Seek

to achieve a culture where everyone in the college is included, respected, and supported.

The LSU College of Agriculture has been intentional in its diversity efforts since 1998. These past efforts include recruitment initiatives, a diversity conference, and training opportunities. Recently the LSU AgCenter and the college collaboratively created the Council for Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Change, which started its work in 2020. The council is composed of a cross-section of faculty, staff, administrators, and students. The results of the council’s early actions and the college’s concerted efforts include high-impact initiatives.

Assistant VP for Diversity, Inclusion, and Opportunity

The LSU AgCenter and College of Agriculture named Monica Guient assistant vice president for diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. To fulfill the vision to be a more inclusive college, Guient works jointly with the council and the college to provide diversity and inclusion training, learning, and development opportunities; develop metric-based diversity and inclusion goals; and deploy resources to support student-centered programs and initiatives.

76%

of 2020-2021 College of Agriculture graduates indicated they value diversity and equity.

20%

ethnically and racially diverse graduates from 2021.

$10,000

awarded in Ag Fellows scholarships.

8

international visits and research projects.

Student Groups

Our students are empowered to champion diversity and inclusion for all students. The longstanding legacy and leaders of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) at LSU promote the advancement of members from underrepresented ethnic and cultural groups within agriculture. Tigers for Cultivating Change was established in 2021 to provide a safe, inclusive network for LGBTQ+ and ally students interested in agriculture sciences. Both groups complement the college’s vision to foster a diverse and inclusive environment.

Diversity and Inclusion Champions

The inaugural cohort of the Diversity and Inclusion Champions convened in January 2021. Each of the 12 champions seek to be an advocate for diversity and inclusion within their department or school while standing as a pillar of support for students. Champions have engaged in multiple diversity-focused training sessions and are empowered to be a liaison for students, faculty, and staff. The 2021 cohort has collaborated with Southern University faculty and students to support research and teaching.

“Never give up on yourself, your dreams, and others.”

At 69 years old, Pierre Besse was this year’s oldest LSU graduate, receiving a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil systems.

Pierre Besse at Hill Farm located on LSU’s main campus.