Linking the College to its Alumni and Friends Tennessee State University College of Agriculture Magazine • www.tnstate.edu/agriculture • Winter 2020
2020: COVID-19 came calling. Our scientists answered. ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: • Something Wicked This Way Came • Class Acts: Celebrating our star students • Growing another crop of New Farmers
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The USDA/1890s Scholars Program awards recipients full tuition, room and board, and a potential fulltime position within the USDA upon graduation and successful completion of the program.
For details and applications, visit https://www.outreach.usda.gov/education/1890/
Message from the Dean
D
ear Alumni and Friends.
After a year of hiatus, we are bringing this new issue of AgLINK to you. To put it mildly, this past year hasn’t been easy for any of us, and I hope 2021 will be better! The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) imprisoned most of the world population at one time or other during this past year. A deadly tornado outbreak affected West and Middle Tennessee on the night of March 2 and into the morning of March 3, 2020, which erased the entire infrastructure of the Agricultural Research and Education Center located on the Main Campus of Tennessee State University. If these challenges were not enough, the Capitol Insurrection events of January 6, 2021 have shaken everyone who believes in democracy and the rule of law. However, thanks to the resiliency of our students, faculty, and staff, we have continued our teaching, research, and Extension operations, although with some changes. The College of Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean Agriculture offered 85 percent of our courses online, and research and Extension operations College of Agriculture continued with staggered staff workplace schedules and adjustments by our faculty and staff to perform their jobs mostly from home. Faculty and staff quickly learned new ways to operate effectively and efficiently and they certainly had a productive year. In the middle of all these challenges, we offered two brand new scholarship programs to our undergraduate students, the Farm Bill Scholarships and SunTrust (Truist) Scholarships. We started two new graduate programs, an M.S. in Environmental Sciences and an MS in Food and Animal Sciences. For the first time in the history of TSU, dozens of our research and Extension faculty earned tenure based on the Research and Extension Faculty Governance Policy adopted in 2014. This is a historic achievement not only for Tennessee State University, but also for setting a standard for faculty working at other 1890 universities. I am extremely thankful to President Glover for her enthusiastic support to make this change to the Faculty Promotion and Tenure Policy of the university. TSU is one of the few universities in the country that were awarded emergency funding under a program for COVID-19 research and education. Our faculty quickly began to educate the public on COVID-19 prevention measures and conduct research to control COVID-19. Our Food Engineering Laboratory has developed techniques to control COVID-19 on surfaces using ultraviolet light, and our virology labs have published data providing new understanding about the virus. College of Agriculture faculty made great use of stay-at-home directives to submit grant proposals that secured $15 million of federal funding in six months. This is a historical record for the College and am very thankful to the faculty and thrilled with this achievement! Our Extension agents located in fifty counties of the state continued their public education effort albeit with limited physical meetings. During this pandemic, we have also completed the design and bidding process for the construction of a new Food Science Building. We are working with the State of Tennessee and its insurance company to rebuild the tornado-erased infrastructure on our Main Campus Agricultural Research and Education Center. While this process has been tedious, and at times frustrating, all players involved have been motivated to get this job done as quickly as possible. I am very optimistic that we will have our facilities back this year. MESSAGE, Continued on page 3
Dr. Glenda Glover, TSU president (left), and Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of TSU’s College of Agriculture (right), speak to legislators at the Land-Grant Institution Funding Committee meeting on Jan. 11, 2020 at the Cordell Hull Building in Nashville, Tennessee.
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Contents 1 2 3
Message from the Dean Contents From the Editor
4 TSU, UT partnership creates clear path to vet school for TSU students 5
Congratulations to our Graduates!!
8 Born Again: TSU Ag Alum Revive Their Organization 10 Growing Up and Out: New Farmer Academy expands East and West training more small farmers
On the Cover COVID-19 has left no one untouched, including Tennessee State University. As of this writing, more than 8,300 people have died from the virus in Tennessee and 400,000 have died in the United States. TSU offers COVID-19 testing for its students and employees and asks that those on campus wear a mask and practice social distancing.
Contributors include: Jenai Bryant, Dr. Tom Byl, Erynne Davis, Dr. Jason de Koff, Ashlyn Freeman, Emmanuel Freeman, Miette Glover, Emily Hayes, Hubert Hamer, William Hayslett, Lucas Johnson II, Nakana Morton, Dr. Dharma Pitchay, Braxton Simpson, Maggie Syversen, Jon Wakefield, Emmanuel Wallace, Mikaela Wiley, Aisha Williams, Cierra Woods, Dr. De’Etra Young, and Dr. Suping Zhou.
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15 Dean elected to chair ARD
17 Running Wild Wisely: A Zoo Internship Program is born 18 Meet our ‘Suntrust, now Truist’ scholars 20 COVID-19 came calling; Ag Science answered back 24 Tornado 2020: Something wicked this way came 30 U. S. Secretary of Agriculture visits 32 College now offers new graduate Environmental Sciences degree 33 TSU Extension agents keep counties covered during pandemic
34 Class Acts: We shine a light on our star students 40 Bloom Where You Are Planted 49 Time to apply for the Farm Bill Scholarship
Message, Continued from page 1
The State of Tennessee has appointed a Joint Land-Grant Funding Study Committee that began to look at the historical discrepancies in funding of the land-grant programs at Tennessee State University. President Glenda Glover has recently testified to this committee and explained the missed opportunities due to the history of unmet state matching funds that were required for the federal land-grant awards. I have narrated the phenomenal growth of the College of Agriculture in securing competitive federal grant funds and in graduating B.S., M.S., and Ph. D students majoring in agricultural fields. We are very confident that once the study is complete, the State of Tennessee will substantially increase TSU’s land-grant funding! Thanks to modern science, we all will get vaccinated soon and will be able to go back to operating normally, that’s my hope and prayer. Thanks for your continued support of Tennessee State University and its land-grant programs! Sincerely,
From the Editor
A
video traveled through social media last year of an irate gentleman hauling a garbage bag labeled 2020 out to the roadside trash can. He tosses the bag into the can. A successful slam dunk. It’s funny. For a second. Then, it’s not. 2020 has been easy for no one. Certain words became part of our daily vocabulary: quarantine, face mask, social distancing, virus, and death toll.
Joan Kite Editor
Perhaps some of you lost someone to the virus during this historic pandemic. At TSU, we did too. We send you our sincere condolences. Or maybe your life has been upended in other ways. A tornado blew through your home. A job was lost. A forced and sudden move. Or perhaps you suffered an illness or accident that sent you to a hospital while hospital beds and corridors were packed with patients stricken by COVID-19. I can relate. That happened to me, too. So we added other words to our verbal arsenal: resilience, patience, empathy, endurance, optimism, and hope. In light of new leadership in the White House and COVID-19 vaccines being approved and distributed, we now have hope. At TSU, our leaders did not cringe. President Glenda Glover, and her team, and Dr. Chandra Reddy, and his team of scientists, administrators, and staff at the College of Agriculture, stepped forward sizing up the two beasts — the tornado and the pandemic. We will rebuild what the tornado destroyed. We will protect our students and employees from the virus by staggering work and class schedules, teaching online, and shortening semesters. When we do see each other, we are masked heroes, standing six feet apart, communicating our needs to get the job done. Whatever it takes.
Chandra Reddy Dean and Director of Research/ Administrator of Extension
Our scientists are currently working on three-year research projects that will help small nurseries identify customers possibly suffering from COVID-19 and divert them to a safer shopping experience. Another researcher is overseeing a team of academics who are developing online curriculum for high schoolers interested in pursuing careers in agriculture. A pandemic will not thwart our efforts to steer the best and brightest into Ag labs, farms, and fields. Yet a third scientist is testing the effects of UV rays on surfaces contaminated with COVID-19. All of this is happening despite the damage this past year has brought us. Soon, we will be able to gather again. Our own personal harvest time. We will share food, tell tales, and truly enjoy each other’s company. A “new normal” will emerge that is better than the “old new normal” because we have learned what to value and appreciate.
This issue documents events from 2019 and 2020 to include an accurate history of newsworthy happenings at TSU. The next issue will appear in June 2021.
For now, a new year is upon us. 2021 is fresh with promise and hope. We wish you the best as you pursue those scholarships, obtain those internships, and earn those degrees. We are here to help no matter the damage or danger. Now go make us proud.
