verian Thomas, Ph.D., professor and associate dean for Student
of Collegiate 100, an active member of Phi Sigma Theta National
Support and Tommeron Timmons, coordinator of Research
Honor Society, and the Golden Key International Honor Society.
Programs in CAFS are examples of a faculty and staff, respectively,
Also, I have served as a member of the National Council of Negro
who mentored and played a pivotal role in my growth as a
Women, the Entertainment Committee Chair for the Class of 2019
student. They both encouraged me to join the FAMU Chapter of
FAMU Campus Activities Board, and as a YMCA Reading Tutor and
Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences
Mentor at Ruediger Elementary School for 2018-2019.
(MANRRS). As stated on their website, MANRRS is a professional
After college, my short-term goal is to explore the
society with a mission to “promote academic and professional
opportunities available to me within my major, and acquire more
advancement by empowering minorities in agriculture, natural
hands-on animal experience. My long-term goal is to attend
resources, and related sciences.” It offers students the opportunity
veterinarian school with a concentration in aquatic animal health.
to enhance their leadership, organizational and public speaking
I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have received within
skills, and to experience professional critique of scholarly work in
the College of Agriculture and Food sciences, and I eagerly look
a “user friendly” environment.
forward to the opportunities yet to come. CAFS is indeed a place
Being involved with MANRRS has opened the door of
where future leaders are grown!
Keiondra is an honor student, and was the recipient of a CAFS Undergraduate Scholarship. This scholarship was established to recognize outstanding full-time students enrolled in a CAFS major. She is on track to graduate in spring 2020.
8
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
r Ke nd a Meet
MISS 1963 FOR THE FAMU CHAPTER OF COLLEGIATE 100
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
9
SMALL COLLEGE BUT COMMANDING IMPACT:
CAFS
10
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
WHERE FUTURE LEADERS ARE GROWN by Aaliyah W. Wilkerson
T
he College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) has been known to produce leaders in the industry. With less than 300 students enrolled in the college, the department has found itself at the forefront of campus news and their students take over campus leadership. From winning national Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) research competitions to winning campus elections as student body president, Mr. FAMU and class senators, CAFS and its faculty have invested into developing quality leaders of this generation. According to Robert Taylor, Ph.D., dean of CAFS, it is a fantastic time to be a part of
the CAFS family. “I have worked in other places, to be honest [with you], and I have never seen the kind of leadership from students that I’ve seen in our college here at FAMU. It shows that we are enhancing their talents and giving them the type of confidence that they need to go out and become a leader within the University,” exclaimed Dean Taylor. "CAFS is continuing to invest in its students so they can become, not just campus leaders but leaders worldwide."
But who are these All-Star Leaders? And
how exactly did they come into leadership? For many of them, their journey began in MANRRS. MANRRS is a national society for Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences. According to Verian Thomas, Ph.D., former national president of MANRRS and current associate dean of Recruitment, Student Support and Alumni Affairs, most campus leaders get their start
What happens is the professionals come back, and they create a real safe zone to prepare these students for job interviews and graduate school. They learn things like leadership skills - VERIAN THOMAS
in the FAMU Chapter of MANRRS.
“You find hundreds of minority students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs), but the majority of the students are diverse,” Dr. Thomas explained. The regional clusters hosted by the national organization are where students get an introduction to leadership development. “What happens is the professionals come back, and they create a real safe zone to prepare these students for job interviews and graduate school. They learn things like leadership skills,” Dr. Thomas continued, referring to the MANRRS student experience. A wise man once said, “leadership is not defined by a title, but in one’s ability to have influence and be impactful.” This saying can be echoed throughout the lives of CAFS’ student leaders Rochard Moricette, Crenel “CJ” Francis, Theresa Jean Louis, Kayla Braggs, DeAundr'e Newsome and Joshua Clements. Encompassing a spectrum of experience, these scholars found themselves on a journey of excellence and substantial influence. But managing their leadership positions and classes is no easy feat. CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
11
R
ecognized by the Tallahassee Urban League as a “Rising Star,” ROCHARD
Moricette explained. “CAFS provided a lot
position. In this capacity Moricette’s job
of support for me personally, the friends
will be to help create awareness of the
that I’ve been able to make within this
various opportunities available to FAMU’s
MORICETTE forged his way to student
college and the mentors and people that
students, in the Tallahassee business
leadership before arriving at FAMU. "I
believed in me and helped me to develop
community
followed campaigns while I was in high
my leadership skills through expectations,"
school, even though I didn't know what it
said Moricette.
was," Moricette explained. The now, student body president had
Dr. Thomas, a former professor of
His ability to lead and conquer, stems from the drive instilled in him by his family. Born in Port-de-Paix, Haiti, Moricette and
Moricette, recalls their initial encounter.
his family immigrated to the United States
one goal in mind upon his arrival to the
“One of the assignments that I gave to
for a better future. With the constant
“Hill.” “I wanted to get involved so that
them was ‘Tell Me About Yourself.’ I read
support from his loved ones, Moricette has
I could make a big impact on campus,
Rochard’s paper and after reading it,
found himself raising the bar even for his
and students could look to me to solve
I looked at him and I told him that he
younger siblings.
their issues and help fight for some of
needed to run for Senate. He then looked
the things that they are going through.
at me, and said ‘yeah you’re right,’ I had
far as pushing me to excel in ways that I
We all have a voice, but it's all about
heard the day before that there was an
didn't think I could. They have such high
directing and projecting that voice to the
opening on the senate and he ran. And he
standards for my siblings and me. We're
appropriate party at the right time and in
won.”
in college right now, and it's really just
the right manner," Moricette said. Moricette’s quest to make a change
According to Moricette, the support CAFS has offered him throughout his
“[My family] has been supportive as
been a blessing to have them in my life, honestly."
landed him a position as Freshman
campus leadership opportunities is how
Senator in 2016, Activities Service
he continues to develop as a student.
focuses on the politics of the University,
Fee Liaison in 2017 and Student Body
“[CAFS] provided me with the means
he has no plans on going into the political
President fall of 2019. While managing
to get that accomplished, not as SGA
arena. Instead, his passion for agribusiness
Student Government Association (SGA)
president, but as a student in college. You
continues to call him. “I feel like this is a
budgets, Moricette has had to find a way
have the resources to figure out what your
realm that I could dabble in and really
to manage his academics, which often
needs are and how to generate solutions
develop some leadership skills, which
came as a challenge. But with the support
for those needs,” enlightened Moricette.
would prepare me for corporate America
of the CAFS advisors and professors,
Moricette is also the student
Moricette always finds his way on top.
representative for the Tallahassee
“Our professors always remind us of
Chamber of Commerce. He is the
that and hold us to a different standard,”
Though Moricette’s campus career
while serving a greater cause, which is the student body,” Moricette concluded.
second student to be appointed to the
ROCHARD
12
MORICET F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
TTE
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
13
T
HERESA JEAN LOUIS has come
I was supposed to major in political
to work with different personalities —
to make a name for herself,
science, but when I realized the many
especially being a Senator. People may
not just in CAFS, but nationally in the
opportunities that were being offered
have different opinions on a bill, however,
agriculture industry. As the National
in agribusiness, it really sparked my
we must learn how to compromise. Being
MANRRS Parliamentarian and Junior
interest,” explained Jean Louis. “Majoring
in SGA has taught me to be more resilient
Student Senator, Jean Louis has come
in agribusiness was one of the best
and professional. Because at the end of
to redevelop the definition of a driven
decisions I could have made.
the day the job isn't about me, it's about
leader. Jean Louis’ student involvement
Fleeing from Haiti after the devastating
the students.”
doesn't stop there. She also holds a
earthquake in 2010, Jean Louis had to
position on the public relations team of
leave school in Port-au-Prince and live on
definition of FAMUly that has kept her
the FAMU Chapter of MANRRS, serves
her family’s farm, where she learned the
driven throughout her journey. “I am
as an AG ambassador and the director
core of agriculture. “My aunt use to wake
trying to find a word that truly explains
of Education for AG Ambassadors, and a
us up early in the morning and say, ‘Get
– but there is no one word that truly
former Marching 100 member. Jean Louis
up, we got to go feed the goat we have
explains how beneficial CAFS is to my
also serves on the collegiate ministry
to go do this.’ And I use to be like ‘Come
personal and professional life. They have
for Advantage Christian Fellowship as a
on, man’ but I would have never thought
poured into me and accepted me as
controller.
of studying that. I would have never
their own family.” When asked how she
thought of doing that professionally. And
manages all of her positions and classes,
look where I am,” Jean Louis recalled.
Jean Louis explains that overcoming fear
According to Timmons, Jean Louis “has a lot of zeal. She is a very ambitious and zealous young lady. Definitely a leader
While she holds many leadership
According to Jean Louis, CAFS is the
can be a beast to master. But students
in her own right. She is one of those
positions, the skillset she believes CAFS
should keep striving for greatness and
students who says she is following in
has offered her isn’t like any other. “Dr.
get involved in CAFS and the campus.
Rorchard’s footsteps.” Jean Louis found
Verian Thomas always pushed me to
her love for CAFS when the department
be my best self, professional, and dress
did a visit to her home town of Broward
and act accordingly. This is something
county.
that I had to use in my leadership roles.
“I just liked the way Ms. Taquasha
Honestly, everyone has poured into me
Freeman spoke about the number of
to help me to become the woman that I
opportunities that CAFS had when I
am today,” Jean Louis explained eagerly.
was a student in high school. Originally,
“Being in SGA has taught me how
THERESA
14
JEAN LOU F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
UIS
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
15
C
RENEL “CJ” FRANCIS is
take my place. With all that, it kind of just
the other hand, is a little shy. We worked
known for his passionate
fitted me, so I just kept on going,” Francis
on him – ‘pulling him up, pulling him
continued.
up, pulling him up,’ and then one day,
approach to leadership. Also named as the Tallahassee Urban League Rising
As Mister FAMU, president of MANRRS
he came in and said I am running for Mr.
Star, Francis is determined to continue
and past president of the Collegiate
FAMU and I was like ‘Oh.’ I gave him his
his family’s legacy by becoming an
100, Francis has developed a skillset
first donation,” Dr. Thomas smiled. “So,
agriculturalist while leaving an impact on
from CAFS that has challenged the
it really makes you feel good to see that
campus.
development of his leadership skills.
they have grown up and become more
According to Francis, he has learned
mature."
