Extension Today

In Cooperative Extension, when we think of impacts, we usually think of specialists or agents and the people they serve. Yet many people quietly work behind the scenes, and their work is just as meaningful. In some cases, without their help, there would be no program impacts. I am referring to people like Print Shop Manager James Childress.

Childress is the only staff member who has worked under all five 1890 administrators for Alabama Extension at Alabama A&M University. For 51 years, he has diligently worked to ensure that staff have the printed resources they need to serve the people of Alabama. From the printing presses of the 1970s to digital copiers of the 21st century, he has seen the evolution of Extension programming. In addition, Childress is an ordained pastor, which uniquely qualifies him to serve as the resident therapist.

Print shop

The first 1890 administrator, Dr. James I. Dawson, established the print shop that remains a valuable in-house resource, particularly when considering the costs to print in color today. Although reproduced materials are just as important as in the 1970s, gone are the long work hours from 8 a.m. to midnight. Gone are the ink-covered hands and the standing in line to collate publications and other hard-copy documents. Today, he can program a copier to collate and staple items in minutes or just a few hours.

To the next generation to come, Childress shares these words, "Dedicate yourself to your line of work, and it will pay off in the long run!"

In recognition of the significant contributions of Black Americans, this month is dedicated to the preservation of our rich history and the reinforcement of hope. The Cooperative Extension 4-H Department at Delaware State University (DSU) has actively pursued initiatives aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of Black history throughout the year.

February, which is recognized as Black History Month, is an important opportunity for outreach, particularly aimed at youths from underserved and unserved populations, as well as increasingly acknowledged “non-traditional” groups. This initiative aims to provide educational experiences that deliver thorough lessons on the principles and legacy of Black history.

The Negro National Anthem resonates as a rallying cry for unity, equality and justice, inspiring youths to become proactive leaders in innovative ways. Collectively, these young individuals have demonstrated their commitment to community service by creating a walk-through mobile poster gallery highlighting prominent Black innovators, educators, musicians, authors and contemporary achievers.

Collaboration has been the cornerstone of DSU's efforts, fostering a learning environment where youths can engage with one another. For the 2025 celebration, participants reflected on the ethos encapsulated in John Lewis’ quote, “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble and help redeem the soul of America.” In Delaware, various activities culminated at the end of the month to honor this important history.

Through a series of carefully planned events, DSU seeks to foster a richer understanding and appreciation of Black history and the significant contributions it has made to the fabric of American culture.

A.A. Turner was a trailblazing African American agricultural Extension agent in Florida, serving from 1917 to 1929. He played a crucial role in the development of Black agricultural education and outreach programs, particularly through the Cooperative Extension Service. His work focused on improving farming techniques, increasing agricultural productivity and enhancing the livelihoods of African American farmers across the state.

Turner was particularly influential in youth development programs, establishing early versions of what would become 4-H Clubs for African American children. These programs provided hands-on agricultural education, leadership skills and opportunities for young Black students to engage in farming and homemaking activities.

His dedication to agricultural Extension work was evident in his extensive travel — logging more than 13,101 miles in a single year — to conduct more than 650 field visits. During these visits, he provided technical assistance, demonstrations and education to farmers on best practices in crop cultivation, livestock management and soil conservation.

Despite the racial barriers of the time, Turner's work significantly contributed to the advancement of African American farmers in Florida, fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency within rural Black communities. His legacy paved the way for future generations of Black agricultural professionals and Extension agents.

Information courtesy of https://exhibits.uflib.ufl.edu.

Fort Valley State University’s Cooperative Extension Program collaborated with the National Black Growers Council (NBGC) for Model Farm Field Day in 2024. The event included a field trip to James Farms in Montezuma, Georgia, and presentations at the Georgia Agricenter in Perry, Georgia.

The mission of the NBGC is to assist Black farmers, particularly those involved with row crops, in improving their productivity, sustainability and efficiency. Dr. Loston Rowe, interim executive director for the NBGC, said farmers get a chance to collaborate with land-grant universities (LGU), especially 1890 LGUs like FVSU, to conduct research on their farms and view new technologies.

Furthermore, Rowe said when farmers partner with LGUs and the NBGC in research and outreach efforts, they receive access to previously inaccessible technologies. They also get a chance to meet and network with fellow Black farmers sharing similar concerns.

“Sustainability is in our mission, and that means long-term viability for Black farmers, so we have a lot of discussions that are beyond just production. We talk about how to market their crops in a more effective way, some of the legalities of managing their land, whether its estate planning or heirs’ property,” Rowe said.

Warren James, owner of James Farms in Montezuma, Georgia, said the program was a rousing success. He said he was very appreciative of FVSU’s Extension’s presence at the field day and was pleased with the number of young people present at the event.

For more information about the NBGC, visit https://bit.ly/3TscSAt.

In July 2022, 13 counties in Eastern Kentucky experienced a series of devastating thunderstorms that brought overwhelming amounts of rain and flooding, resulting in approximately 40 deaths and displacing thousands. Years later, survivors are still dealing with the harrowing effects of the floods, with many having lost family members, homes, livelihoods and their close-knit communities.

Seeing a major need to address the mental trauma associated with the devastation, Alethea Bernard, MHA, MPA, and co-principal investigators Gill Finley Jr., MPA, and Chinonso Etumnu, Ph.D., have led efforts to bring mental health resources to survivors. Outreach included mental health workshops focused on alleviating negative stigmas surrounding mental health, helping survivors identify stress responses within themselves and others, sharing healthy coping skills and more. Additionally, training and presentations to health care professionals, policymakers, community leaders and others have helped develop more resiliency and preparedness for future environmental disasters.