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TSU, UT partnership creates clear path to vet school for TSU students By JOAN KITE College of Agriculture freshmen will now have a unique opportunity to pursue their path to become a veterinarian with the help of TSU and the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (UT-CVM), two institutions that have signed a written agreement to ensure TSU students can achieve that goal. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) identifies qualifying TSU freshman and immediately sets them on an academic trajectory preparing those students to successfully meet the requirements for admission into schools or colleges of veterinary medicine. “I’m very excited about it,” said Dr. Mike Jones, director of Students Services, Diversity, and Recruitment at UT-CVM. Veterinary Medicine is considered one of the least diverse of all health care professions. “We want to serve the needs of the underserved.” Students are notified when they are accepted into TSU’s and UTCVM Pre-Veterinary Emphasis (PVE) Scholars Program. The students are then assigned mentors — one each from TSU and UTCVM. The mentors work together to advise each student, monitor their progress, ensure ongoing commitment, and support other training opportunities such as summer jobs or internships. “The MOU between TSU’s
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Sophomore Cierra Woods researches turtles in the wetlands at the College’s Agricultural Research and Education Center. Woods is an agriculture major concentrating on Food and Animal Sciences with a Pre-Vet focus. Photo courtesy of Cierra Woods
College of Agriculture and UT’s College of Veterinary Medicine provides a pathway for students majoring in Animal Science at TSU to get into the veterinary school
at UT. We are very pleased with this new arrangement between the schools,” said Dr. Chandra Reddy, VET, Turn to page 47
Advanced Degrees Ekunday Adeleke, Ph.D., Biological Science Abimbola Allison, Ph.D., Biological Science Devendra Bhandari, Ph.D., Biological Science Shohana Huq, Ph.D., Biological Science Siquin Liu, Ph.D., Biological Science Mahesh Rangu, Ph.D., Biological Science Uzoamaka Abana, M.S. Agricultural Sciences Eze Amadi, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Christopher Anuo, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Binod Gyawali, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Kanita Hutchinson, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Christina Jennings, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Jenna Jones, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Tyler Keene, M.S. Food and Animal Sciences Kyle McGear, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Reneth Millas, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Oladapo Omosa, M.S., Food and Animal Sciences Mathew Smith, M.S., Agricultural Sciences Monica Smith, M.S., Food and Animal Sciences Honey Ummey, M.S., Agricultural Sciences
Bachelor of Science Agricultural Sciences Dominique Harris Darian Majors Devinn Pauley Kayla Wilson
Bachelor of Science Family & Consumer Sciences Rasha Aloqail Willie Avery Armada Castillo Madison Eddings Amauri Hatcher Derek Larkin Corey Melson Abdikadir Mohamed
Kanidra Morris Tiara Morton Blair Moses Tommy Norman Keyara Nunn Shalimar Randolph Kemauria Stratton
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Bachelor of Science Agricultural Sciences Undergraduate Class of 2020 Rodney Blackwell, Environmental Science Aniya Bryant, Environmental Science & Urban Studies Gabriel Carrasquillo-Rogue, Biotechnology Taynan Cattozatto, Biotechnology Micah Davis-Bowen, Animal Science Milan Gipson, Food Science & Technology Dominique Harris, Pre-Veterinary Medicine Charmichael Jefferson, Biotechnology Darrius Lawson, Environmental Science Darian Majors, Agribusiness Shakarah Nelson, Environmental Science
Devinn Pauley, Animal Science Taylor Pikes, Animal Science Devionia Sanders, Animal Science Kayla Smith, Environmental Science Ryan Smith, Agribusiness Reavan Starks, Food Science & Biotechnology Maggie Syversen, Environmental Science Ashley Warner, Food Science & Biotechnology Emoni White, Agricultural Education Jaresiah Williams, Pre-Veterinary Medicine Daiva Wilson, Biotechnology
Graduate Class of 2020 M.S. in Agricultural Sciences Aron Felts Binod Gyawali Bandana Bhusal Carrie Cook Victoria Deren Molly Elizabeth Gore Samuel Gray Vivek Ojha Wilson Kihugu Ouma Milan Panth Madhav Parajuli Lynda Peter Desiree Robertson M.S. in Environmental Sciences Bradley Nissen Emily Nolan Nicole Witzel
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M.S. in Food & Animal Sciences Alicia Aldridge Angela Settles Jordan Jennings Winnie Mulkuna Alexis Pigg Professional Science Master in Applied GIS Jonathon Dixon Certificate in Applied GIS Derek Grisby Ph.D. in Biological Sciences Ekundayo Adeleke Daniel Demissie Siyang Jian Ravneet Kaur Collins Khwatenge Boniface Kimithi Santosh Thapa
Bachelor of Science Family & Consumer Sciences Fall Class of 2020 Child Development & Family Studies Tyrani Blaylock Erica Davis Ansona Donelson Brittaney Goddard Makenzye Humphrey Paige Lampkin Anthony Marcie Penny Payne Wayne Smith Cammie West Michelle Williams
Fashion Merchandising LaDaja Martin Tia McDonald Emaeya Powell Food & Nutritional Sciences Nasya Jackson Breanna Sanders
Spring Class of 2020 Child Development & Family Studies Nijaia Bradley Clifford Clayton Onye Crews Kalondria Harper Faith Holmes Sierra Holmes Erica Howse Tia Kent Shamon Rucker Shannon Walton McKenna Willis
Fashion Merchandising Paris Baker Simon Bishara Randle Evans Mia Montgomery Hawa Muhina Derrick Peevy Shalumar Randolph Food & Nutritional Sciences LaShayne Wilder MiKaela Wiley
Family & Consumer Sciences Mi’Kaela Harris
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n r o ! B ain g a Alumni revive TSU Agriculture Alumni Organization
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By JOAN KITE and WILLIAM HAYSLETT Absence does, in fact, make the heart grow fonder. Especially when it involves breakfast. For years, College of Agriculture alumni would flock together at the Alumni Breakfast traditionally held the morning of the Homecoming parade and big game. William Hayslett, executive director of Academic Programs and Operations, had been a fixture of the breakfast for years cooking up eggs and bacon for years. But in 2107 and 2018, the Homecoming breakfast was canceled. This year, breakfast returned to Saturday’s agenda and once again, agriculture alumni gathered round. They returned with a hungry desire to revive TSU Agriculture Alumni Organization. “I am really supportive of us staying connected,” said Hubert Hamer, member of TSU’s College of Agriculture Class of ’80 and currently the top official in the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. “We really enjoy the alumni breakfast for the ag people and the ag people are very interested in getting that organization jump-started. We just want to give back.” James Reaves, a member of the Class of 75’ who is now a country director for
Extension at the University of Illinois, is part of the alumni activists working to revive the organization. “We started contacting the alumni and started raising money for the breakfast, if funding was an issue,” Reaves said. The attendees raised enough money to cover the cost of the breakfast and set aside extra dollars to help fund scholarships, said Secretary and Treasurer Terri Sneed. They also arranged for the breakfast to be catered so alumni didn’t have to wake up before sunrise to stoke the breakfast fires. This year’s breakfast proved to be a hit. “More than 100 people showed up,” Reaves said. “The breakfast is an ideal place to reunite and fellowship,” said Alumni Organization President Hugh Jackson of Class of ’73. “It was great to be able to reconnect with a lot of alumni who had been beneficial in my career and see how the actual school has changed.” Since then, alumni members have been compiling email and mailing lists so they can reach out to members regularly to tell them what the college is doing and request their participation and support for current students. “We are looking for anyone who graduated in agriculture or family and ALUMNI, Continued on page 46
Top right: Alumni members gather for a catered breakfast at TSU’s 2019 Homecoming College of Agriculture Alumni breakfast where members revived the inactive Alumni Organization. Top left: Hubert Hamer (center), Class of ’80 and Administrator for the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, is pictured with TSU friends Howard Hill (from left), Roy Herron, John Tomlin, and Jeff Hamer. Below: William Hayslett (left) works with students at TSU College of Agriculture. Photos courtesy of Hubert Hamer and William Hayslett
Agriculture Alumni Officers 2020 President Hugh Jackson Retired USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service retiredtwo@comcast.net Vice President Christopher Westbrook Retired USDA Rural Development Secretary/Treasurer Terri L. Sneed Special Projects Coordinator USDA/Rural Development Campus Liaison William F. Hayslett, Sr. Retired Executive Director Tennessee State University College of Agriculture william.hayslett@comcast.net
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Growing up and out New Farmer Academy training more small farmers East and West Story and Photos by JOAN KITE
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When the New Farmer Academy began in 2014, nine people signed up. Some of those new farmers from that inaugural class have become locally famous — farmers like Reggie Marshall. Reggie’s Veggies has been featured in numerous print and online publications. Marshall left a stressful job at a large Nashville hospital to pursue his dream of becoming a farmer. In the New Farmer Academy, he was able to learn the ins and outs of farming from business practices to crop production principles. Now, his whole family helps grow vegetables and herbs, bake cakes and pies, and make mint tea and lemonade. Marshall sells his goodies at the Nashville Farmers’ Market. Just as Marshall’s professional life has grown so has the New Farmer Academy. This past year, more than 50 farmers participated in the 7-month program at TSU’s Agricultural Research and Education Center (AREC), located on the main campus in Nashville. The program has also branched out and is now offered in
“Farming is addictive. Once you’re in, you can’t get out.”
Finis Stribling Superintendent TSU Cooperative Extension
Memphis in West Tennessee and Wartburg in East Tennessee. “I’m scared to advertise,” joked Finis Stribling, a third generation farmer who oversees the New Farmer Academy as part of his numerous responsibilities as a
Cooperative Extension Superintendent. “It started as a pilot program funded by the USDA and it has grown exponentially.” In Nashville, the program begins in March and ends in September. Participants meet once a month and spend that whole day focusing on certain topics ranging from soil health, livestock production, fruit and vegetable productions, green house management, hydroponics, marketing strategies, business management skills, and applying for grants and other financial assistance. The new farmers tour existing farms, looking at different farming practices and production models, and meeting veteran farmers who offer their knowledge and
Top right: Participants in the TSU College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension New Farmer Academy listen to farmer Will Peacher talk about organic farming on his farm, Firefly Farms, located in Indian Mound, Tenn. Bottom right: One of farmer Charles Pecka’s sons explains the production of hydroponic cucumbers at Morning Star Farm in Adams, Tenn. Top left: Charles Pecka, owner of Morning Star Farm, talks with members of the New Farmer Academy. Bottom right: Master Gardener Joan Clayton-Davis introduces herself to the group of 2019 new farmers.
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New Farmer Academy
Left: A worker tends to hydroponic cucumber crops at Morning Star Farm in Clarksville, Tennessee. Top: Garlic is being dried in the barn at Firefly Farms. Below: Courtney (left) and Will Peacher are transitioning their farm from tobacco to organic fruits and vegetables.
“The biggest challenge for us is the enormity of all we want to do. There are so many things we want to learn about and do and only so many hours in the day.” Courtney Peacher Farmer Firefly Farms experience and answer any questions. The new farmers come from all over the United States and heir backgrounds vary widely. Matt Hobson says his family is exploring farming. Brian McDonald, from Orange County, California, is a retired president from an electronics company who wants to settle on an organic farm in Tennessee. Susan Howlett is a retired professor with a 7-acre farm in Giles County. Whitney Shelley is a certified
herbalist who is shopping for land to grow her own organic herbs. Master Gardeners husband and wife team Joan Clayton-Davis and Biars Davis are in this year’s class. There are aspiring hemp growers, urban gardeners, beekeepers, and goat owners. They share one commonality; they all want to work the land. “Farming is addictive,” Stribling warned his class. “Once you’re in, you can’t get out.”