“Of all the colleges and schools on campus, CAFS stood out to me because
how to use the power of his influence
As an agribusiness student with a
it offered the right mix of courses, plus
to make a change. “CAFS has definitely
minor in public relations, Francis wants
the many opportunities for professional
contributed to my journey as a student
to focus on communications as it relates
development that I believe that I would
leader. I remember being in Dr. Verian
to agriculture and continue to pass the
not have gotten in any other college,”
Thomas’ first-class learning about time
torch his father gave to him. “My dad
said Francis. “The opportunities that have
management and scheduling,” Francis
has been practicing agriculture for 30
been afforded to me has helped me to
recalled. “And then I've always had the
plus years, so this is something that I've
excel academically and professionally.”
support of Tommeron Timmons, co-
seen throughout my lifetime. And now
advisor for MANRRS and advisor for the
I’m sitting here as a graduating senior,
Collegiate 100.”
also majoring in public relations, which
For Francis, leadership didn’t call him as soon as he arrived on the “Hill.” After observing and learning the ropes, Francis
Tommeron Timmons remembers
is very different,” Francis explained. “I am
felt that it was time to begin leadership.
Francis beginning as an introvert and
trying to put journalism and agriculture
“But when I first came as a freshman, I
is proud to see that he has developed
together. I don’t know if I am going to
never thought I would be where I am
into a passionate student leader and
go into politics or not, but I see myself
today by a long shot. I was just a student.
advocate. “Crenel gives you that passive
out there dealing with communications
I mean, I was literally just a student,”
caring leader who is sympathetic as well
as it pertains to agriculture,” Francis
recalled Francis. “I started realizing
as empathetic,” Timmons described. “He is
concluded.
campaigns and CAFS – and being the
definitely a leader in his own right.”
president of MANRRS, well first being
According to Dr. Thomas, Crenel has
the vice president and a member of the
had a drive since his first-class with her.
Collegiate 100, like I said I waited my turn
With support and coaching, Francis was
and knew when it was the right time to
able to come out of his shell. “Crenel, on
CRENEL "CJ"
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FRANCIS F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
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L
ovingly referred to as a
learned from CAFS. “CAFS gave me
my class schedule while still making
Georgia Peach, KAYLA
the first clubs and organizations that
time for my friends and taking care
BRAGGS is a second-year food
allowed me to have leadership roles,”
of myself.
science student with a concentration
Braggs explained.
in business and industry. Holding
According to Timmons, Braggs can
in you. They care about your well-
many leadership positions such as
conquer anything she puts her mind
being and want to encourage you
Sophomore Senator, vice chair of
to. “Kayla is the boss. Kayla is going
to be the best in your area. That is
the Student Relations Committee,
places. She is doing a lot, but she is
why programs like MANRRS are so
Miss College of Agriculture and Food
doing it well," Timmons said. “She is
important,” said Braggs. “Because of
Sciences, Orange and Green Guide,
definitely success and idea-driven.
how they have watched me develop
and a Girl Scout, to say the least
She’s going places and she is going to
in CAFS, my parents even see the
Braggs is the definition of a leader.
be doing some great things.”
future of agriculture and what it has
Initially, she considered majoring
Braggs stated that maintaining a
to offer. They have been supportive,
in pharmacy, but later decided that
presence in leadership has taught her
especially through guidance and
CAFS was the place for her.
a plethora of life lessons.
the opportunities that I have had
“I was looking for something that
“Leadership has taught
the pleasure of getting in the short
was stem-based, but still offered her
me accountability and time
time of me being on campus,” Braggs
an opportunity to be creative ¬—
management,” mentioned Braggs.
concluded.
food science was kind of the perfect
Though she is in a leadership role,
Braggs plans on progressing in
mix of both worlds. Science is still the
Braggs never forgets that she is a
her leadership skills and grades by
base, but you have the flexibility of
student first, and her ultimate goal is
monopolizing from the opportunities
different careers,” Braggs explained.
to graduate.
the CAFS has to offer.
With a long to-do-list, Braggs
“Even though I am in these
has managed to maintain it all.
leadership roles, maintaining my
According to Braggs, what keeps
GPA is important to me. I have had
her grounded is the lessons she has
to learn how to effectively manage
KAYLA
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“CAFS professors actually invest
BRAGGS F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
19
S
imilar to his peers, DeAUNDR’E NEWSOME came to FAMU with a plan to study agriculture. “My sixth-grade dean taught me everything I needed to know about FAMU. From the first time
I met him, he said to me, ‘Son, you are going to be a Rattler,’ and it just stuck with me ever since,” Newsome recalled.
After guidance from his high school mentor, Newsome decided to travel thousands of miles from
Nevada to one of the highest of seven hills. But according to Newsome, CAFS professors and staff have made Tallahassee feel like home. “I addition to our professors, with staff members like Ms. Taquasha Freeman and Ms. Shanteva Leonard, I have been able to be steered in the right direction. Some of the professors and staff are like my second mom, they are so supportive and always there when you need them to be,” mentioned Newsome. As a member of MANRRS, Sophomore Student Senator, Treasurer of the Collegiate 100 and president of the FAMU First-Year Experience Peer Mentor Program, Newsome has had his share of wins and losses. “When I first came on campus, and I ran for a position, and I didn't win, it really put things into perspective for me. I realized that sometimes your personality can get in the way of possibilities. So after that, I decided to commit to what I wanted to go after fully,” said Newsome. According to Timmons, watching DeAundr’e develop into the leader that he is today, has been a rewarding process. "Behind the scenes, he is a straight 100 percent leader. You may not hear him at all times, but when it comes down to work, it gets done,” Timmons exclaimed. With his array of experience, Newsome enjoys reminding his classmates of their ability to induce a change in the classrooms and the world. The biggest lesson he has learned is to Go for it! “You can’t live life in your shell and reluctant to do things. You don't want to look back on your life, wishing,” Newsome said. “As student leaders, we aren't just leading. We are learning as well. Don't be reluctant or scared. Just take the bull by the horns and ride it.” According to Newsome, this is only the beginning of his quest for greatness. He looks forward to more opportunities for him to lead and encourage his peers.
DeAUNDR'E
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NEWSOME F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
E
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
21
A
second-year agribusiness
how diverse the agriculture industry was,
leadership skills, but also his leadership
student from Atlanta,
he felt like the college's mission and goals
positions have taught him a lot about his
Georgia, manages and allocates funding
aligned with his. “My passion aligned with
experience in the classroom.
for campus organizations as the 2019 SGA
service and helping others. Becoming a
Activities and Services (A&S) Liaison while
part of CAFS felt more natural than going
more vocal in my classroom. I am always
maintaining a superior academic standing
with the typical business administration
trying to help out my peers and asking
with CAFS – that is JOSHUA CLEMENTS.
route,” Clements mentioned.
them their perspectives on new ideas.
“I’ve always seen myself in a leadership
Clements found that the power of
I have also gotten better at receiving
role. I have always seen myself advancing
professor mentorship with CAFS has made
feedback and being able to deliver it
more towards politics, so I figured the first
his experience even better than he could
as well,” Clements continues. His “get it
step would be, becoming a part of the
have predicted. According to Timmons,
done” attitude is echoed in his ability to
Student Government Association (SGA),
one of Clements’ mentors, Clements is
lead his peers. By continually encouraging
where we meet with officials on a day-to-
leaving a mark on CAFS and the student
his classmates to get involved, Clements
day basis, host Senate meetings and apply
body. “Joshua is a very impressive student.
typically leaves them with one message:
Roberts Rule of order. These are all real
He is a straight-A student with lots of
“The only way you are left by yourself is
practices. They are reflected in courtrooms
promise, with drive and ambition to see
if you never ask for help. You don’t know
and political realms today,” Clements said.
things through. Once you get to know
if you don’t try. Do something that you
Known to be a leader outside of the
him, you definitely see a leader in his own
genuinely have a purpose behind, have
classroom, Clements has dreams of
right and an impressive student,” Timmons
goals set in mind and go for it.,” Clements
becoming a corporate lawyer for a Fortune
explained.
concluded.
500 company. “After attending a couple of
“CAFS has definitely taught me the
Clements has plans on changing the
Senate meetings and after really deciding
value in professional development,
world with his debating skills and to
on what I wanted to do, that’s where I
networking and time management. A lot
become a corporate lawyer, and he feels
sought out leadership opportunities,” said
of these professors take their course work
like CAFS will give him the skills to be
Clements.
really seriously because they have been in
successful.
Shadowing and talking with Pepsi
the industry, and they want us to put our
representatives led Clements to make
best foot forward.” Clements claims that
CAFS his area of study. After evaluating
CAFS has had a significant impact on his
JOSHUA
22
“Being a student leader has made me
CLEMENT F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
TS
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
23
Mikela Pryor
My CAFS Experience
“Through my future work and research, I would like to make sure that engineering regulations at the local, state and national levels are based on sound, scientific research, especially when it comes to environmental regulation. Given the fact that climate change is accelerating, it is imperative that we work as diligently as possible to ensure that our planet is in a condition to service itself and the growing population that will be upon it in the decades and centuries to come. Nutrient pollution in storm water treatment is only a small portion of that work, but it leads to something bigger. If proper implementation of storm water treatment systems is applied at the local scale, it will have a great effect on its larger hydrologic system.� Mikela was the 2019 recipient of the Pharos of Alexandria Global Learning Award. This award recognizes a junior or senior undergraduate, or graduate student who has excelled and demonstrated leadership on the local, national and /or international levels as shown by their activities and offices held at each level. Mikela will be graduating fall 2019, after which she will be attending graduate school at Texas A&M University to further her studies in biological and agricultural engineering.
24
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
am MIKELA PRYOR, a fourth-
focused on the effect of septic facilities
Engagement Destination garden on
year Biological Systems
waste water on soil and water quality.
FAMU’s campus, and have participated
Engineering student in the
These research experiences have solidified
in community service events with the
College of Agriculture and
my dedication to advance the knowledge
FAMU Green Coalition and FAMU’s
Food Sciences at Florida
and understanding of the environmental
Chapter of the ASABE. During the 2018-
A&M University (FAMU). I
field.