During August’s meeting, the new farmers took tours of Firefly Farm in Indian Mound Tennessee and listened to a community member speak about participating in local farmer’s markets. Courtney and Will Peacher, of Firefly Farms, met as students at Austin Peay State University. Courtney was studying art and education. Will was studying agriculture. “We started living together and Winter 2020 | AgLINK 13
Members of the 2019 New Farmers Academy take a group photo at Firefly Farms following a tour of farms in Tennessee.
gardening together,” Courtney Peacher said. “Will grew up on a tobacco farm.” On their own farm, the couple are transitioning from tobacco to organic fruits and vegetables and run a CSA. Subscribers pay the Peachers a seasonal subscription fee and receive fresh produce through growing season. And they invite schools and other groups to visit their farm to learn about working the land. “We were thrilled to have you guys visit the farm,” Courtney Peacher said about the new farmers from TSU. “I feel like my education courses have helped me in my interactions with other people teaching them about the farm. We love the education aspect. I hope to have the schools come our more and perhaps do arts and crafts. The Peachers made it clear to the new farmers that farming is hard work. “The biggest challenge for us is the enormity of all we want to do. There are so many things we want to learn about and do and only so many hours in the day,” she said. The participants also toured Morning Star Farm owned by Charles and Myong Pecka. The retired military couple has
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“They’re not afraid of hard work or long hours or a seven-days-a-week commitment. And you still are in service to your community.” Charley Jordan Veteran & Farmer Circle J Ranch perfected the art of growing greens and other vegetables in ideal hydroponic and greenhouse conditions. They sell their produce at Nashville Farmers Market and the Clarksville Farmers Market. Charles Pecka shares an important similarity with another of TSU’s New Farmer Academy alumnae Charley Jordan. Both are veterans. Jordan has become a leader in the veteran farmers community --
ever present with his service dog Dagger at farm conferences and workshops. Jordan said veterans make ideal farmers. “They’re not afraid of hard work or long hours or a seven-days-a-week commitment,” Jordan said. “And you still are in service to your community.” Jordan owns Circle J. Ranch in Woodlawn, Tennessee, where he grows, vegetables, flowers, and most recently, mushrooms. TSU New Farmer Academies in East and West Nashville are experiencing similar success and growth. In East Nashville, 25 people signed up for the New Farmer Academy. Topics covered included Hops Production, Managing for Wildlife, Beef Cattle Production and Marketing, Small Ruminant Production (goats and sheep), and Farm Planning and Goal Setting. Participants in the East Nashville program toured the Forest Research Center, and covered Agritourism visiting a winery, two different hops yards, a pick-your-own operation and a business that rents goats for land clearing. “Most of (my participants) are looking NEW FARMER, Continued on page 15
NEW FARMER, From page 14
for niche crop opportunities and ideas that would allow them to products and sell at a premium despite a smaller land base,” said East Nashville coordinator and Extension Agent Jenni Goodrich. “Most participants also have had a goal of including the wildlife/pollinator component in their farms plans so that one has also become a standard topic as well,” Goodrich said. Those interested in signing up for the program may want to do so early. The Nashville Academy already has a waiting list of 15 participants.
The New Farmer Academy is a 7-month certification program that begins in March and ends in September of 2021. Participants meet from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. once a month. Registration is $175 and covers materials, lunches and snacks for all 7 workshop dates. To register, contact: Finish Stribling, III Middle Tennessee/Nashville fstribling@tnstate.edu (931) 375-5301 Jenni Goodrich East Tennessee/Wartburg (423) 346-3000 jgoodri2@tnstate.edu Jo Anne Waterman West Tennessee/Memphis (901) 752-1207 jwaterm1@tnstate.edu
Dr. Chandra Reddy elected as Chair of the Association of 1890 Research Directors By JOAN KITE Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of College of Agriculture and Director of Research/ Administrator of Extension at Tennessee State University, has been elected as the Chair of the Association of 1890 Research Directors, a respected organization of nineteen 1890 land-grant universities that provides coordination of research initiatives among member 1890 institutions in cooperation with federal, state, and private partners. All of his immediate ARD colleagues described him as an excellent collaborator who could reach across tables and encourage people to work together. Dr. Alton Thompson, the non-elected Executive Director of the Association of 1890 Research Directors, said Reddy is an excellent choice for leading ARD. “He’s thoughtful. He’s done a great job at leading the program at TSU. I’ve seen a marked improvement over there in the collaborative research,” said Dr. Thompson, who was also former dean of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. “He’s brought that same collaborative spurt to the 19 universities in the ARD.” “Dr. Chandra Reddy will assume the role of ARD Chair,” wrote the previous chair Dr. Vernon Jones, associate dean of the School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences at Langston University, in the October 2020 ARD newsletter. Dr. Reddy “is well experienced, knowledgeable, and a proven leader. ARD will be in very capable hands.” Dr. Reddy said he is already looking toward his new responsibilities, preparing for the next Farm Bill in 2023, promoting the accomplishments of the 1890s through symposiums, and seeing that 1890s’ interests and gains remain protected through legislation while seeking new opportunities in Congress and leading collectively. Dr. Thompson noted that he met Dr.
Reddy while Dr. Reddy was the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies at Alabama A&M. “I’ve known him for 20 years,” Dr. Thompson said. Hence, his assuredness that he has a winner at the ARD helm. This year, Dr. Reddy was also elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Agriculture Future of America, a national program since 2000 that provides premiere professional and personal development programs for college and young professionals in agriculture. Dr. Reddy is recognized both internationally and nationally for his work in agriculture. In 2018, Dr. Reddy was inducted to the TSU Agriculture and Human Sciences Hall of Fame. In 2013, he received the USDA/NIFA Partnership Award for Effective and Efficient Use of Resources, and in 2012, he was recognized by a House Joint Resolution from the Tennessee State Legislature for his outstanding contributions to Tennessee State University. In 2008, he earned the George Washington Carver Agricultural Excellence Award sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development for his impact on research and institution-building efforts in Africa.
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Running Wild Wisely
TSU, Nashville Zoo forge new internship program
Emmanuel Wallace attracts the attention of one of five red-ruffed lemurs, a member of the primate family. Wallace observes one in particular who is demonstrating possible superstitious behavior by scaling a certain part of his enclosure at a specific time of day every day. Photo by Emmanuel Wallace
By JOAN KITE
Because of the pandemic, Cierra Woods works from home in Columbia, South Carolina. As the team’s researcher, she studies similar species at other zoos to determine if those animal suffer from similar ailments or engage in similar behaviors.
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Through a brand-new internship program created by a TSU College of Agriculture administrator and the Nashville Zoo Schools Program Manager, three agriculture students are spending their days researching giraffes, a tiger, and red-ruffed lemurs at the Nashville Zoo. Because of the pandemic, one of the students, Sophomore Cierra Woods, 19, is spearheading the TSU student research team from her home in South Carolina. All of the students said they are loving the experience. “Ultimately I want to get a degree in Animal Science and travel the world and focus on primates,” said Senior student Miette Glover, 21. The red-ruffed lemurs she observes at the Zoo are part of the primate family. Emilio, one of the lemurs, “gallops” upward toward a specific area of its enclosure every day between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m., Glover said. “He skyrockets to the top of his cage three or four times,” Glover said. “I take detailed notes and record how many times he does it.” The third intern, Junior student Emmanuel Wallace, 20, also spends his time observing the animals including the fourth oldest giraffe in captivity, Congo. Congo has arthritic hooves, which compel him to
Miette Glover feeds the Masai giraffes at the Nashville Zoo Giraffe House, where she spends time observing Congo, the fourth oldest giraffe in captivity. Congo suffers from arthritis in his hooves and spends much of his time leaning against trees and other objects that will support him, Glover said.
lean against trees and other stable areas of his enclosure. Wallace notes that despite his ailment, the giraffe has managed to father eight or nine children during his stay at the Zoo. Wallace, Glover, and Woods are able to participate in and get paid to work in this internship program because of the efforts of Dr. De’Etra Young, interim associate dean of Academics and Land-grant Programs, who was seeking to renew a grant from the Dan & Margaret Maddox Fund. Aside from grants supporting education and marginalized youth, the fund also supports wildlife conservation and the College of Agriculture had an existing contact with the Zoo through Dr. Bill Sutton’s work with the Hellbender, an endangered amphibian. One phone call, text, and email led to more and soon Dr. Young was speaking with Thaisa Bell, the School Programs Manager at the Nashville Zoo. Some of the internship program brainstorming occurred over What’sApp while Dr. Young was in Jordan attending a sustainability faculty development seminar conference. Dr. Young is excited about the new partnership with the Nashville Zoo.
“The Zoo provides the College of Agriculture with an additional experiential learning opportunity,” Dr. Young said. “We are constantly seeking to provide opportunities that will adequately prepare our students for the workforce or graduate programs. We would like to thank both the Nashville Zoo and the Dan & Margaret Maddox Fund for this opportunity.” Ms. Bell agreed. “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with one of our neighboring universities,” Ms. Bell said. “We seek to provide opportunities for college students in the animal sciences as they explore possible zoo careers.” The Nashville Zoo Internship Program adds to a growing and attractive list of programs offered by the College of Agriculture for students interested in animal science. The College has added a path to earn a master’s degree in Environmental Sciences, and has partnered with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine to create a program that ensures TSU students can earn the education needed to become a veterinarian — like Wallace, Glover, and Woods who are
considering such a career path. Bell is currently accepting applications for the Summer Semester, which are due by March 1, 2021. Fall Semester applications are due by July 1, 2021. Visit https://www. nashvillezoo.org/jobsinternships for more information. Dr. Young expects the program to grow. This semester, three students were placed. She expects to place five students next semester. She would like to see a TSU graduate working at the Nashville Zoo one day. Meanwhile, the three interns today are collaborating and preparing their research for a presentation this month. Woods has been contacting other zoos to gather information about their giraffes, tigers, and red-ruffed lemurs. She is considering applying for the internship a second time when she is on campus and can actually go to the Zoo. So is Glover, who says she really wants to work with primates in particular. All of the students credit Dr. Young, Keisha Macklin, Dr. Carollyn Boykins, Dr. Richard Browning, and Thaisa Bell, of the Nashville Zoo, for influencing their educational paths.
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Bank ‘Suntrust now Truist’ funds education for four ag students By Joan Kite Four Tennessee State University (TSU) freshmen intent on pursuing careers in agribusiness or food and agriculture science have been named SunTrust now Truist John W. Boyd Scholars. They will have the opportunity for scholarships through their next four years at TSU’s College of Agriculture. John W. Boyd, an attorney, was selected as the scholarship’s namesake. He was one of the first African Americans to serve in the Tennessee General Assembly. The TSU students selected for the scholarships are: Janai Bryant of Nashville, Tennessee; Ashlynn Freeman of Kansas City, Kansas; Aisha Williams of Tuskeegee, Alabama and Jon Wakefield of Bartlett, Tennessee.
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“We are so thankful to SunTrust now Truist for their investment in our agribusiness students through this amazing scholarship opportunity,” said Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture. “This not only helps graduate outstanding minority students in agriculture, but also helps connect them to the banking sector which plays a vital role in farm financing, agricultural commodities trading, and food-related supply chain businesses.” The College’s Agribusiness faculty reviewed the applications and selected the four students. Dr. De’Etra Young, who is the interim associate dean of Academics & Land-grant Programs, helped the young freshmen connect to the mid-COVID-19 university environment, which has been calm compared to other “hotspot” college towns.
From left to right: Aisha Williams poses with her mother, Lennora Perroit. Above: Ashlynn Freeman wants to help those living in food deserts. Above right: Jenai Bryant. Bottom right: Jon Wakefield. All four students are “Suntrust, Now Truist” scholars. Photos courtesy of the students.
Freeman, 18, describes her eventual arrival to TSU as a serendipitous journey. “Agriculture was not discussed in my city,” Freeman said. “Where I was introduced to agriculture in high school was at ag discovery camp at the University of Arkansas. After that, we went to this place called Heifer Ranch, where we were placed in simulation homes that would be the environments in different countries. I got placed in the slums with poisonous animals. I had to scavenge for food. I will forever appreciate the experience.” Today, she recognizes that she knows many who live in urban food deserts. “What I want to do as an agribusiness major is create healthy grocery stores in existing food deserts,” Freeman said. “I also want to be involved in some type of politics to create reform in agriculture. For more information, contact Dr. Young at (615) 963-5123 or email dyoung23@tnstate.edu.
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2020: COVID-19 came calling.
Our scientists answered.
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College receives $1M grant to create national platform for high schoolers learning agriculture at home By Lucas Johnson Tennessee State University has received a $1 million federal grant to lead development of a national platform that allows high school agricultural courses to be taught remotely because of the pandemic. The two-year grant and work, which will target underserved communities, are supported by the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative/Education and Workforce Development Program of the
U.S. Department of Agriculture/National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Officials in TSU’s College of Agriculture say current resources being used for remote learning because of COVID-19 do not include the critical STEM topics of food and agriculture. But they plan to change that by helping to develop eight standardsbased courses in agriculture, food and natural resources for high school students needing online/digital learning options. The project will also establish dual credit options for those who complete the
courses through a university or collegelevel faculty-course review-and-sharing platform. Dr. John Ricketts, professor of agricultural education at TSU, is leading a team of content experts from the university, as well as individuals from several other institutions, including Auburn University, Mississippi State University, and the University of Georgia. “Dr. Ricketts has put together an expert team that will address the concerns of teachers, students, and parents everywhere
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Dr. John Ricketts, a TSU agriculture professor, congratulates a high school student for winning accolades in a science fair hosted by Tennessee State University at its Agricultural Research and Education Center. Photo by Joan Kite
and help students complete their high school education and progress to colleges in a timely manner,” says Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of TSU’s College of Agriculture. Ricketts will recruit the high school teachers who will work with instructional designers and micro-adaptive course developers to roll out the courses. Faculty mentors will assist with content contribution and vet the courses for use at the college level, ensuring they can help students achieve academically at the high school and college level. The eight courses will be loaded onto a national course sharing platform so that students can use them at any institution where agreements have been reached to use the platform, according to officials. “The courses to be developed will help high school students, who have been sent home because of the coronavirus, to graduate on time,” Ricketts said. “The expert vetting of courses developed for dual enrollment will help those same students stay on track in college.” Dr. Tom Byl, a TSU Ag professor, is on Ricketts’ team. He says he’s pleased the project is aimed at underserved
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“Think about all the high school students who don’t know about TSU. This platform allows them to see that TSU has an amazing Ag program. And since they’re already taking high school Ag courses, and have a relationship with TSU professors, then why not go there.”
Kalie Ellis TSU Ag student
communities because less than two percent of current natural-resource scientists are African American.
“I think TSU is well suited to lead the effort and address this lack of diversity in STEM disciplines,” says Byl, who is also a research scientist with the US Geological Survey. “I am proud to be part of that effort and look forward to working with this exceptional team of educators, leaders and scientists.” TSU senior Waymon McNeal, an Ag major with a concentration in environmental sciences, said he wishes such courses were available when he was in high school. “I believe the platform will have a positive impact on those participating,” said McNeal, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “I also think it’s a great way to recruit students” to TSU. Senior Kalie Ellis of Ashland City, Tennessee, agrees. She’s also majoring in Ag at TSU, with a concentration in education. “Think about all the high school students who don’t know about TSU,” Ellis said. “This platform allows them to see that TSU has an amazing Ag program. And since they’re already taking high school Ag courses, and have a relationship with TSU professors, then why not go there.”
Dr. Hui Li prepares to administer a test to David Bates, owner of the Bates Nursery and Garden Center, that will detect COVID-19 antibodies in his bloodstream. The test results will contribute to research about developing herd immunity for small business employees. Photo by Dr. Suping Zhou
‘Safely and Stably’ Professors’ research seeks to protect consumers, nurseries from COVID-19 By Joan Kite Dr. Suping Zhou, a professor who specializes in genetics and the physiology and molecular biology of abiotic stress on plants, recognized the problem instantly. Nurseries and garden centers in rural America, which are considered essential businesses, were under siege as well with the threat of COVID-19. The dilemma lay in the fact that many of these businesses are
outdoors making detection of the virus more challenging as nursery and gardening customers enter the businesses through a variety of pathways. Dr. Zhou, together with agriculture professor Dr. John Ricketts and Dr. Ouyang Lizhi from the Physics department, were awarded a $300,000 grant by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture in September. They have proposed a solution backed by science ANTIBODIES, Continued on page 39
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Something wicked this way came
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Fortunately, the tornado struck at night during Spring Break when the students were gone. This building was where graduate and undergraduate students who work with The Farm’s livestock gathered for meetings, lunches, and other activities. Photo by Emily Hayes
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TSU Professor Tom Byl surveys some of the tornado damage on The Farm. Behind him is the large Pavilion, used to host guest speakers and large events, and the Agricultural Education building, which provided smaller classroom spaces. Photo by Tom Byl
Just before the nation shut down for the pandemic, tornadoes attacked Middle Tennessee, Nashville, and TSU
Something wicked this way came By JOAN KITE The storm supercell arrived rudely late Monday night on March 2, traveling along the Interstate 40 corridor, and splitting into 10 separate tornadoes. By early Tuesday morning, the fifth small, but deadly, tornado, whipped through downtown Nashville, but not before it barreled through TSU’s Agricultural Research and Education Center, the area known as “The Farm” where much research for plant, crop, and livestock sciences is done. Shearing bricks, steel, and glass
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from buildings, barns, silos, and green houses as if they had been made from Styrofoam, the tornado boasted winds of 136 to 165 mph devastating areas of Germantown, East Nashville, Donelson, and Mt. Juliet. Five people were killed in or near Nashville that night and the tornado would become the sixth costliest in U.S. history. Most of TSU’s research farm was destroyed, said the College’s Dean Dr. Chandra Reddy. Students were on Spring Break at the time and no one was at the Farm since
the tornado struck in the dark of night. Dr. Reddy was in Washington, D.C. attending a national meeting when the tornado touched down on “The Farm” in Nashville. He first spoke with Dr. Richard Browning, who oversees the livestock program, and then Dr. Reddy contacted TSU President Dr. Glenda Glover. Dr. Glover toured the damage right after the tornado hit, and Governor Bill Lee visited The Farm the next day morning. Dr. Reddy returned home and traveled to the Farm on Wednesday, March 4, to see the damage firsthand
Pieces of debris from destroyed buildings wrapped themselves around the entrance sign to the Agricultural Research & Education Center. Photo by Emmanuel Freeman
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WICKED, From page 25
with members of the Facilities Management team, faculty, Horace Chase, vice president of TSU’s Business and Finance Department, and an attorney from TSU’s legal office. “It was mind boggling to see and grasp the damage in front of me,” Dr. Reddy recalled. “That was hard to fathom and digest and think about rebuilding them so soon. Since that day, I made a commitment to rebuild those lost facilities as soon as possible and re-establish the Main Campus Agricultural Research and Education Center as the premier center in the State.” Workers are still taking inventory, but university officials have determined that the fifth tornado destroyed seven research hoop houses, 10 green houses, the Agriculture Education building, the Pavilion, the Horse Barn, two silos, a farm shed, the poultry research building, and partially damaged the Research Support building. The damage did not include the numerous experiments, projects, and ongoing research studies underway at the facilities, Dr. Reddy said. Professor Tom Byl surveyed the damage shortly after the tornado hit. “I was stunned,” Byl said. “I was shocked
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“It’s hard to conceive what the cost to human life would’ve been if it had happened at 10 a.m. We were lucky.” Tom Byl Professor and USGS Research Biologist liaison at how precise the damage was.” Byl encountered many of his colleagues amidst the destruction on The Farm. “Meeting (Professor Dharma) Pitchay was also disheartening. He was trying to see what he could salvage from the greenhouses. And he was busy photographing things for his records.” Byl said. “But I knew many of the faculty and staff would be busy cleaning and salvaging rather than running research projects that spring.” “On top of all that, COVID-19 was really starting to take off and we were under
advisories about that,” Byl said. “So, there was no hugging or hand shaking as we met colleagues. Just talking from six feet away and trying to make sense of things and figuring out what we would each do next.” This is not the first time Mother Nature has devastated The Farm. In 2010, floodwaters killed almost half of the 275 goats on the farm at that time and swallowed $500,000 in damages to equipment and property. TSU rebuilt The Farm then, and administration and staff are eager to rebuild it now. The College estimates that it may take up to two years, if not longer, to completely rebuild all that was lost. Eddie Williams, who is the superintendent for the Farm, said restoration is happening. “The cleanup is going just fine,” Williams said. He added that many professors were able to plant research crops of amaranth, green peppers, tomatoes, watermelon, and other vegetables and fruits. If all goes well, the Community Garden may be open to the public in the spring as well, Williams said. Those involved in the clean-up are also WICKED, Continued on page 46
Left: A tractor pulls in starting what will be many days of debris removal and ground clearing. Photo by Tom Byl. Top right: The sun sets over The Farm adding melancholy to the atmosphere of loss and destruction. Photo by Emily Hayes. Bottom right: Volunteers from all over Nashville and Middle Tennessee came out to help clear the wreckage from the Farm. Photo by Emmanuel Freeman, TSU Media Relations.