2019 academic year, I was selected as a
was drawn to the field of
Like many of my peers in the college,
Student Fellow of the FAMU Sustainability
Biological and Agricultural
as part of our professional development,
Institute, where I worked on a project to
Engineering because of its take
I had several opportunities to attend and
implement reusable food containers in
on protecting water resources.
participate at professional conferences
the FAMU Food Court. I have also served
I have always been interested
and meetings such as the Association of
as president of the FAMU ASABE Chapter
in protecting the environment,
1890 Research Directors and the American
during the 2017-2018 academic year and
even as a child, but my passion
Society of Agricultural and Biological
the secretary of the FAMU Green Coalition
Engineers (ASABE).
in 2018-2019. I was also a USDA 1890
for it didn’t peak until I began researching about
I decided to complement my academic
Scholar.
the issue of the global water crisis in
background by gaining experience
my teenage years. I realized that I have
outside of the classroom, working for the
Sciences (CAFS) has helped to shape
always been so fortunate to have clean,
USDA–Natural Resources Conservation
me into the student, researcher and
accessible water, but with climate change
Service (NRCS) in Ohio during the summer
professional that I am and will continue
accelerating and an increasing population,
of 2018. My main duty was to assist civil
to be. I joined CAFS as a sophomore after
water resources are growing scarce. Again,
engineer technicians implement various
transferring into the Biological Systems
my interest in water resources led me to
conservation practices. I prepared soil
Engineering Department from pre-
study Biological Systems Engineering (BSE)
and contour maps, conducted watershed
pharmacy. I was looking for a field that I
at FAMU.
delineations and performed a variety
could help change the world and make it
Throughout my undergraduate studies,
The College of Agriculture and Food
of survey work where I developed
a better place. I found that in CAFS. From
I have excelled beyond what I thought I
topographic, cross section and profile
the moment I joined the department, the
was capable of, inside and outside of the
data. The work experience with the
BSE family welcomed me with open arms
classroom. As a research assistant, under
NRCS gave me hands-on experience in
and I quickly learned that agriculture and
the supervision of Aavudai Anandhi, Ph.D.,
conservation engineering practices used
natural resources was the avenue through
assistant professor in the BSE program,
in stream restoration, flooding and storm
which I would leave my mark on the world.
I developed a strong technical and
water management. I also developed
research background. Under her tutelage
Geographic Information System software
have decided to continue research at the
I participated in research and experiential
and other computer-aided designs and
graduate level. I would also like to express
projects, geared towards finding
software used for surveying and data
special thanks to Charles Magee, Ph.D.,
solutions to many of our agricultural and
analysis.
who helped me to see the many avenues
environmental problems. I have assisted
Academics and maintaining good
Due to Dr. Anandhi’s mentorship, I
in which I could use a degree in BSE;
with projects such as using models to
grades are important, but I also believe
determine cotton growth stages in Florida,
that one of the best and rewarding things
Ivanka Anguelova, ASABE student advisor, who helped me cultivate my leadership
bioremediation potential in the Savannah
any college student can be engaged
skills; Dev Satyanarayan, Ph.D., advisor
River Basin in South Carolina to analyzing
in, is volunteerism. The end result for
for my senior design, who helped hone
water quality in the Ochlocknee River
use of your time and talents does not
my problem-solving skills and let me see
Basin, in northwest Florida. My research
always have to come with a monetary
myself as an engineer; Nathaniel Bailey,
experience extended beyond the campus
reward, but should be about service for
Ph.D., BSE program director, who provided
of FAMU. During one of my summer
the greater good of the community. For
guidance on my journey each step of the
internships, I was an undergraduate
the past three years I have been involved
way; and Betty Hudson, administrative
researcher at the Texas A&M University
in several community projects and
assistant who helped me to navigate the
Biological and Agricultural Engineering
professional organizations. I volunteer
administrative processes throughout my
Department. I worked on research, which
at the Sustainability Education and
matriculation at FAMU. CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
25
by Cynthia Portalatin
RACHEL FERNANDEZ, a junior animal science major, says being a part of global agriculture at Florida A&M University (FAMU) has made her time in college extraordinary. “The college has provided me with many exceptional opportunities since my enrollment at FAMU. I have been able to travel abroad and domestically more than I ever imagined this past year, and I can only imagine the opportunities to come,” said Fernandez. Fernandez was recently awarded a $1,000 scholarship by the Florida Association for Food Protection (FAFP) for demonstrating a passion and an interest in food safety. She credits her international agriculture experience to the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) as a key part of her success in earning the award. “Rachel’s participation in the CAFS AGG 4952 Service Learning in International Agriculture course, with a service experience in the Dominican Republic, was key in her being invited to the FAFP’s Annual Educators Conference to present a paper and poster on her service experience. Rachel and the other global agriculture minor students in the course, assisted our food safety content specialists in carrying out one of the first Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) assessments in the Dominican Republic during summer 2018,” said Harriett Paul, director of FAMU CAFS Center for International Agricultural Trade Development Research and Training, and the Service Learning course instructor. “I was so appreciative to have the opportunity to present to the association on the study that I supported in the Dominican Republic, which happens to be the home country of my family,” says Fernandez. Her presentation, “Building Food Safety Modernization Act Capacity in Dominican Packinghouses,” detailed the FSMA assessment conducted by the CIATDRT during the summer of 2018 in collaboration with the Universidad ISA and the International Executive Service Corps. The assessment helped to determine the readiness of nine pack houses selected to participate in the study for FSMA compliance, as may be required by their U.S. importers. Fernandez took on a leadership role by serving as a Spanish translator during the on-site technical team interviews with pack house management. Last summer, she also completed a “Train the Trainer” course on produce safety provided by the University of Florida’s Southern Regional Center’s FSMA training program. “Being able to travel to different countries and U.S. cities and states this past year, has opened my eyes to the possibilities for me as a professional. I have come to learn that as an animal scientist, I am preparing myself for a career on the global stage. The value that my minor in global agriculture adds through the international exposures, is that I can clearly see that I am building my capacity to work globally, to include having a career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a foreign service officer,” said Fernandez.
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F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
27
by Karena Mahung, Consultant, Indufor North America Photos courtesy of the Land Trust Alliance
P
APA GUEYE, a senior agribusiness major, is one
conference provided them with an opportunity to participate
of 10 students selected for the newly launched,
in several educational trainings and workshops where they
Scholars for Conservation Leadership Program. The 2019 pilot program, which is a joint initiative
between the Land Trust Alliance and the USDA Forest
“One practical skill that I have come away with from this opportunity is a greater level of confidence and comfortability
Service, selected its initial cohort of undergraduates from Central
to network. I was timid at first, but the professionals at the
State University, Colorado State University, Florida A&M University
conference encouraged me to express myself.”
(FAMU), North Carolina State University, Tuskegee University and University of Massachusetts. “The Alliance is incredibly proud of this work of building
The program is a career and leadership development program. Its goal is to expand opportunities for students from underrepresented minority groups in the land conservation
platforms for young, bright students interested in conservation
fields and to strengthen career opportunities in natural resource
and natural resource management to connect with practitioners
management and conservation.
and opportunities for career development. We hope to expand
“The educational training workshops with teams of
this program in future years,” shared Wendy Jackson, executive
professional panelists provided great insight on the next steps
vice president, Land Trust Alliance.
going forward in our chosen fields and the wide range of career
The program provided an opportunity for the students to attend the National Land Conservation Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina. In addition, they attended a one-day professional development experience where they heard from leaders in the areas of conservation and natural resource management, which helped to bolster and support their career development. The
28
connected with professionals from across the nation.
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
paths that one might take,” said Gueye. Papa, is also an undergraduate research assistant at the FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research.
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
29
A Caring Journey Through CAFS A College that Believes in its Students A dream to be a successful plant
in CAFS, including my research activities
scientist led me to Florida A&M University
be one of the best plant scientist there
at the Center for Viticulture, I can truly say
(FAMU) College of Agriculture and
is. This meant that I had to be involved
there were a lot of opportunities provided
Food Sciences (CAFS). I am PATRICIA
in research. Although I was skeptical
that I took advantage of that helped to
AKINGBOYE from Ondo State, Nigeria.
and nervous about doing research, my
prepare me to successfully complete
I was privileged to be among the few
confidence grew and my dream fueled
both programs. I had opportunities to
students selected under a Memorandum
further after meeting with Violeta Tsolova,
attend and present my research findings
of Understanding (MoU) between FAMU
Ph.D., professor and director for the Center
at professional meetings and conferences
and the Federal University of Technology,
of Viticulture and Small Fruit Research and
that aided my public speaking skills and
Akure, (FUTA) Ondo State in Nigeria.
Anthony, Ananga, Ph.D., assistant professor
confidence. I had the opportunity to meet
Under the MoU students complete the
and junior researcher at the center.
scientists and professionals in my area of
first-three years of undergraduate studies
I joined the team at the center during
interest, volunteer and give back to the
at a university in their country and the final
the summer of my final year as an
school and community, and a chance
year at FAMU, then onto graduate school.
undergraduate researcher. I was a novice
to interact and establish long-lasting
and thought I would not be a great
friendships.
When I got the news that I was selected to attend the College of Agriculture and
researcher, which were the thoughts that
Food Sciences at FAMU, I was excited
went through my mind. However, Dr.
as it will be in life, but I was fortunate to
and overwhelmed with joy. The idea of
Ananga saw my potential and motivated
have an entire college of faculty and staff
what I considered a once in a life time
me to not give up on my dreams. He
that really cared about their students’
opportunity to study plant science and
would often talk to me about the many
progress, success and wellbeing.
biotechnology given all the new and
benefits of doing research, the exposure
improved technology that were not at my
and opportunities, but most importantly
Ananga, I wish to express special thanks
disposal in my country, was truly amazing.
that to be the successful plant scientist
to Oghenekome Onokpise, Ph.D., one of
From my first day of classes, I realized
The road was rocky and rough at times,
In addition to Drs. Tsolova and
meant doing research. This bolstered my
the pioneers of the FUTA-FAMU scholar
that I had a lot to learn and a lot to catch
confidence to a whole new level. As an
program; Alfredo Lorenzo, Ph.D.; Edwin
up on in just one year. Something as
undergraduate researcher, I got to work on
Duke, Ph.D.; James Muchovej, Ph.D.;
simple as becoming proficient with the
the regulation of gene expression involved
and Verian Thomas, Ph.D. They simply
computer to familiarizing myself with the
in flavonol and anthocyanin biosynthesis
understood where I was coming from.
proper use of basic laboratory equipment.
during the flowering and blooming stages
They took their time to help, support and
One would believe that after completing
of Muscadine grapes.
encourage me in order for me to succeed
three years of undergraduate coursework,
At the master’s level I had the
in the program. I am forever indebted to
that I would have known how to fully
opportunity to work under the guidance
master the use of a pipette, well I did
and caring mentorship of Dr. Tsolova,
not until I came to FAMU. Thanks to the
where for the next two years I studied
everything that has been instilled in me
patient and caring professors in CAFS who
genotypic variation in vinification
including my hands-on experiences in
understood where I was coming from and
qualities and the antioxidant properties of
CAFS has prepared me to rise over difficult
saw that I was eager to learn, took their
muscadine wines in Florida.
times.
time to help, support and encourage me.
30
As I have stated before, my dream is to
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
Looking back at my academic journey
them. Overall, I am super confident that
Patricia is one of the best examples for the exceptional quality of our students with an infectious smile, remarkable work ethics and perseverance for academic excellence and career development.