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U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue visits College, tours labs, inspires students By Joan Kite The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue visited Tennessee State University in mid-October of 2019 to learn about the innovative research happening at the College of Agriculture, meet the students in USDA 1890s student scholars, and motivate students to invest in themselves. Upon his arrival, Perdue had breakfast with TSU President Dr. Glenda Glover, Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture, and eight agriculture students who have received funding through the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. “I did have the privilege of having breakfast with some of your student leaders who are making a mark here at TSU and beyond. Some of these students were in the 1890s Scholars Program,” Perdue said. Following the breakfast, Perdue toured
that labs in the Biotechnology Building stopping to talk to professors and students about their research. Perdue listened carefully and asked pointed questions about some of the research the College is engaged, including a new program which is studying the properties of hemp and CBD oils. “It was great to have him here,” said Dr. Ankit Patras, an associate professor who specializes in food safety. The USDA is a strong partner with the College of Agriculture providing millions of dollars to fund research at TSU. Dr. Reddy expressed his pleasure with the visit and was proud to promote the College’s research. “This is awesome, because USDA supports a number of USDA scholars for us, as well as research and extension facilities at TSU,” said Reddy. “This is an opportunity for the Secretary to see
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue enjoys breakfast with top scholars from the College of Agriculture and select members of the faculty and staff. Photo by Erynne Davis
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“I believe that you folks sitting here could be the next heroes of solutions for the things that really plague us whether they are biotech issues, pharmaceutical issues, antibiotic issues, crop production issues or food safety.” Dr. Sonny Perdue U.S. Secretary of Agriculture firsthand how we are stewarding those resources they are providing.” Many students said they were happy to meet the main man in agriculture. Perdue, who grew up on a farm and became a veterinarian, spoke to an audience of 200 students, staff and faculty about his path to the No. 1 policy position within the Department of Agriculture. “As a student at TSU, you have plenty of reason to take pride in the school you have chosen because literally what’s happening on the ground here and what you all are participating in is the building of knowledge and the building of solutions for our future right here at TSU,” Perdue said.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue shakes hands with students following his formal talk in which he praised the College of Agriculture for its innovative research. Photo by Joan Kite
“I believe that you folks sitting here could be the next heroes of solutions for the things that really plague us whether they are biotech issues or pharmaceutical issues or antibiotic issues or crop production issues or food safety.” Time was given for students to ask questions of the U.S. Secretary. Braxton Simpson, who has strong experience in Student Government and is majoring in Agriculture and Environmental Sciences with a concentration in agribusiness wanted to know how Perdue migrated from veterinary practice to shaping agricultural policy. Using an acronym based on his position
“This is an opportunity for the Secretary to see firsthand how we are stewarding those resources they are providing.” Dr. Chandra Reddy Dean College of Agriculture
and name, the U.S. Secretary told the students to “stand,” be “steadfast,” and “persevere (SSP).” “As you stand, as you’re steadfast to your vision, and persevere for the next cause, I know that you’ll be successful,” Perdue said. “TSU has invested in you, USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) has invested in you, now I want you to invest in yourselves. You are provided an opportunity that many people in this life do not get.” Lucas Johnson II contributed to this story.
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Graduate student and research associate Nicole Witzel collects water samples form tributaries in Tennessee. This research will help her understand the habitats of Hellbender salamanders and the threats they must battle on their home turf. Photo by Joan Kite
Graduates needed in expanding career market
College of Agriculture offers new Master’s Degree program in Environmental Science By Joan Kite The College of Agriculture at Tennessee State University is now accepting students into its newly approved Master of Environmental Science program beginning this Fall semester. “Environmental Science is a much-needed graduate program for Tennesseans and others to train specialists to address the ever-increasing environmental concerns in modern life! As we all know, a healthy environment leads to healthy people and animals,” said Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture. “This Environmental Science program, recently approved by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), is unique in Tennessee. We apply environmental principles to the agroforestry industrial complex which makes up
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about 12 percent of the state’s economy and 10.3 percent of the workforce.” Graduate students can pursue a concentration in Plant Sciences, Natural Resources, or Geospatial Information Sciences, said Dr. Samuel Nahashon, the chair of TSU’s Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Department. This is the only degree program in Tennessee with these specializations and currently, TSU faculty are conducting research in bioenergy, forestry, geospatial sciences, climate change, wildlife biology, soil chemistry, plant sciences, natural resources, and environmental remediation. “We now have an opportunity to train graduate students in these particular areas, which are really in high demand in the state, especially in forestry and natural resources,”
Dr. Nahashon said. In addition, the College of Agriculture is graced with exceptional faculty extremely knowledgeable in these areas. “TSU Ag has 24 exceptionally talented faculty teaching and this degree program is offered both with a thesis and non-thesis option,” Dr. Reddy said. “We also will support 20 graduate research assistantships to qualified students pursuing this program. We have students waiting to get into the program and we are excited to start it this Fall.” Within Tennessee, employment for environmental scientists is expected to increase by 14.5 percent between 2016-26, based on statistics kept by the United States Department of Labor. For those interested, contact Dr. Pokharel at (615) 963-6054 or bpokhare@tnstate.edu.
TSU Extension Agents keep counties covered during COVID pandemic By Jason de Koff Over the last several months, Tennessee State University Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension agents and area specialists have risen to the challenge created by COVID-19. While we have all had to make adjustments in our daily work and home lives, these individuals were able to continue to make impacts across the state. Find out what they have been up to and be sure to reach out to them if there is something that interests you: In the Central Region, Area Nursery Specialist Amy Dismukes (adismuk1@ tnstate.edu), engaged in numerous nursery visits with an estimated economic impact of $520,000. She also continued distributing her “TSU Nursery News to Use” monthly newsletter (https://bit.ly/36sAqMh) to around 500 stakeholders. In Coffee County, Agent Anna Duncan (adunca10@tnstate.edu), implemented a program called, “Small Gardens in Small Spaces”, and 92 percent of the program participants indicated that the program would assist them in generating new ideas. She also engaged 600 youth and Master Gardeners in online gardening programs. In Franklin County, Agent John Ferrell (jferrell@tnstate.edu), noted an increase in phone calls and site visits and had social media posts that reached over 2,400 contacts. The local Farmers Market created a drive-thru option that resulted in more than $30,000 in sales. In Claiborne County, Agent Jennifer Gilbert (jgilber8@Tnstate.edu), handed out 400 face masks to the local community and posted more information on Facebook leading to 20,000 indirect contacts. In Morgan County, Director Jenni Goodrich (jgoodri2@Tnstate.edu), teamed up with their county health department to assist them with their COVID-19 educational outreach which included topics like how to combat stress and COVID-19
prevention. In Rhea County, Agent Thomas Greenlee (jgreenl1@tnstate.edu), provided gardening information to about 250 homeowners each week and developed numerous Facebook Live videos. In Wilson County, Agent Lucas Holman (lholman4@tnstate.edu), developed 17 Facebook Live and YouTube gardening videos that reached thousands of stakeholders. In Lauderdale County, Agent Rachel Howell (rparker12@tnstate.edu), assisted her local office in giving out 200 gardening kits to residents which contained the supplies and information for growing a container plant. In Montgomery County, Agent Karla Kean (kkean1@tnstate.edu), identified 40 percent more site visits and implemented a number of online workshops such as “Slow Your Roll: Adopting Sustainable practices,” and “Home and Garden Lunch and Learn”. In Dyer County, Agent Mary Beth Neal (mneal9@tnstate.edu) reached more than 8,500 producers through news articles, 279 via email, and 50 via text messaging. She also assisted 25 livestock producers with questions on the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. In Knox County, Rylan Thompson (cthomp55@tnstate.edu) assisted in the development of a program that allowed Master Gardeners earn their volunteer hours by signing up to answer home horticulture phone calls and emails from home. In Shelby County, Jo Anne Waterman (jwaterm1@tnstate.edu) created virtual farm tours of four small farms. She also partnered with mobile food pantry drives and provided information to 200 families on how they could grow their own fruits and vegetables. Editor’s Note: All counties are in Tennessee.
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From internships to scholarships and awards in between, our students demonstrate that excellence is a habit.
Nakana’ela Morton Nakana’ela Morton takes a moment to snap a selfie at Harpeth River State Park. Morton, who is a senior earning a degree in agricultural sciences, was awarded second place at the Tennessee Academy of Sciences in 2019 for his research on pigments in algae growing in lowlight. Morton was on a geological adventure at Harpeth River as part of Earth Horizons. The program is offered by Vanderbilt University and TSU, and is funded by the National Science Foundation. For more information visit earthhorizons.org. Photo courtesy of Nakana Morton
Jonathan Alford Jonathan Alford collects water samples out in the wetlands at TSU’s research farm. Alford, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is an agricultural sciences major and a USDA 1890 Scholar. Alford has also served as research assistant in the Dean’s Scholar Program and served for two summers as a research assistant in TSU’s Summer Apprenticeship Program. The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program provides full tuition, employment, employee benefits, fees, books and room and board for up to four years to students who attend a HBCU. For more information, visit https://www.usda.gov/ partnerships/1890NationalScholars for more information. Photo by Tom Byl
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MiKaela Wiley Mikaela Wiley (above), former president of the Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics, provided nutrition information to patients at local clinics in rural Jamaica. Wiley spent nine days in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, as part of the service-learning capstone portion of the course Participatory Research Intervention/ Integration for Service to Mankind (PRISM). Wiley graduated in Spring of 2020 with a bachelors degree in Family and Consumer Sciences concentrating on Food and Nutritional Sciences. Photo courtesy of MiKaela Wiley
Maggie Syversen Maggie Syversen (above) conducts field work at the Agricultural Research and Education Center. Syversen is taking soil respiration measurements with a PP Systems analyzer for the Climate Change lab at TSU. Syversen, who was also a Dean’s Scholar, graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences and a focus on environmental sciences. Photo courtesy of Maggie Syversen.
Aniya Bryant Aniya Bryant (left) earned her bachelor of science degree in Agricultural Science with a concentration in Environmental Science and is now a chemistry teacher at Intrepid College Prep. While at TSU, Bryant served as community chairwoman of Tiger Women in Agriculture, secretary and vice president of the TSU chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS), and earned a seat on the Dean’s List. Photo courtesy of Aniya Bryant.
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Jordan Jennings Jordan Jennings, who earned his master’s degree in Food and Animal Sciences , received the Young Investigator Award while attending the International Veterinary Symposium in Seattle, Washington in August of 2019. Jennings is now a research scientist in the department of pathology, microbiology, and immunology with a focus on HIV-1 infection at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. While in the Department of Agricultural Sciences at TSU, Jennings served as a graduate research assistant studying the regulation of interferon proteins during viral infection. Photo courtesy of Jordan Jennings.
Braxton Simpson Social media influencer and top student Braxton Simpson has a long list of accomplishments she has gathered during her education at TSU. She is a Dean’s Scholar, an active participant in the Agriculture Future of America Leaders Conference, a J.P. Morgan Scholar, and a recipient of the Monsanto Scholarship. She has served as a student trustee on TSU’s Board of Trustees and serves as president of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She currently works as the Digital Communications Manager at Impact Youth Outreach. Photo courtesy of Braxton Simpson
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Shakarah Nelson
Shakarah Nelson (left), a Dean’s Scholar, earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences with a focus on Environmental Science. In 2020, Nelson’s work at TSU was featured in Nashville Public Television’s virtual event “The Age of Nature.” Nelson was an active participant in the Earth Horizons Program, a partnership between Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University that encourages the recruitment, training and retention of minority geoscience students. Photo by Joan Kite
Christopher Anuo TSU alumni Christopher Anuo (right) stands in front of his award-winning research presentation on soil chemistry. Anuo, a native of Nigeria, obtained a master’s degree in Environmental Soil Chemistry at TSU and is now serving as a research assistant in the doctoral program of Environmental Chemistry at the University of NebraskaLincoln. Photo courtesy of Christopher Anuo.
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Professor Jason de Koff works with a Tennessee farmer who is learning how to use a drone as a modern helper on her farm. Photo courtesy of Jason de Koff
TSU Drone Program covers more ground amid pandemic By Jason de Koff The Tennessee State University Drone Program originated from a USDA-NIFA grant awarded to Dr. Jason de Koff in 2018. One of the objectives of TSU’s drone program focuses on teaching farmers about how they can use drones in agriculture. Drones can save time by not having to drive or walk a field to scout crops and can help identify issues faster by being able to cover more ground. Some have even used drones to show insurance adjusters where fields have been damaged by inclement weather. In 2020, Dr. de Koff had the opportunity
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to provide hands-on training to farmers in seven counties in Tennessee before the pandemic began. At these workshops, farmers learned about things such as different uses for drones in agriculture, different drone options and costs, and federal regulations. They also had the opportunity to testdrive a Phantom 4 drone. “I think farmers really get a sense of the things they can do once they get their hands on one and see how easy they are to use,” de Koff said. “Some of the farmers were unsure about them at first because
they were concerned they might crash them.” Evaluations of the workshops found that the majority of respondents felt that drones were not as difficult to fly as they originally thought and they had an increased interest in purchasing a drone within the next two years as a result of the program. Dr. de Koff, along with his graduate student Priya Saini, have also been involved in writing articles and fact sheets that pertain to using drones in agriculture. One article was a beginner’s guide to drones that was published by Future Farming (https://
www.futurefarming.com/Machinery/ Articles/2020/4/Beginners-guide-toagricultural-drones-569413E/) and another was about using drones with cattle and was published by Dairy Global (https:// www.dairyglobal.net/Smart-farming/ Articles/2020/7/Drones-and-the-dairycows-Managing-livestock-618713E/). Dr. de Koff was also interviewed by the Farm Journal for an article about how to maximize drone return-on-investment on the farm (https://www.agweb.com/article/ qa-maximize-drone-roi-your-farm). For most drones used in agriculture, a pilot would need to be FAA certified. The TSU Drone Program provides this certification training through an on-theground class and, in light of the recent pandemic, as an online course. Dr. de Koff implemented this training in 2020 with extension and research staff at the University of Kentucky, the University of Georgia, and the American Society of Agronomy. He also trained high school teachers in Tennessee using his curriculum to allow them to implement a new course on using drones in agriculture developed by the Tennessee Department of Education. Evaluations of his trainings found that 94 percent of the university respondents were more likely to get their certification and 93 percent of the teacher respondents felt more confident about teaching students. ANTIBODIES, Continued from page 23
that will help protect these smaller businesses as planting season arrives. Zhou and her team of scientists are working with Bates Nursery and Garden Center in Nashville, Pleasant View Nursery and Florists and Bobby’s Plants and Produce in Pleasant View, Tennessee, and Mary’s Gardens in Clarksville, Tennessee, to establish a discreet method to measure customer’s body temperatures. Since one of the early signs of the virus reveals itself as a fever in the body, Dr. Zhou proposed that thermal imaging systems used in nurseries and garden centers to detect COVID-19 need to be re-calibrated to contend with influences from the outdoor environment such as wind, cold, or excessive heat. TSU scientists proposed to create a thermal imaging station that could detect if a customer had a fever upon entering the
Tennessee farmers had the opportunity to test-drive a Phantom 4 drone in the initial TSU Drone Programs that were offered in seven counties. Photo courtesy of Jason de Koff
outdoor business. If a customer had a fever, that person would be discreetly re-directed to a different zone in the store to shop for their needs. Store associates would be on hand to help those customers find what they needed. In the process, Dr. Zhou’s team will help educate owners about federally mandated safe business practices during a pandemic including social distancing rules and the wearing of masks and gloves. Nurseries and garden centers could redesign and reorganize the presentation of their goods so that customers could freely walk between trees and plants and maintain social distancing from other customers. “Products from this project will increase the resilience of small business. The mitigation strategies developed in this project can be integrated into various agricultural production and marketing systems,” Dr. Zhou wrote.
Dr. Zhou’s team has been taking blood samples from nursery employees to determine if they have been exposed to COVID-19. The blood tests look for antibodies from the virus in the blood. Those employees who have had the virus and have developed antibodies can work in teams to help customers who did not pass the initial temperature check when they walked in. This would allow business owners to use herd immunity to its advantage. The information gathered from the research will be transformed into educational kits delivered to other businesses in Tennessee and throughout the United States. This research is especially crucial since COVID-19 vaccines have become available. By spring, shoppers will consist of the vaccinated, the unvaccinated, and those who have survived COVID-19.
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Bloom where you are planted
Success stories from the College of Agriculture
Professor earns honors for work in organic farming Dr. Dilip Nandwani, a professor who specializes in organic farming and its progressive practices, has been honored for his research and work at the College. Dr. Nandwani’s work on “Vertical Farming Systems” was selected for the 2020 NUEL 1890 Program Innovator Award by the National Urban Extension Leaders. Dr. Nandwani presented his work and its impact on the local community at the Southern Region NUEL Network Virtual Hangout and Awards last August. In addition, Dr. Nandwani was named 2020 Outstanding International Horticulturist by the American Society for Horticultural Science. The pandemic nor the tornado halted Dr. Nandwani’s research in the organic portion of the Agricultural Research and Education Center. He continued to work with his graduate students planting cantaloupes and watermelons during the summer. Dr. Nandwani has been at the College of Agriculture since 2014. Since then, he has written and published four books
Dr. Dilip Nandwani talks to the public about organic farming during the Small Farm Expo. Photo by Joan Kite
on organic farming, urban horticulture, sustainable horticultural systems, and genetic diversity in horticultural plants.
He currently teaches the classes Principles of Organic Agriculture, Sustainable Crop Production, and Principles of Crop Science.
Early Learning Center thrives despite virus The Tennessee State University Early Learning Center Laboratory, an on-campus daycare for the community, opened on its regular schedule adding this year the practice of social distancing while following all the recommended precautions to keep children safe, said Director Akela Barnett. It was important to continue to provide the engaging, comprehensive, researchbased curriculum that allow children to explore and burst forth in their most natural habitat through play-based learning and sensory discovery, Barnett said. “We realize during these unprecedented times, families were seeking the best, safe, LEARNING, Continued on page 45
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Children learn about numbers in one of the many group activities at the Early Learning Center.