- V I O L E TA T S O LO VA , P H . D.
5 Graduate student Patricia Akingboye, performing sterile prep of grape cell cultures for antioxidant analysis.
Patricia maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her studies at FAMU. She graduated with her master’s degree in summer 2019 and has been accepted in the bioenvironmental science doctoral program at Morgan State University. She was a member of the Agricultural Science Club, the Baptist Collegiate Ministry and a member of the Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society. CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
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F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
The Impact from His Miles
45 Years of Service to FAMU! by Andrine Stanhope
If asked to prologue Lawrence Carter’s autobiography with a
recent two successors Ray Mobley, DVM and Vonda Richardson
song, poem, or a statement from great writers like Shakespeare, I
the current director for CEP, who were both employed by him.
would have to choose the song, “My Way” by Frank Sinatra.
Several of his other protégés have gone on to be leaders at other
Having obtained a doctor of philosophy in higher education from Florida State University, Carter knew he could become a
academic institutions, government agencies and industries. “Although I am an extension administrator, I lend my support
professor at an institution of higher education. Becoming an
in all areas of the college voluntarily or when called upon,” said
administrator in the field of agriculture however, was not in the
Carter. “I served on five doctoral and10 master’s committees,
stars. “Never thought of landing a career in agriculture extension,”
and was a mentor to numerous students and colleagues in the
Carter said. However, my early participation in 4-H clubs and
college.”
other agricultural programs in high school, unconsciously at the time, helped to prepare me for a career in agriculture.”
His service on college, university and statewide committees extended to more than 60. He also served on the Southern
Carter’s 45 years of career at Florida A&M University (FAMU),
Regional Rural Development Center Board of Directors where he
saw his human odometer racked up more miles than any vehicle
represented 1890 extension directors for 12 years; and served a
possibly can. “If I were to trace my career miles on land and in the
two-year term as the chairman of the Association of Extension
air for the past 45 years, it would be more than three million by air
Administrators, and 21 years as its treasurer.
and more than four million on land,” said Carter. My travels have
In 1993, he and his team established the first meat goat
taken me to Canada, several countries on the continents of Africa
program in Florida, and hosted two of the four National Goat
and Asia, and several islands in the Caribbean.
and Small Ruminant conferences in 1991 and 2008. Under
He began his career as a program specialist and after six years, rose to the rank of associate dean and administrator of the Cooperative Extension Program (CEP) at FAMU. Under his
his guidance they also hosted the first National Small Farms Conference in 1981. Throughout his tenure, Carter was passionate and responsive
leadership the CEP brought in excess of $28 million through
about helping to better the 1890 system. “One of my most
federally mandated and completive funding, which immensely
notable services was on the 1995 Farm Bill Committee that saw
helped to transform and improve the quality of life, especially for
an increase in funding to support 1890 land-grant research,
limited resources and disenfranchised citizens throughout the
teaching and extension programs,” said Carter.
state and especially north and west Florida. Carter helped to build job security on and off FAMU’s campus.
“His collaboration, persistent interaction and established beneficial contacts with the state and national USDA resulted in
On campus, he employed an integrated team of more than
increased funding to the University,” said Sunil Pancholy, Ph.D.,
100 professionals including extension agents, program leaders,
retired associate dean for Research in the College of Agriculture
specialists, faculty and staff, who assisted and conducted practical
and Food Sciences.
programs, designed to solve real life problems, which helped to economically transform lives and improve communities. He has helped to create tomorrow’s leaders as is evident by his
“Lawrence was always inspiring, however, he was stern whenever the conversation was about the challenges the 1890 institutions withstood during the early stages,” said Delbert
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
33
Foster, executive director of the 1890
purchase of the 267-acre farm that is now
Programs and, dean and 1890 extension
the FAMU Research and Extension Center”
administrator at South Carolina State
said Pancholy. “He was able to establish
recognition for his outstanding service
University. “His personal reflections as a
the center’s buildings, the Veterinary
and contribution to include: Certificate
young extension professional were always
Technology Program and several other
of Meritorious Service by Epsilon Sigma
motivational to me, and every time he and
small animal research and extension
Phi State Distinguished Service Award,
I spoke about the way it was, I became
programs facilities.”
State Mid-Career Award, Enshrinement
more and more determined to perfect my
Carter received numerous awards and
in the Florida A&M University College of
craft as an extension professional,” Foster
Quincy includes an equine facility, which
Agriculture Gallery of Distinction, recipient
said.
is utilized for student teaching and horse
of the FAMU Millennium Award, recipient
management, a youth pavilion including
of Excellence in Entrepreneurship, AEA/
voice for equity and fairness within the
an outdoor classroom and nature trail;
ARD Exemplary Leadership Award,
Land-Grant System, and persistence in
a veterinary technology complex; an
AEA Distinguished Service Award, and
being a strong and powerful voice for the
aquaculture program and an agroforestry
AEA Pioneer Award. Due to exemplary
underserved communities we endeavor to
system. The complex is home to the
service, he was recognized with three
serve, is a testament to the commitment
annual summer “Farm Fest,” which drew
proclamations for outstanding service
he showed to the 1890 system.
people from all over the state and the
from the Leadership of Tallahassee, the
neighboring state of Georgia.
U.S. House of Representatives and the
His hunger for excellence, resilient
His vision about serving the needs of limited resource families, empowering
34
The research and extension complex in
Agronomy, Oghenekome Onokpise, Ph.D.
Things were not always smooth
Association of Extension Administrators
his workforce and ensuring FAMU had a
and rosy, but Carter knew how to deal
at his retirement celebration on June 29,
major impact in the state, led to major
with situations professionally and with
2019.
infrastructure development on campus
decorum. “At times we disagreed on a
and in communities. He executed the
number of issues, but over the years
construction of two major teleconference
I knew without a doubt that I could
centers, one on the main campus of FAMU
count on Lawrence’s support, and that
and the other a research and extension
is why I believed he had a great and
facility at their Quincy, Florida location.
very successful career, locally, regionally
“Lawrence was instrumental in the
and nationally,” said retired professor of
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
FAMU Among Three Universities Selected for Student Opportunity
Cooling Vest Patent Awarded to CAFS Professor
by Andrine Stanhope
designed to benefit those individuals who recreate and
by Justus Reed and Byron Dobson With seven approved patents and five pending, Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS) professor, Charles Magee is no newcomer to creating products to better society. His latest invention a “Solar Adiabatic Cooling Apparatus,” is work in high temperatures. The patent for the device that Magee refers to as a
Florida A&M University is among three
solar evaporative cooling vest was awarded earlier this
universities selected by Agriculture Future
year. It is the first patent award received in the Biological
of America (AFA) for its University Growth
Systems Engineering Program in the college.
Initiative. The other two universities were
After envisioning a device that could relieve heat-induced discomfort in various
Fort Valley State University and Prairie View
environments, Magee approached FAMU’s Office of Technology Transfer more than
A&M University. The Initiative will fund three
three years ago and got the go-ahead to move forward. “I envisioned users such as
students and a faculty member from each
soldiers, football teams, fans at outdoor sporting events, hikers, forest firefighters,
university to attend the 2019 AFA Leaders
landscapers and fieldworkers would benefit from my product; because it will allow
Conference, which will be held in Kansas City,
them to stay cool and more comfortable while they work in the sun,” said Magee.
Missouri in November. As part of the application process each
A critical factor in Magee’s motivation to invent a personal cooling system is the recorded instances of football players collapsing and even dying as a result of
university identified ways their students would
overheating and heat strokes. He felt that his product could put an end to such
benefit from the opportunity.
happenings.
“AFA will help provide our students
“There is an abundance of high school, college and professional football teams
with much needed soft skills that include
that could take advantage of this cooling system to prevent heat exhaustion during
leadership and communication skills to better
games and practices. There have been cases where players have collapsed due to
prepare them for the workforce and graduate
heat exhaustion, and some have lost their lives due to heat strokes, which is one of
professional schools,” said Verian Thomas,
my reasons for developing this creation. This invention could be a lifesaver.”
Ph.D., professor and associate dean in the
Magee explained that evaporative cooling systems have been used in
College of Agriculture and Food Sciences. In
greenhouses for more than 60 years with the goal of lowering air temperature.
addition, the internship opportunities that we
However, he said these systems only work well in hot dry climates. “In general terms,
hope our students will secure through AFA will
what makes this unique is that this solar evaporative cooling vest can operate in
give them a more competitive edge. AFA has
high humidity or low humidity and it’s also portable,” Magee said, adding with a
been providing scholarships and leadership
chuckle. “I call it the poor man’s portable air conditioning system."
training to college students pursuing careers in agriculture since 1996. As described on its website, the AFA Leaders Conference is a four-track program designed to offer college students four different personal
“It’s always a good feeling when you get awarded a U.S. patent, especially when it’s a result of your intellectual knowledge,” said Magee. Magee currently is working on developing a prototype to test the functionality of his invention. The next step for FAMU is to partner with a company that can produce actual
and professional development opportunities
prototypes, so that the cooling vest can be tested to see how well it works, and what
matched to their year in college. The program
needs to be modified.
bridges the gap between academic, leadership
Magee received his bachelor’s degree in general agriculture from Alcorn State
and work experiences while helping students
University and was the first African American to have received a Doctorate in
understand the impact of their decisions.
Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Cornell University. CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
35
by Andrine Stanhope
GHENEKOME ONOKPISE, PH.D., affectionately known as “Kome,”
rain forest ecosystems to name a few. From these researches he has authored and co-authored a combination of 150
began his career at Florida A&M
publications in the form of refereed, workshops, conference
University on June 23, 1986. He
and symposium scientific papers. He received U.S. Patent
started as an assistant professor in
No. 8,278,248 for his research on cogongrass, a culmination
the Center for Viticulture Science
of 15 years of research on an invasive species in Florida and
and Small now called the Center
Gulf Coast States. He received the Distinguished Researcher
for Viticulture and Small Fruit
Award from FAMU in 2013 and numerous other awards at the
Research. Kome’s 33 years of service in the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences spans the full gamut of our 1890 mandate to include teaching, research and extension, in addition to administrative and international program activities. His tenure saw
professional level to include the Stephen Spurr Award from the Florida Division of the Society of American Foresters. Kome’s extension and outreach activities focused mainly in North Florida, South Georgia and Southeast Alabama. In this regards, he worked with small vineyard owners and hobby growers teaching them how to cultivate and improve
the current CAFS undergo two name changes, from College of
their grape production. He also conducted training programs
Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) to
in agroforestry systems especially silvopasture systems
College of Agriculture Sciences to its current name.
with small ruminants and forage legumes. He developed
His administrative appointments included associate dean
the Forestry and Conservation Education (FACE) summer
for which he served under several deans and interim deans
program for middle and high school students, which is now
from 2008 - 2012 and interim associate dean in 2013. He led
in its 21st year, and has been a recruitment pipeline for the
the efforts in CESTA during the university-wide accreditation
college. Kome was also actively involved in international
exercise in 2010 and university restructuring in 2011, hence
agricultural, capacity building, and farmer-to-farmer programs
the names CESTA, CAS and CAFS. Kome served as the
in Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Germany, Austria and
coordinator for graduate programs in CESTA from 2004 - 2008,
Haiti.
and coordinator for the agronomy program from 1990 - 2008
He is a member of several professional organizations such
and natural resources conservation program, which was
as the Society of American Foresters; American Association
implemented in 1992.
for the Advancement of Science; American Association for
Over the length of his career Kome taught more than 20
Industrial Crops; and Society of Economic Botany. He served
different courses at both the undergraduate and graduate
as the vice chairman of the 1890 Agroforestry Consortium
levels. He served as chair for 25 master’s and five doctoral
from its inception in 2005 until 2015. He is also a member of
graduates, and served on more than 50 master’s and doctoral
the Tallahassee Writers Association and member of several
thesis and dissertation committees. Kome received the Best
other social and civic organizations.
Agricultural Instructor Award from the student Agricultural Science Club in 1998; the University Teacher of the Year Award
“Dr. Kome lived up to FAMU’s motto ‘Excellence With
in 1993 and 2006; the Teacher Incentive Program Award in
Caring.’ He delivered his lectures with clarity and ease
1994 and the Advance Teacher of the Year Award in 1996.
of understanding, which inspired me to learn and made
Kome has generated nearly $10 million in extramural
a difference in the way I approached my academic work.
funds from public and private agencies for research teaching,
He made learning enjoyable, which motivated me as an
extension and international program activities.
undergraduate at the time to enroll in one of his graduate
His research activities spanned many areas including plant
overall well-being. Best wishes on the next phase of your
on silvopasture and small ruminants; biofuel research; and
life.” – Andrine Stanhope, Ph.D.
ecological restoration of mahogany tree species in tropical
36
courses. He really had a passion for his students and their
breeding and genetics; agroforestry systems with emphasis
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
KOME'S
33
YEARS OF SERVICE! DOWN THROUGH THE YEARS
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
37
5 ISA-IESC-FAMU teams meet to kick off partnership activities in Santiago ISA campus.
by Cynthia Portalatin
T
he Florida A&M University (FAMU)
center’s initiatives that have changed
handling of fruits and vegetables, food
Center for International Agricultural
lives for the better in many underserved
safety, and integrated pest management.
Trade Development Research and
regions of the world,” Harriett Paul, director
The program expanded the knowledge
Training (CIADRT) is dedicated to
CIADRT said. “We take a multifaceted –
and skills of more than 3,000 Dominican
stimulating economic growth in
value chain approach to promoting rural
Republic producers, pack house staff,
emerging and developing world
development in the countries where
agricultural service delivery personnel
markets. Since its establishment
we work. We work with input suppliers,
and University faculty. This was done to
in 2001, the CIADRT has aggressively
producers, processors, wholesalers and
meet international market food safety
pursued its mission, to provide training,
exporters to ensure that safer, more
and quality standards related to the
research, and development assistance to
improved quality agricultural products
production, post-harvest handling, and
international agricultural organizations in
are available for the local host country
processing of five horticultural products
the areas of sustainable agriculture, small
markets; as well as foreign markets in the
being exported to the U.S., E.U. and
enterprise development, international
U.S., E.U. and Canada,” Paul said.
Canada (Asian vegetables, pineapple,
trade enhancement, organizational
avocado, greenhouse vegetables and
portfolio is a recently completed four-
Many people in the world’s poorest areas
year program, which was undertaken in
derive their livelihoods from agricultural
the Dominican Republic (2016 - 2019).
development program and our Dominican
related activities. The transformation of
The project titled, “Exporting Quality
Republic clients achieved many positive
agriculture and food systems is therefore
and Safety Program,” was funded by
outcomes as a result of the work
an essential aspect of broad-based
the U.S. Department of Agriculture and
completed by FAMU and our partner IESC,”
economic growth.
in partnership with the International
Paul said.
“More than $6 million in competitive funding from a variety of national and international donors have fueled the
38
One such project in the CIATDRT
capacity building, and entrepreneurship.
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
Executive Services Corps (IESC). The CIATDRT provided technical interventions in the areas of post-harvest
cocoa). “This was a highly complex
Some of the more notable outcomes reported, based on FAMU’s contribution, included the reduction in pest loads and
5 Pack house employees at work on the sorting, grading, and packing line.
6 Halimah Wynn, agronomy major junior and global agriculture minor collecting water sample.
5 Elva Estevez, Ph.D., FAMU Plant Pathologist giving hands on scouting demonstrations to pineapple farmers.
For more information about the CIATDRT programs, contact Harriett A. Paul, director at harriett.paul@ illegal pesticide residues on exported
Foreign Supplier
famu.edu or (850) 599-8867. You may also stop by the
fresh produce, based on the use of
Verification
office at FAMU, 204 South Perry-Paige Building.
integrated pest management methods;
Program (FSVP)
the introduction and adoption of
requirements.
sustainable and environmentally safe
An interdisciplinary team of food safety
FAMU successfully completed its
fruit and vegetable production practices
experts, a videographer and five CAFS
contract with IESC-USDA in July, with
(Good Agricultural Practices) among client
global agriculture minor students were
all project goals and deliverables
producers; the enhanced competitiveness
recruited and organized to carry out the
accomplished. “As a result of the combined
of Dominican Republic pineapple and
assessment. The students were enrolled
efforts of both the interdisciplinary
oriental vegetables in the world market
in the CAFS AGG 4952 Service Learning in
and inter-institutional alliances, the
as a result of the adoption of improved
International Agriculture course, taught by
development efforts from the project
practices; and increased net income for
Paul. The team successfully carried out the
achieved a very broad impact that not
producers and rural communities due to a
14-day study, in cooperation with the IESC,
only resulted in positive outcomes for
reduction in the shipment refusal rate.
and the Institute Superior in Agriculture
our Dominican Republic clients, but also
(ISA) a private agricultural university
supported FAMU students’ international
project included an assessment of nine
based in Santiago. The outcome of the
service learning and our faculty’s
packing houses in La Vega Province to
assessment indicated that the pack houses
professional development. These internal
determine the pack houses’ produce
are knowledgeable of the requirements of
and external benefits are what we strive
safety practices and their readiness
the FSVP, however, none are appropriately
to achieve with all of our international
for compliance with the new U.S.
prepared for compliance of the foreign
agriculture programs,” Paul said.
Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA)
human food suppliers.
Other notable achievements of the
The interdisciplinary team consisted of faculty, staff and students from FAMU to include: Lambert Kanga, Ph.D., Neil James, Ph.D., Ernest Jones, Cynthia Portalatin, Penny Malone, Joseph Jones, Rachel Fernandez, Jorge Del’Angel, Johnesha Jackson, Halimah Wynn and Gregory McNealy; Consultants from the University of Puerto Rico, Fernando Gallardo-Covas, Ph.D., and Elva Estevez, Ph.D.; Private Consultants, John Warren, Ph.D., and Kamal Hyder, Ph.D.; Lead ISA partner, Anabel Then; and the Pack House Assessment Team Laurel Dunn, Ph.D., Lynette E. Orellana, Ph.D., and Quintin Gray. CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
39
BAYER AWARDS $20,000 TO FAMU CAFS STUDENTS by Veronique George
The College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) students
me for what I can do in the future, they are willing to give me the
Kayla Braggs (Atlanta, Ga.), Gueye Papa (Tallahassee, Fla.), Meghan
resources needed to reach that full potential,” said Braggs. “More
Campbell (Orlando, Fla.), Raymond Hernandez (Palm Beach, Fla.),
and more we are beginning to see large-scale companies pushing
and Amonra Garrett-Mills (Denver, Colo.) were recipients of the
hard to invest in the potential and growth of young adults as they
Bayer Fund for the 1890s Scholarships. The students who are
will be the next generation of employees to take their brand to
members of the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and
the next level—Bayer being one of the front runners. It is one
Related Sciences (MANRRS) were awarded a total of $20,000.
thing to speak of aiding growth, but cutting-edge companies like
Bayer is a life science company with more than 150 years of history with core competencies in the areas of healthcare and
The Bayer Fund 1890s Student Scholarship is part of the
agriculture. Their innovative products contribute to finding
company’s broader focus in their commitment to recognizing
solutions to some of the major challenges of our time, such as
high achieving underrepresented students pursuing degrees
adequate food supply and improved medical care for a growing
in agriculture and Science Technology Engineering and
and aging population.
Mathematics (STEM) related fields. The key to meeting the
“I am extremely grateful and honored to be a recipient of the
challenges the world faces in feeding nine billion people by 2050,
1890 Bayer Scholarship Fund,” said Hernandez. “Having my books
is investing in future leaders pursuing STEM careers in food and
and classroom materials covered during my junior year is a major
agriculture. The next generation of innovators will be the ones to
relief. The amount of stress that accumulates from finances can be
ascend and meet the challenges of global food security.
stressful for me and my family, and having the support of CAFS
According to their website Bayer’s mission is to improve quality
investing and rooting for my success is extremely rewarding.
of life for a growing population by focusing their research and
Knowing that people are there for me is very comforting.”
development activities on preventing, alleviating and treating
“Being awarded the scholarship is more than just a financial gain, it shows me that not only does Bayer see the potential in
40
Bayer are speaking louder with action.”
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
diseases and providing a reliable supply of high-quality food, feed and plant-based raw materials.
EXTENSION NEWS by Vonda Richardson
Florida A&M University (FAMU) COOPERATIVE EXTENSION PROGRAM was among seven project and program teams that were awarded $5,000 grants. The grants will assist with their program development and implementation at the Impact Collaborative Summit, which was held in Atlanta, Georgia. Twenty-eight project and program teams across the Cooperative Extension System represented 36 institutions. 5 Florida A&M University Extension Agents Sabrina Hayes (L), and Conchita Newman (r), pitching their STEM mobile module to a participant at the Summit.
Dreamal Worthen, Ph.D., Sandra Thompson, Ed.D., and Kenya Washington-Johnson (Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice) were grant awardees for the southern region. The project titled “Community Voices, Informed Choices” or CIVIC, in collaboration with the University of Florida, fosters civil and inclusive dialogue to cultivate a climate of sustained community conversation around complex and pressing local issues. These technical resources and professional development trainings enabled cooperative extension agents to effectively serve as conveners, moderators and coordinators. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences team included
5 Florida A&M University Cooperative Extension faculty Dreamal Worthen, Ph.D. (l) and Sandra Thompson Ed.D. (r), discussing their “Community Voices Informed Choices” theme with their University of Florida partners.