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Ag Professors bring hemp, legume expertise to campus
Dr. Emmanuel Omondi
Dr. Sonali Roy
Two new faculty members join the College this year bringing with them expertise about molecular genetics in legumes and industrial hemp crop production. Dr. Emmanuel C. Omondi brings with him extensive experience in the industrial hemp industry. He served as principal investigator on a USDA and National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative between the Rodale Institute and Purdue University to assess industrial hemp as a potential crop for organic farmers. Originally from Kenya, Africa, Dr. Omondi’s quest for knowledge brought him to the University of Wyoming, where he earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in Agronomy. He has taught both here in the United States and coordinated and taught study abroad courses in Kenya for the University of Wyoming.
to providing the best childcare and individualized early learning experience and healthy early education and childcare for children ages 3 to 5-years-old and offers possible for their children,” Barnett said. affordable, full-time educational childcare The ELC Laboratory continues to for TSU faculty, staff, and families within serve its stakeholders with excellence by the Nashville community. practicing extra safety precautions during The Center passed the annual TN drop-off and pick-up times and throughout Department of Human Services licensure the day. The health and safety of the and classroom assessment review in children continues to be the Center’s highest October. priority. Under Barnett’s leadership, the center Located in the Department of Human was awarded more than $16,000 from Sciences, the TSU Early Learning Center a Childcare Tennessee grant to support Laboratory provides experiential and enrichment programs starting in Spring educational opportunities for students of 2021. It was also awarded a Support in Human Sciences courses and student and Enhancement grant to support a new teachers throughout the year. lending library. The ELC laboratory is committed
Dr. Sonali Roy, a native of India, earned her doctoral degree at the John Innes Centre in Norwich, a city about 100 miles northeast of London, England. A post-doctoral fellowship offered by the National Science Foundation brought her to the Noble Research Institute in Ardmore, Oklahoma, where she has been conducting genome-wide analyses of small signaling peptides in Medicago truncatula with an emphasis on macro-nutrient regulation of root and nodule development. Aside from being a scientist and an educator, Dr. Roy is a talented communicator having served as an assistant features editor for The Plant Cell and engaging in scientific outreach through Twitter as @MedicagoNews, where she provides online information about Medicago research. Both professors are setting in to their new labs and offices and will soon be in a classroom teaching students in the TSU College of Agriculture.
LEARNING, Continued from page 44
Story time for the young participants in the Early Learning Center.
Winter 2020 | AgLINK
41
Bloom where you are planted
Success stories from the College of Agriculture
Grad student earns AAI Young Investigator Award The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) presented TSU graduate student Jordan Jennings with the AAI Young Investigator Award at the International Veterinary Immunology Symposium this summer in Seattle, Washington. Jennings, 26, of Florence, Alabama was recognized for his work in viral immunology using pig cells. With guidance from Dr. Yongming Sang, a TSU associate professor of animal genomics and immunology, Jennings published results from his research project “Porcine Interfero-ω Subtype: Differential Expression and Superior Antiviral Activity.” “We infect the cell lines with a particular virus and let the virus cause a viral infection,”
Jennings said. Jennings then studies the pig’s immune response to the virus. “The virus is the number one cause of swine industry loss,” he said. Jennings, who will graduate in May of 2020, said he ultimately wants to work in the biomedical field conducting research. “In high school, I thought I wanted to go to med school or do research. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology. I took a job in a hospital and realized it was not for me.” Jennings speaks highly of his mentor, Dr. Sang. “I met with him and looked at the lab. He’s easy to talk to, very approachable, easy to ask questions,” Jennings said. Jordan Jennings
Sharon Suggs joins Dept. of Human Sciences full time Longtime adjunct TSU professor Sharon Suggs has joined the faculty of the Department of Human Sciences full time bringing with her years of experience in nutrition and food systems management. Suggs served as a field manager for the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, where she monitored and evaluated cafeteria programs by reviewing the cafeterias, food quality, and sanitation. She also ensured reports and records complied with state regulations. She also has hands-on experience managing fast food restaurants including McDonald’s,
Hardees, and New Orleans Famous Fried Chicken. “Teaching is more than a profession,” Suggs said. “It’s a willingness to share, listen and learn from others. I trust and hope students will see me first as a person who cares, furthermore, a person that wants to share the importance of education, communication, and opportunities. There is no limitation in what they can achieve, for they have already taken the first step by coming to TSU.” “And together we (the faculty and staff) will prepare them for many more,” she said.
Sharon Suggs
Professor wins 2019 Tony Kleese Award from The People’s Seed
Matthew Blair
42 AgLINK | Winter 2020 46 AgLINK | Fall 2019
The People’s Seed, a new organization whose mission is to redesign funding and decision making systems for seed and plant development, has awarded Research Associate Professor Dr. Matthew Blair with the 2019 Tony Kleese Award. Dr. Blair, who is often referred to as the “Bean Man” on campus, is a plant breeder ad molecular geneticist who researches amaranth, cow peas (black-eyed peas), common and mung beans. The Tony Kleese Award includes a cash award of $2,000. “The board was absolutely impressed with the scope and focus of your work as it pertains to our mission of creating a fair, open and
sustainability-focused seed and plant breeding system for all,” Jacob Rutz, executive director of The People’s Seed, wrote. “I wish to express my sincere thanks,” Blair said. “The prize award will serve to increase awareness about the importance of new crops and new varieties and I commit to that goal together with The People’s Seed.” Dr. Blair earned his Ph.D. in plant breeding at Cornell University. He has been at TSU since June of 2013. You can learn more about The People’s Seed at thepeopleseed.org.
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Outstanding student gains internship with Tennessee Dept. of Ag Monica Henry-Smith, one of the College’s Outstanding Master’s Student specializing in public health microbiology, has earned an internship with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Henry-Smith, who earned her bachelor’s degree in Food Science at Alabama A&M, has been working with Assistant Professor Dr. Aliyar Fouladkhah at TSU. She is now preparing for the Medical Laboratory Technician certification exam and is Left: Monica HenrySmith works in the Public Health Microbiology Laboratory. Below: Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College, presents Monica Henry-Smith with the Outstanding Master’s Student Award as she holds her infant son. Photos by Joan Kite
“Food science and public health go hand-in-hand with our everyday lives.” Monica Henry Smith Outstanding Master’s Student interested in examining new food safety procedures to implement for the state. “The foods that we consume determine the lifestyle that we live, as well as the environment that we are in, which influences what we eat. Food science and public health go hand-in-hand with our everyday lives,” Henry-Smith said. Henry-Smith has placed first in a poster presentation competition at the second annual meeting of the Tennessee Institute of Food Technologists in Nashville. She also took first place in the 2018 Tennessee Academy of Science Oral competitions and has already published one first-name, peerreviewed article in the open access journal titled “Microorganisms.” During her studies, Henry-Smith gave birth to her son and despite being a new mom, she was able to attend classes regularly.
Winter 2020 | AgLINK 43 Fall 2020 | AgLINK 47
Bloom where you are planted
Success stories from the College of Agriculture
Students intern to learn and earn One of the hallmarks of pursuing agriculture studies at Tennessee State University is the opportunity to apply the knowledge one is acquiring in the actual workforce. Students have the opportunity to begin internships as early as their first year in the College of Agriculture and faculty and staff encourage them to continue to pursue them until they enter the workforce. Below is a list of students and the internships they pursued. Daiva Wilson United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Colchester, Vermont
Jourdan Huntley Purdue University Vet-Up Student Intern West Lafayette, Indiana
Rodney Blackwell United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Williamsburg, Iowa
Alyssa Hobbs HCA Healthcare Parallon Intern Nashville, Tennessee
Kennedye Miller Purdue University Vet-Up Student Intern West Lafayette, Indiana
Morgan Finley University of Alabama Dietetic Internship Birmingham, Alabama
Braxton Simpson Bayer Crop Sciences Customer Care/Crop Protection St. Louis, Missouri
Jonathan Alford Mammoth Cave National Park Park Intern - Algae Technician Mammoth Cave, Kentucky
Rana Hantouli University of Tennessee at Martin Dietetic Internship Martin, Tennessee
Akiliyah Sumlin Farm Credit Mid-America Agricultural Intern Lexington, Kentucky
Adriana Martin United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Paw Paw, Michigan
Casmen Jackson University of Tennessee Extension Extension Intern
Waymon McNeal United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Appleton, Wisconsin
Alexis Askew Tennessee State University College of Agriculture Research Intern Nashville, Tennessee
Kristen Day United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Caldwell, Texas
Jahnari Edwards Tennessee Lottery Sales Intern - Scientific Games Nashville, Tennessee
Kayla Carney Dupont Environmental Education Center Delaware Nature Society Wilmington, Deleware
Ryan Smith Kellogg Procurement Intern Battle Creek, Michigan
Grayson Ross Oakwood University Dietetic Internship Huntsville, Alabama Takeya Ball Capitol Area Food Bank Washington, D.C. TeeSharia Jackson Summer Apprenticeship Program Tennessee State University College of Agriculture Nashville, Tennessee
INTERNSHIPS, Continued page 45
44 AgLINK | Winter 2020 48 AgLINK | Fall 2020
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Honor Roll Agriculture Future of America Leaders Conference, Kansas City, KS Amaris Daniels Kristin Day Jahnari Edwards Kalie Ellis Braxton Simpson Ryan Smith Akiliyah Sumlin Emmanuel Wallace Emoni White Agriculture Future of America Food Institute, Chicago, IL Jahnari Edwards Ryan Smith Agriculture Future of America Technology Institute, Orlando, FL Jahnari Edwards Daiva Wilson Agriculture Future of America Policy Institute, Washington, DC Jahnari Edwards Braxton Simpson Ryan Smith Daiva Wilson Agriculture Future of America Animal Institute, Kansas City, KS Jourdon Huntley 1890 Environmental Justice Academy Scholar Kristin Day Agriculture Future of America and BASF Scholarship ($1600) Amaris Daniels Braxton Simpson Purdue University Graduate Diversity Scholars Program CheKenna Fletcher Micah Blake-Smith
James E. Tatum Scholarship – National Organization of Professional Black NRCS Employees Akiliyah Sumlin 1890 Costa Rica Study Abroad Fellows Brittaney Hogan Steve Osborne Kristen Stigger Daiva Wilson Tennessee Council of Cooperatives Scholarship Aniya Bryant Kalie Ellies Nakana Morton Farm Credit College Leaders Program and Scholarship ($5,000) Braxton Simpson Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Kristin Day, University Ambassador Ryan Smith, Altria Scholar Monsanto Scholarship & J.P. Morgan Scholar Braxton Simpson Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. International Membership Intake Process Committee Member Braxton Simpson National Teach Ag Campaign Future Agriscience Teacher Fellow Shasta Charlton Student Government Association 2019-2020 Academic Year Ryan Smith, Executive Vice President
INTERNSHIPS, Continued from page 44
Adam Traore Summer Apprenticeship Program Tennessee State University College of Agriculture Nashville, Tennessee Emily Boone University of Wyoming 4-H Intern Grey Bull County Wyoming
Daniel Shaw Cheekwood Botanical Garden Agricultural Intern Nashville, Tennessee
Taylor Pikes Tennessee State University Drone Youth Program Internship Nashville, Tennessee
Alexius Dingle Mammoth Cave National Park Park Intern - Algae Technician Mammoth Cave, Kentucky
Kalie Ellis Tennessee State University Drone Youth Program Internship Nashville, Tennessee
Jacqueline Johnson Tennessee State University Drone Youth Program Internship Nashville, Tennessee
Ashley Warner Tennessee State University Extension Shelby County Memphis, Tennessee
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TSU AGRICULTURE ALUMNI ORGANIZATION’S PURPOSE The purpose of the TSU Agriculture Alumni Organization shall be: • to create and maintain high standards in the life of our alumni; • to perpetuate constructive alumni relationships; • to support recruiting efforts to obtain more high quality students in the Food and Agricultural Sciences; • to assist Agriculture students financially in areas where there may be a shortage of funds that may cause one to drop out of school; • to address, coordinate, and develop action strategies on matters of mutual concern to the membership; and • to serve as the conduit for such action plans as may be developed.