Martha Monroe, Lara Milligan and Carol Alberts. Jennifer Taylor, Ph.D., and Kimberly Davis also received a $5,000 grant award for the top scorer in the national project category at the summit. They were a part of the National Sustainable Summit team, which represented the University of Florida, Washington State University, North Dakota State University and Florida A&M University. Each team had the opportunity to pitch their project and program to a panel of cooperative extension leaders and external partners. The National Sustainability Summit brings leading sustainability and energy educators, and practitioners together to showcase land-grant university extension and research
5 Representatives from Florida A&M University Cooperative Extension and collaborating partner University of Florida discussing their “Community Voices Informed Choices” project at the summit.
program successes, share challenges, and identify opportunities to strengthen their collective impacts. It also provided conference hosts with opportunities to build a strong, supportive local community of extension supporters and partners. Other members of the team included Jennison Kipp Searcy, Ramona Madhosingh Hector, Linda Seals, Patricia Townsend and David Ripplinger.
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
41
FAMU-CAFS MANRRS STUDENTS BROUGHT HOME TOP AWARDS by Andrine Stanhope & Heather Johnson
5 FAMU MANRRS Chapter participants in attendance at the 34th Annual Career Fair and Training Conference.
The Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) Chapter of Minorities in Agriculture Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) brought home top awards for case study presentations and impromptu speaking contests, from the 34th Annual Career Fair and Training Conference in April and the Regional Cluster held in September. More than 1,200 participants and 80 companies participated in the conference, which included workshops, competitions and a career fair. Kayla Braggs, a food science freshman won first place in the undergraduate public speaking contest and was also one of the freshmen recipients of the John Deere Scholarship. First place winners for the Land O’Lakes Case Study went to the team consisting of Jacob Long and Xavier Miranda-Colon, agribusiness juniors; Zaida Kidane, animal science senior; and Shieriney Murphy, food science senior. Kierra Goosby, a plant science graduate student, was awarded second place in the National Research Discussion Contest, and Jacob Long and Xavier Miranda-Colon were awarded second place in the Annual Bunge Case Competition. The duo, competed against teams of undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Kentucky, Iowa State University, Oklahoma State University, Purdue University, Cal Poly State University, Illinois State University, Louisiana State University, Alcorn State University, Kentucky State University and Ohio State University. Third place award for the Lincoln Douglas Debate went to Zaida Kidane. Sixteen students from the college were able to attend the Regional Cluster Conference courtesy of Land O’Lakes (LOL) full funding. •
Keiondra Marshall, animal science pre-vet senior, winner of the LOL Case Study
•
E'Lan Miles, agronomy junior, winner of the LOL Sprint Case Study
•
Juancarlos Simmonds, freshman, 1st Place Impromptu Speaking Contest, and winner of the LOL Case Study
•
Hanna Triplett, pre-engineering freshman, winner of the Dinner Contest
•
Micala Jones, biological systems engineering freshman awarded 3rd place in the Impromptu Speaking Contest
CAFS students have been performing exceptionally well over the past few years. “In addition to support from the college’s administration, I believe that the advisors and faculty who challenge students to operate outside of their comfort zone are contributing factors to their success,” said Tommeron Timmons, co-advisor of the FAMU Chapter. He went on to state that “the mission of MANRRS is unique and serves a vital role in helping to provide professional development to students, which helps to foster and enhance the leadership, organizational and public speaking skills – needed for future careers.” As described on its website, MANRRS serves its members by “encouraging diversity and pluralism, and promoting the development of leadership skills that will prepare members for a thriving future in the agricultural, natural resources and related sciences.”
42
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
PROVIDING
HELP IN A TIME OF NEED
by Heather Johnson
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's (FAMU) College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) has been a
provide aid to Bahamians affected by the
in Agriculture, Natural Resources
storm.
and Related Sciences (MANRRS), the
"I was shocked to learn of the utter
Veterinary Technology Club and the AG
favored choice for higher education for
devastation that Hurricane Dorian
Ambassadors also helped to acquire the
many Bahamians. Therefore, after seeing
brought to some of the Bahama islands,
supplies.
the devastation of Hurricane Dorian,
and I believed that our college had
The items were transported to Miami
CAFS knew their help would be needed.
no choice but to try to respond in a
for shipment to Freeport, Grand Bahamas,
meaningful way," Thomas said.
to meet FAMU College of Agriculture and
Hurricane Dorian slammed into the northwestern part of the Bahamas as a
Almost 700 pounds of food, toiletries,
Food Sciences alumni Tamico Nelson
Category 5 hurricane with wind gusts of
clothing and other essential items
and Roscoe Kemp who will distribute the
up to 220 miles per hour, making it the
were donated by students, faculty,
items to those in need.
strongest hurricane on record to affect
staff and friends. Student clubs and
The College of Agriculture and Food
the Bahamas.
organizations such as the American
Sciences Dean Robert Taylor, Ph.D., who
Society of Agricultural and Biological
grew up and worked in the Bahamas, and
Ph.D., initiated the Hurricane Dorian
Engineers (ASABE), the Animal Science
his wife donated the funds to ship the
relief fund and coordinated the effort to
Club, the Food Science Club, Minorities
items to the Bahamas.
Brittney Clark and Verian Thomas,
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
43
FAMU TO GET CITIZEN SCIENCE WATERSHED LAB by Latasha Tanner
The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA) has approved funding under its 1890 Institution Teaching, Research and Extension Capacity Building Grant for the establishment of a Citizen Science Watershed Lab at Florida A&M University (FAMU). The initiative is in collaboration with FAMU’s College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) Center for Water Resources (CWR) and Cooperative Extension Program, along with the University of Florida (UF) Institute of Food and 5 (L-R) Latasha Tanner, Kimberly Davis, Katherine Milla, Ph.D., Maia McGuire research and extension team for the FAMU citizen science watershed lab.
Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Sea Grant Program. “When fully developed, the lab will be housed at FAMU and will serve FAMU’s clientele as an Interdisciplinary Citizen Science Learning and Research
Center that collaborates across academic, government and private sectors,” said Dr. Katherine Milla, professor and project principal investigator. “The new facility will be established around an initial effort to develop a microplastic awareness project in Leon County.” There is mounting evidence that microplastics, which are plastic fragments less than 5mm in length, pose a serious threat to aquatic organisms and ecosystems, and may also pose as a threat to humans. Because plastics degrade very slowly, over hundreds to thousands of years, they continue to accumulate and have become pervasive in all elements of the environment, including water, land and air. They are consumed by aquatic organisms. Research on the effects of plastic consumption in animals, including humans is still in its infancy. Maia Mcguire, Ph.D., who developed and manages the Florida microplastic awareness project, in Flagler County, Florida, demonstrated to a team of FAMU personnel the collection of miroplastic samples from along sections of the beach in Flagler County and the collection, filtration and analysis of water samples for various types of microplastic fibers. “The team at FAMU is currently in the process of establishing a microplastic sampling and analysis facility at FAMU. When the initial phase of the Watershed Lab is completed, it will have the capability to educate community stakeholders about microplastics, and train students and citizen volunteers to collect microplastics data,” said Milla. Other Co-PIs on the project are Amita Jain, Ph.D., research associate, Odemari Mbuya, Ph.D., professor and CWR director at FAMU and Maia McGuire, Ph.D., extension agent IV, UF/IFAS. For more information about this project, contact Katherine Milla at katherine.milla@famu.edu.
44
F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
5 Odemari Mbuya, Ph.D., Director for the Center for Water Resources at Florida A&M University in attendance at the 68th United Nations Civil Society Conference.
FAMU REPRESENTED AT UNITED NATIONS CIVIL SOCIETY CONFERENCE Florida A&M University was represented at the National Council for Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Public Leadership at the 68th United Nations Civil Society Conference. Odemari Mbuya, Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Water Resources in the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences attended the conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. The theme for the conference was “Building Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Communities. “Although many countries are in the implementation phase to achieve Sustainable Development Goals, governments cannot achieve these goals by themselves, but by working together with the Civil Society such as non-governmental organizations, community groups, labor unions, charitable organizations, faith-based organizations, professional organizations and foundations,” said Mbuya. The FAMU-India Collaboration was hailed as a model of “working together to achieve integrated solutions for complex challenges.” The collaboration of FAMU, Anand Agricultural University, Junagadh Agricultural University, Vivekanand Research & Training Institute and the Government of India, are working together to promote and implement Climate Smart Agriculture 5 Latasha Tanner research associate collecting plastic fragments from Flagler Beach.
and rural development in India.
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
45
I
PATRICK EVERETT
knew Florida A&M University would be
the historic halls of Florida A&M University. And your
the institution I would attend after leaving
mother says, “Why not agribusiness?”
high school. What I wanted to study, that I
was not sure about. So imagine hearing your
mother ask, “why not agribusiness?” I began my
academic career in the halls of Perry-Paige in
1998.
Imagine yourself as a young high school student, trying to decide which academic discipline you would undergo as you matriculated through
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The first day of college can be a bit stressful for some, others might find it exciting and thrilling. “My first day at FAMU was fresh and interesting, knowing that many other students from across the U.S. and the world were there for one goal, and that was to matriculate and graduate with their degree,” said Everett. Like with anything else in life, Everett’s academic career had its fair share of ups and downs, however, he
MY FIRST DAY AT FAMU WAS FRESH AND INTERESTING, KNOWING THAT MANY OTHER STUDENTS FROM ACROSS THE U.S. AND THE WORLD WERE THERE FOR ONE GOAL, AND THAT WAS TO MATRICULATE AND GRADUATE WITH THEIR DEGREE had a team of student friends and professors who ensured
Companies both large and small came from around the
that his academic priorities remained at the top. “The
world to pitch ideas and food concepts to large companies
culture diversity on the campus is rich and it made it easy
with the hopes of entering the market place,” said Everett.
for me to find people who I felt most comfortable with. In
“There were many ‘barriers to entry,’ but most of the people I
addition, the small class sizes in the former College and
met were determined to showcase why the food product they
Engineering Science, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA)
branded would be the next global commodity.”
now College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) were
Everett graduated from CESTA in fall 2000 with a
small, which made it comfortable to talk with professors on
bachelor’s in agribusiness, with an offer of two fully-paid
a personal level,” said Everett. While at FAMU, Everett had
scholarships from WSU and UGA to pursue his master’s
internship opportunities to explore careers in the field of
degree. He chose WSU, located in Pullman, Washington.
agribusiness at other higher educational institutions and
Everett recounts that although the resources at WSU were
within the public sectors, both in the U.S. and abroad.
by far greater than that at FAMU, the quality of education
His first two internships were at Washington State
received at WSU was the same. After graduating with his
University (WSU) and the University of Georgia (UGA).
master’s degree in the spring of 2002, he went on to work
“These internships helped me learn more academics, that
with the USDA as an agricultural statistician for seven
I had not yet covered in my courses at FAMU, and the role
years where he kept track of the nation’s food supply, both
agribusiness plays in the U.S. economic activity,” said
domestically and internationally.
Everett. His overseas internship opportunity took him to the State
He then went on to work for the Department of Treasury, as an economist, where he handled large companies who
Department in Brussels, Belgium. There he got his dabble in
had off-shore accounts. It was in this position that he was
U.S. foreign relations¬—witnessing discussions on economic
able to fully see the effects of micro and macroeconomics
and political factors that affects the relationship between
on the gross domestic product. He now serves as a
the U.S. and the European Union. “The experience taught me
research operations analyst with the Department of Treasury
how U.S. delegates interact with the rest of the world and the
conducting process improvement and awareness of different
economic factors that were important to both domestic and
segments within the organization.
foreign parties at the time,” said Everett. Another internship experience that helped him to explore
“As I reflect on my undergraduate years, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to study at FAMU-CESTA in an
his field of study was with the U.S. Department of Agriculture
environment that was friendly and receptive to all students
(USDA) Food and Trade Industry. “This internship allowed
who were willing to learn…the foundation built there still
me to see competition and marketing at the base level.
stands solid as a rock”
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
47
Student Corner >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (Awards and Appointments) JERMAINE PERIER Entomology master’s student won 1st place in the graduate student competitive poster presentation for outstanding achievement in plant health and production, and plant products at the 2019 Association of Research Directors Symposium, which was held in Jacksonville, Florida. ALEX ORFINGER Agricultural science graduate student was awarded the Ernst Mayr travel grant in the amount of $1,000 from the Harvard University Museum of Comparative Zoology to help fund further academic training at Clemson University. He also won 1st place at the annual Florida Association of Aquatic Biologist Meeting, which was held in East Point, Florida. Presentation titled “Systematics of the Eastern North American Polycentropus sensustricto (Trichoptera: Polycentropodidae): A Proposal.” XAVIER MIRANDA-COLÓN Agribusiness senior was awarded the 2019 Florida Fertilizer & Agrichemical Association scholarship for academic achievements. JENIVA ST. PHAR Biological systems engineering senior received the FASABE 2019 Outstanding Student Award. Recognition was made at the Florida Section of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers 2019 Conference. RACHEL FERNANDEZ Animal science junior was awarded a $1,000 scholarship by the Florida Association for Food Protection for demonstrating passion and interest for food safety. DEEPA RAVEEBDRANPILLAI AND MIKELA PRYOR Agricultural science master’s student and biological systems engineering senior were awarded travel scholarships to attend the National Technical Association 91st Annual Conference, which was held in Baltimore, Maryland. MIKELA PRYOR Won 1st place in the undergraduate oral competition for her presentation titled “Meta-Analysis of Ochlocknee River Basin.” She also won 1st place for her oral presentation at the annual American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers Meeting, which was held in Boston, Massachusetts.
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faculty & Staff Corner
Conchita Newman >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Conchita Newman, extension agent received the 2019 Association of Extension Administrators (AEA) Award for Excellence in Extension in the Area of 4-H Youth Development. The award was presented at the Southern Region Program Leadership Network Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana. She also received the 2nd place award in the IGNITE presentation Competition. The title of her presentation was “AgriStem: Germinating Future Leaders.”
Jennifer Taylor, Ph.D. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Jennifer Taylor, Ph.D., associate professor was one of four recipients recognized and honored in September by the Rodale Institute for her contribution to the organic farming industry. She was also named 2019 “Woman of the Year in Agriculture,” for her service as an educator; development of a statewide small farm program with a focus on food systems and sustainable agriculture; and the hands-on-training and technical assistance she provided in alternative ag systems, organic farming systems, alternative market/food systems development and sustainable living for underserved farming communities.
Muhammad Haseeb, Ph.D. >>>>>>>>>>> Muhammad Haseeb, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Entomology Program received FAMU's 2019 Research Excellence Award. He also received the 2019 Achievement Award for Teaching, from the Florida Entomological Society. The award was presented at the 102nd Annual Meeting of the Society, which was held in Jupiter, Florida.
Kimberly Davis >>>>>>>>>>>>
Robert W. Taylor, Ph.D. >>>>>
Kimberly Davis, extension agent received 1st place at
Robert W. Taylor, Ph.D., dean of the College of Agriculture
the 2019 Southern Region Program Leadership Network
and Food Sciences was appointed to serve as a member
Meeting IGNITE Presentation Competition. The title of
of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer
her presentation was “Extension’s Role from Pre-Disaster
Services Innovation Advisory Workgroup. The term of
Planning to Long Term Recovery: Engaging with At-risk
appointment will expire June 30, 2022.
Communities in the face of Disaster.”
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
49
faculty & Staff Corner cont'd
Michee Lachaud, Ph.D. >>>>>
Dreamal Worthen, Ph.D. >>>
Assistant professor in the Agri-Business Program was awarded
Professor in the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences
the 2019 Outstanding Young Professional Award in recognition
was elected president of the Rural Sociology Society. She
of early career contributions to teaching, research and service
will be the first African-American female to ever serve in this
in the agricultural economics and agri-business. The award was
capacity.
presented by the Committee on the Opportunities and Status of Blacks in Agricultural Economics and Committee on Women in Agricultural Economics (COSBAE-CWAE) Mentoring Initiative: Engaging Students and Young Professions to Build the Next Generation of Agricultural Economists. The award was presented at the 2019 Annual Meeting of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association in Atlanta, Georgia.
Jenelle Robinson, Ph.D. >>>>> Assistant professor in the Food Science Program was selected as the recipient of the 2019 FAMU Sustainability Fellowship Award.
Anandhi Swamy, Ph.D. >>>>>> Assistant professor in the Biological Systems Engineering Program, in collaboration with Ohio State University developed and documented two novel methods that they use in the classroom to teach the concept of “Green Space.�
Odemari Mbuya, Ph.D. >>>>> Professor and director for the Center for Water Resources was selected as an International Scientific Advisor Board Member
Jesusa Legaspi, Ph.D. >>>>>>>> Co-director for the Center for Biological Control received the 2019 Achievement Award for Extension. The award was presented at the 102nd Annual Meeting of Florida Entomology Society, which was held in Jupiter, Florida.
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F LO R I DA A & M UNIV E R S ITY
for the Africa Center of Excellence for Mycotoxin and Food Safety based at the Federal University of Technology-Minna (Nigeria). The Center is funded by the World Bank.
Grant Awards >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> AMITA JAIN, PH.D.
KATHERINE MILLA, PH.D.
Research associate, along with CO-PIs, Odemari Mbuya, Ph.D.,
Assistant professor was awarded USDA-ARS grant in the amount
professor, Katherine Milla, Ph.D., professor, Ashvini Chauhan,
of $103,588. The funding will enable Dr. Ananga to conduct
Ph.D., professor and J.M. Grace, III, Ph.D., research engineer were
research through the 1890s Faculty Research Sabbatical Program
awarded a USDA-NIFA grant in the amount of $299,948. The
to identify southern leaf blight resistance genes in maize. The
funding will be used to study the effect of reclaimed wastewater
duration of the grant is September 2019 – August 2021.
irrigation on soil health and the environment. The duration of the grant is February 2019 – February 2022.
DANIEL SOLIS, PH.D. Assistant professor was awarded the USDA Forest Service Grant in
ANTHONY ANANGA, PH.D.
the amount of $10,000 for “Undergraduate Experiential Learning.”
Assistant professor was awarded USDA-ARS grant in the amount
The duration of the grant is January – June 2019.
of $103,588. The funding will enable Dr. Ananga to conduct research through the 1890s Faculty Research Sabbatical Program
DANIEL SOLIS, PH.D.
to identify southern leaf blight resistance genes in maize. The
Assistant professor was awarded the “Career Pathways for
duration of the grant is September 2019 – August 2021.
Agribusiness Students to the Produce and Floral Industry” by Center for Growing Talent, Produce Marketing Association. The
MOHAMMAD RAHMAN, PH.D. AND MEHBOOB SHEIKH,
grant is for $10,000 and has a duration of July – November 2019.
PH.D. Awarded the Viticulture Advisory Council, FDACS Grant to
MICHEE LACHAUD, PH.D.
develop sugar rich muscadine grapes using CRIPR-Cas9
Assistant professor was awarded the USDA, McIntire-Stennis
technology. The duration of the grant is July 2019 – June 2020.
Program Grant in the amount of $31,000. The grant will be used to study the economic and financial analysis of increasing cattle
ISLAM EL SHARKAWY, PH.D.
beef production and profitability in Indian River County in Florida
Assistant professor was awarded the following grants:
through silvopasture practices. The duration of the grant is
•
USDA-NIFA 1890 Capacity Building Program grant in the
September 2019 – September 2020.
amount of $461,832 to study Bioactivity-guided Discover
•
of Effective Anticancer and Antioxidant Compounds in
MOHAMMAD RAHMAN, PH.D.
Muscadine Grapes. The duration of the grant is February 2020
Research associate and Mehboob Sheikh, Ph.D., professor were
– January 2023.
awarded the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer
USDA – NIFA 1890 capacity Building Program in the amount of
Services (FDACS), Viticulture Advisory Council (VAC) grants
$500,000. The funding will be used to study Next Generation
program in the amount of $40,000 to develop sugar rich
Grape Breeding: Integrated Approach to Empower the Quality
muscadine grapes using CRIPR-Cas9 technology. The duration of
of Research and Training at Florida A&M University. The
the grant is July 2019 – June 2020.
duration of the grant is March 2020 – 202 February 2022. •
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Viticulture Advisory Council (VAC) grants program in the amount of $40,000. The focus of study is Breeding High Quality Southern Grape Cultivars for Meeting Industry Demands in Florida. The duration of the grant is June 2019 – May 2020.
CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
51
faculty & Staff Corner
cont'd
Publications >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> AGAR, J., SHIVLANI, M., FLEMING, C., SOLIS, D.
DARWISH, A.G., MENDONCA, P., SOLIMAN K.F.A., EL
2019. Small-scale Fishers’ Perceptions About the Performance of
SHARKAWY, I.