ALUMNI, From page 8
sumer sciences,” Jackson said. The organization has named officers and a meeting is being planned for the near future, Reaves said. More than 25 years ago years at a meeting of the National Organization of Professional Black Soil Conservation Service Employees, now known as the Natural Resource Conservation Service Employees (NOPBNRCSE), a large number of alumni from TSU’s College of Agriculture attended a discussion that resulted in the formation of the Agriculture Alumni Organization. During the discussion, alumni recognized that there was a need to coordinate and cooperate in several activities, and identified certain areas of need that could be best realized by a formal organization. “We are encouraging all agriculture alumni to join us as we update our purpose and make plans to assist the College of Agriculture and the Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences with its activities,” Hayslett said. “One of the many things we would like is to have an official representative from the alumni organization serving on the recently WICKED, From page 28
searching for the remnants of Professor Bill Sutton’s canoe, which he used to traverse the wetlands along the Cumberland River. Williams said he thinks he found a piece of it. Sutton has accepted that his canoe got sucked up by the tornado. Amidst the
46 AgLINK | Winter 2020
College of Agriculture alumni help themselves to eggs, potatoes, pancakes, fruit and other breakfast fare. Photo by Dr. Dharma Pitchay
formed Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Advisory Committee.”
For more information, please contact President Hugh Jackson at (615) 243-2808 or email him at retiredtwo@comcast.net.
disaster, there is some frivolity. But the seriousness of the tornado has university officials revising plans in the event of another. “Looking at the debris makes you wonder where we would’ve taken cover if this tornado had occurred during regular working hours,” Byl said. “Cinder block
buildings were torn down, while a nearby trailer or shed were left standing. Debris would have been flying through the air as evidenced by the metal siding thrown all over the place. It’s hard to conceive what the cost to human life would’ve been if it had happened at 10 a.m.” “We were lucky.”
VET, From page 4
dean of TSU’s College of Agriculture. Dr. Reddy was instrumental in finalizing the agreement. “It will help increase minorities in the veterinary profession and help us prepare our students appropriately for veterinary college. Health care for pets is a huge demand in society today. Many of our students are interested in the veterinary profession and we welcome this opportunity to prepare and place students in this competitive and demanding field.” The agreement between the universities began in 2016 when Dr. Jones, a UT-CVM professor of Avian and Zoological Medicine, came to TSU to speak to agriculture students in the student organization Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS). Dr. James P. Thompson, the dean of UT-CVM, sent Dr. Jones with the mission to form an agreement with TSU to recruit its students into UT’s vet college. There, Dr. Jones met Dr. De’Etra Young, the MANRRS advisor who works closely with TSU’s top students. For the next four years, Dr. Jones and Dr. Young worked on the MOU, which was signed in June of 2020. “We are excited to enter this new partnership with UT-CVM,” said Dr. Young, who is now interim associate dean of Academics and Land-grant Programs at the College. “We are increasing our efforts to provide experiential learning and hands-on experiences to prepare our students for graduate studies or the workforce.
TSU Junior Emmanuel Wallace bottle feeds a young goat at the College’s Agricultural Research and Education Center. Wallace is an agriculture major concentrating on Food and Animal Sciences with a Pre-Vet focus. Photo courtesy of Emmanuel Wallace
This new arrangement will assist us in preparing our students appropriately for veterinary school.” Assistant Professor Dr. Carollyn Boykins-Winrow teaches animal science classes at TSU and she said she will be serving as mentor to the students selected for the program. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for the students,” Dr. Boykins-Winrow said. “The students will know what to expect from UT and UT will know the preparation the students went through to get there.” Settling into her dorm room on TSU’s campus is aspiring veterinarian Angelique Hamilton. She knows very little about the new program, but she knows she wants in. And when Hamilton wants something, she tends to get it. In middle school, her grades
weren’t so great, she said. So, she buckled down and graduated this year as valedictorian from Trezevant High School in Memphis. “I hate it when I get a B,” Hamilton said. “I will go to the teacher and ask if there is anything I can do to bring my grade up.” Pursuing her dreams comes at a price. Hamilton said she has had to leave behind her dog of 10 years — a Chihuahua-mix named Echo. Dogs are not allowed in the dorms. But Hamilton brings to campus a determination and cando spirit necessary for TSU’s and UT-CVM Veterinary Professional Enhancement Program. For more information about the program, contact Dr. Young at (615) 963-5123 or email dyoung23@ tnstate.edu.
Winter 2020 | AgLINK 47
www.tnstate.edu/agriculture
Awarding financial support to outstanding students. M.S. in Environmental Sciences
B.S. in Agricultural Sciences • • • • •
Agribusiness Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communications Biotechnology Environmental Sciences Food and Animal Sciences
M.S. in Food and Animal Sciences
B.S. in Family & Consumer Sciences • • •
M.S. in Agricultural Sciences • • • •
Agribusiness Management & Analysis Agricultural Education Biotechnology Food Supply Chain Management
Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
Child Development & Family Studies Fashion Merchandising Food and Nutritional Sciences * Dietetics * Food Systems Management
• • • •
Environmental Sciences Biotechnology Food and Animal Sciences Cell and Molecular Biology
Dean’s Scholars
High Achievers
Leadership Fellows
Awards, ranging from $2,600 to $3,900 per semester, are paid annually and presented to students who demonstrate academic excellence.
Designed for community college graduates, this program assists students through a personalized work-aid/ internship program.
A unique program tailored to students who actively participate in student chapters of professional agricultural, family or human science organizations.
Graduate Research Assistantships also available
Contact Outreach Counselor Keisha Macklin at (615) 963-6520 or email kmacklin@tnstate.edu
48 AgLINK | Winter 2020
Time to apply for the Farm Bill Scholarship High school, community college, and undergraduate students have until April 15, 2021 to apply for the Tennessee State University 1890 Farm Bill Scholarship Program. The program provides scholarships that support recruiting, engaging, retaining, mentoring and training of undergraduate students pursuing the following areas in Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture: Agribusiness, Agriculture Leadership, Education and Communication (ALEC), Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences, Food and Animal Sciences, and Food and Nutritional Sciences (Dietetics). The scholarships encourage outstanding students at 1890 institutions to pursue and complete baccalaureate degrees in the food and agricultural sciences and related fields that will lead to a highly-skilled food and agricultural systems workforce.
The program is open to high school seniors, currently enrolled or college transfer students who demonstrate academic excellence, extraordinary leadership traits, and a commitment to community service. The scholarship is highly competitive and provides full tuition and room and
board for up to four years to selected students accepted or already enrolled in the College of Agriculture at Tennessee State University. For more information about the College of Agriculture 1890 Farm Bill Scholars Program, contact Dr. De’Etra Young, Interim Associate Dean and Associate Professor, at (615) 963-5213 or email dyoung23@tnstate.edu. ****** This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Scholarships for Students at 1890 Institutions Program [202038430-31299]. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Calendar of Events January 2021
February 2021
01 | Holiday Break & Happy New Year 18 | MLK Day Observed 19 | TSU re-opens 8 a.m. 31 | Deadline for USDA/ 1890 National Scholars Program
April 2021 30 | Graduate Commencement Ceremony / 5 p.m. Gentry Complex
March 2021 16 | Nashville New Farmer Academy begins 18 & 19 | Spring Break 23 | National Ag Day
May 2021
June 2021
01 | Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony / 8 a.m. Hale Stadium 31 | Memorial Day
Winter 2020 | AgLINK 49
AgLINK Vol. 8, Issue 1 WINTER 2020
Tennessee State University College of Agriculture 3500 John A. Merritt Blvd. Nashville, TN 37209
Tennessee State University College of Agriculture (615) 963-7561 www.tnstate.edu/agriculture Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean & Director of Research Administrator of Extension Joan Kite, AgLINK Editor
TSU - SU-21-095(B)-12b-13500 - Tennessee State University does not discriminate against students, employees, or applicants for admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs and activities sponsored by Tennessee State University. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Razel Jones, Office of Equity and Inclusion, rjone105@tnstate.edu, 3500 John Merritt Blvd., General Services Building, Second Floor, Nashville, TN 37209, 615-963-7435. The Tennessee State University policy on nondiscrimination can be found at www.tnstate.edu/nondiscrimination.
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