Seasonal Closures in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Ocean
2019. The Anticancer and Antioxidant effects of Muscadine Grape
and Coastal Management 175:33-42.
Extracts on Racially Different Triple-negative Breast Cancer Cells. Anticancer Research 39: 4043 – 4053.
ALVAREZ, S., BAMPASIDOU, M., SOLIS, D. 2019. Evaluating the Impact of Employing Local Tax Collectors
HOTTEL, B., PEREIRA, R., GEZAN S., KOEHLER, P.
to Improve State-Level Licensing Program Outcomes in Florida.
2019. Sticky Trap Design Considerations for Entrapping Bed Bugs.
Evaluation Review. https://doi.org/10.1177/0193841X19865353
Insects. https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4450/10/6/177
ALVAREZ, S., SOLIS, D., HWANG, J.
KAMBIRANDA, D.M, BASHA S.M., STRINGER, S.J., OBUYA, J.O.,
2019. Modeling Shellfish Harvest Policies for Food Safety: Wild
SNOWDEN, J.J.
Oyster Harvest Restrictions to Prevent Foodborne Vibrio Vulnificus.
2019. Multi-year Quantitative Evaluation of Stilbenoids Levels
Food Policy 83:219-230.
Among Selected Muscadine Grape Cultivars. Molecules. 11;24(5). pii: E981. doi:10.3390/molecules24050981
ALVAREZ, S., LUPI, F., SOLIS, D., THOMAS, M. 2019. Valuing Provision Scenarios of Coastal Ecosystem Services:
KANGA, L.H.B., SIEBERT, S.C., SHEIKH, M., LEGASPI J.C.
The Case of Boat Ramp Closures Due to Harmful Algae Blooms in
2019. Pesticide Residues in Conventionally and Organically
Florida. Water 11(6), 1250.
Managed Apiaries in South and North Florida. Current Investigations in Agriculture and Current Research 7(3). doi.10.32474/
ANANDHI A., PIERSON, D.C., FREI, A.
CAICR.2019.07.000262
2019. Evaluation of Climate Model Performance Over the New York City Water Supply Basins Using Probability-based Skill Scores.
LI R., IBEANUSI, V., HOYLE-GARDNER, J., CRANDALL, C., JAGOE,
Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management (accepted).
C., SEAMAN, J., ANANDHI, A., CHEN, G. 2019. Bacterial-facilitated uranium transport in the presence of
ANANDHI A., SRINIVAS, V.V., NANJUNDIAH, R.S., KUMAR D.N.
phytate at Savannah River Site. Chemosphere. 223:351-7.
2019. Downscaling and Disaggregation of Wind Speed to River Basin in India for IPCC SRES Scenarios. International Journal of
LI S., HARRIS, S., ANANDHI A., CHEN G.
Energy Water Food Nexus. 1: 29-41.
2019. Predicting biochar properties and functions based on feedstock and pyrolysis temperature: A review and data syntheses.
BOURASSA, M., MEISSNER, T., CEROVECKI, I., CHANG, P.,
Journal of Cleaner Production. 215:890-902.
DONG, X., DE CHIARA, G., DONLON, C., DUKHOVSKOY, D., ELYA, J., FORE, A., FEWINGS, M., FOSTER, R., GILLE, S.,
NAYAK, J.J., GAJJAR, P.D., BASHA, S.M., NAIK, K.S.S.
HAUS, B., HRISTOVA-VELEVA, S., HOLBACH, H., JELENAK, Z.,
Interrelationship between stilbene producing ability and Aspergillus
KNAFF, J., KRANZ, S., MANASTER, A., MAZLOFF, M., MEARS,
colonization on selected peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes.
C., MOUCHE, A., PORTABELLA, M., REUL, N., RICCIARDULLI,
Peanut Science. 2019 46: (accepted)
L., RODRIGUEZ, E., SAMPSON, C., SOLIS, D., STOFFELEN, A., STUKEL, M., STILES, B., WEISSMAN D., AND WENTZ F.
WU, P., HASEEB, M., ZHANG, R., KANGA, L.H.B., LEGASPI, J.C.
2019. Remotely Sensed Winds and Wind Stresses for Marine
2019. In vitro Consumption Patterns of Pepper Weevil, Anthonomus
Forecasting and Ocean Modeling. Frontier in Marine Science 6:443.
eugenii (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on two Commercial Pepper
https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2019.00443.
Cultivars in Florida. Applied Entomology and Zoology. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs13355-019-00645-x
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Alumni Corner >>>>>>>>>>>>>> NANDKUMAR DIVATE Agri-business alumnus, has been
Congratulations 2019 Graduates! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS SPRING 2019 Darius Batten
B.S., Food Science
Veronica Burse
B.S., Animal Science
Tamia Campbell
B.S., Animal Science
Aytron Canahualpa
B.S., Agricultural Science
Dorian Clark
B.S., Food Science
Imani Cooper**
B.S., Biological Systems Engineering
Recently appointed as a bank analyst
Cierra Edwards
B.S., Food Science
at the Farm Credit Administration.
Jeremy Greene**
B.S., Agri-Business
McNealy earned a master’s degree
Ahotep Holder**
B.S., Animal Science
from the College of Agriculture
Sharise James*
B.S., Animal Science
and Food Sciences agri-business
Zaida Kidane
B.S., Animal Science
program in 2018.
Shayla Mason***
B.S., Food Science
promoted to director of Workforce Education Data Systems at the Florida Department of Education. GREG MCNEALY
Briana Orsborn**
B.S., Food Science
CHRISTOPHER DAVIS, PH.D.
Janeesa Pagan
B.S., Biological Systems Engineering
Elected chair of the Committee on
Ryan Peltonen
B.S., Agronomy
Opportunities and Status of Blacks
Vanessa Pitts
B.S., Animal Science
in Agricultural Economics. Davis
Esi Sawyer*
B.S., Food Science
earned a master’s degree from the
Meghan Spencer*
B.S., Food Science
College of Agriculture and Food
Jeniva St. Phar
B.S., Biological Systems Engineering
Sciences agri-business program in
Sarah Verges
B.S., Animal Science
1995.
Riann White***
B.S., Food Science
SUMMER 2019 Joshua Darby
B.S., Animal Science
Telisa Evans
B.S., Agri-Business
Colby Gay***
B.S., Animal Science
FALL 2019 Demani Blatch
B.S., Animal Science
Danielle Coney
B.S., Agricultural Science
Janae Cooke
B.S., Food Science
Papa Gueye
B.S., Agronomy
Johnesha Jackson
B.S., Animal Science
Jahlita Janeau
B.S., Food Science
Nyah Martin
B.S., Food Science
Aubrey McCarty
B.S., Agri-Business
Xavier Miranda-Colon
B.S., Agri-Business
Jenisis Moreland
B.S., Agri-Business
Oswald Pacheco-Laboy
B.S., Agronomy
Raena Patterson
B.S., Food Science
Lourdes Perez Cordero
B.S., Agronomy
of Water Resources in the College
Jenae Powell
B.S., Animal Science
of Agriculture and Food Science.
Mikela Pryor
B.S., Biological Systems Engineering
Mbuya is also a co-author of “Building
Cameron Singleton
B.S., Agri-Business
Book Chapter Publication >>>>>>> Strategies for Doubling Farmers’ Income: A Gujurat Perspective, is the title of the book of which Odemari Mbuya Ph.D., is a co-author. Mbuya is a professor and director for the Center
Climate Smart Farmers,” *** Summa Cum Laude | ** Magna Cum Laude | * Cum Laude CO L L EG E O F AG RICULTURE A ND FO O D S C IE N C E S
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Internships >>>>>>>>>>>>
graduates cont'd GRADUATE STUDENTS SPRING 2019 Josie Danielle Toliver
Kayla Braggs
University of Georgia Cooperative Extension
Skylar Broome
Purdue University College of Veterinary Science
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences Major: Plant Science SUMMER 2019 Patricia Odun Akingboye
Godfred Gakeptor
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Major: Plant Science
Major: Agri-Business
Thesis: Genotypic Variation in
Thesis: The Cost Effectiveness of
Vinification Qualities and Antioxidant
Biological Control of Air Potato Vine
Properties of Muscadine Wines in
Using Air Potato Beetle (liloceris
Florida.
cheni): A Biocontrol Agent in Florida.
Thesis Chair: Violeta Tsolova, Ph.D.
Thesis Chair: Michael Thomas, Ph.D.
Donna Arnold
Walker Marechal
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Major: Entomology
Major: Entomology
Thesis: Examining The Prevalence of
Thesis: Management of the Small
Solenopsis Invicta Virus 3 (SINV-3) In
Hive Beetle, Aethina Tumida Murray
Solenopsis Invicta
(coleopteran: Nitidulidae) in Honey
(Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Alates
Bee, Apis Mellifera L., (Hymenoptera
Collected in Rural and urban Areas of
Apidae) Colonies.
North and Central Florida.
Thesis Chair: Lambert Kanga, Ph.D.
Thesis Chair: Benjamin Hottel, Ph.D. Jermaine Perier Kartik Joshi
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Major: Entomology
Major: Agri-Business
Thesis: Integration of Two Predaceous
Thesis: Impacts of Climatic Variability
Stinkbugs and A Larval Parasitoid
on Partial Technical Efficiency and
to Manage Armyworm Spodoptera
Agricultural Total Factor Productivity
Frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae),
Across the Southern States in the
an ecologically Important Pest Insect
United States.
of Corn in Florida.
Thesis Chair: Michee Lachaud, Ph.D.
Thesis Chair: Muhammad Haseeb, Ph.D.
Meghan Campbell
Iowa State University
Janae Cooke
JBS USA Holdings, Inc. – Pilgrim’s Pride
Olivia Gilstrap
University of Georgia
Kierra Goosby
BASF
Kendahl Heckstall
Washington State University
Jaylin Jacobs
Amazon Association
Kayla Keith
U.S. Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service
Jacob Long
John Deere
Ajiona Lunsford:
Cheetah Conservation Fund, South Africa
E’lan Miles
Pineapple with a Purpose LLC
Xavier Miranda-Colon Cargill Jenisis Moreland
University of Georgia
Rochard Moricette
Elanco
Shierney Murphy
Wayne Farms
Deaundr’e Newsome
John Deere
Mikela Pryor
U.S. Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service
FALL 2019 Jacenta Hinton
Andrew Rhone
Walmart
Zachary Scarlett
Frito Lay – Pepsico
William Walter
U.S. Department of Agriculture – Natural
Degree: M.S., Agricultural Sciences Major: Plant Science Thesis: Effects of growth Yield and Seed Quality Components of Brassica Carinata: Avanza G41. Thesis Chair: Violeta Tsolova, Ph.D.
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Resources Conservation Service