“We’ve had so many success stories…One individual, he actually has substance use disorder, and he talked about how the information not only helped him deal with the disaster, but it also helped him to understand…his addiction… and how that information is knowledge that he can share,” said Bernard. “[We realize] that this is about planting seeds. We’re not going to be able to get to everybody, but if we can plant seeds that they can share with each other, that’s also a big plus.”

This project was made possible through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Agriculture and Food Research Initiative. Notably, KSU is the first historically Black university to receive this award.

For more than two decades, Willard Tillman has steadfastly advocated for underserved farmers, working to elevate their voices and secure resources for small-scale agricultural communities. As executive director of the Oklahoma Black Historical Research Project Inc.(OBHRPI), he has led efforts to document and preserve Black farming history while implementing programs that support underserved farmers.

His tenure as special projects coordinator at the Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture allowed him to work directly with small-scale producers, advocating for policies that enhance small-farm sustainability and economic wealth. Tillman also played a pivotal role in renewable energy initiatives, serving as vice chair of the Oklahoma Renewable Energy Council.

One of Tillman’s most impactful projects was overseeing the Plasticulture Project, introducing innovative farming techniques to underserved farmers. He also organized the Oklahoma Small Farms Conference for 25 years, fostering vital conversations on agricultural challenges and solutions.

Tillman’s influence extends nationally through his work with the Rural Coalition, where he continues to push for policies benefiting small farmers. His tireless advocacy has earned him prestigious honors, including the State Humanitarian Award and Langston University’s Partners Appreciation Award. Through outreach, policy development and unwavering commitment, he has cemented his legacy as a champion for underserved and small-scale rural farmers.

"Our farmers are the backbone of our communities. When we invest in them, we’re not just supporting agriculture — we’re building a future of sustainability and prosperity for generations to come," Tillman said.

For more information, visit http://www.obhrpi.org/Contact_OBHRPI.html#.

The late Arthur P. Bell set a high standard for those treading his path.

“Dr. Bell is a pioneer, a legend,” said Antoine Alston, associate dean for academics of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at North Carolina A&T State University.

“He represented, to me, what it means to be an African American scholar and man," said Alston, who studied under Bell.

Bell, a former chair of A&T’s Department of Agricultural Education and professor emeritus, died Oct. 13, 2024. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree with honors in agriculture from A&T in 1948 and earned master’s and doctoral degrees from Pennsylvania State University.

Bell championed increased funding for training African American agriculture teachers and expanding vocational programs. He also headed a research team conducting agricultural assessments in Tanzania and Kenya. CAES Interim Dean Shirley Hymon-Parker called Bell one of the “founding fathers" of the college.

In an interview posted on YouTube last year by Small Farms NC, Bell praised New Farmers of America — the historical counterpart of the then whites-only Future Farmers of America.

“It opened up avenues for Black boys to get training, get experience, similar to what the white boys would get,” Bell said.

James Stewart, archivist at A&T’s F.D. Bluford Library, credited Bell with preserving many historical documents. But it’s the students that Bell was most proud of.

“My biggest accomplishment was the development of the young people, the students that came through the program and the contribution they are making now and have made,” he said.

We celebrate Ann Mitchell for being the Prairie View A&M University 4-H volunteer with the longest, continuous service. She is a native of Anderson, Texas, who has devoted more than 27 years to Grimes County 4-H. She is a graduate of Anderson High School, an alum of Blinn Community College and a recipient of the Salute to Excellence Award at the State 4-H Roundup in June 2018 for her years of service.

Mitchell has provided guidance on a variety of projects: animal, clothing and textile, food and nutrition, and even photography. In 1998, she became involved with 4-H when her daughter was encouraged to participate by a friend who was already a member. Her first project involved showing rabbits. She attended county shows, later engaging in clothing and textiles by organizing fashion demonstrations.

• 1999-Present, Charm and Sewing 4-H Club leader/manager
• 2004-2008, Grimes Equine Club and Anderson Senior 4-H volunteer
• 1998-2004, Anderson Junior 4-H volunteer

Mitchell has held positions with the County 4-H program: 4-H Council Taskforce member and served as president/vice president for the Grimes County 4-H Adult Leaders Council. She regularly judges Brazos County Roundup competitions, including Food Show, Food Challenge, Share the Fun and Fashion Show.

South Carolina State Public Service and Agriculture (SC State PSA) recognized Cornelius Hamilton, Extension director for the Low Country region, as the 2024 Ishmel Washington Excellence in Extension Award recipient. This award honors Hamilton’s dedication to serving his community and exemplifying the true spirit of Extension.

As Extension director, Hamilton manages all 1890 Extension programs across Allendale, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties. He collaborates with community advisory councils, local organizations, businesses, schools and government agencies to develop effective programs and workshops for underserved communities.

“I’m deeply honored to receive the Ishmel Washington Excellence in Extension Award,” said Hamilton. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication that drive our mission at SC State PSA. I remain committed to this charge and thank my Extension office staff for embracing the vision and working tirelessly to provide exceptional public service to the Low Country region.”

Hamilton credits his mentor, Ishmel Washington, the former Low Country Extension director after whom the annual award is named, for inspiring his passion for Extension.

The Ishmel Washington Excellence in Extension Award honors an Extension staff who embodies the mission of SC State PSA through effective leadership and program initiatives that enhance the quality of life for underserved populations. Hamilton’s work supports the mission by advancing agriculture and addressing the needs of local farmers, families and communities.

As the Southern University Ag Center gears up for its 82nd annual State Livestock and Poultry Show, we honor the life of James Cliff Archie, former Livestock Show director.

Archie exhibited cattle in the second Livestock Show and never missed a show, except when serving in the Army. He attended Southern University, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture sciences.

In 1969, he became a joint employee of Louisiana State University and Southern University, serving as Southern’s Livestock Show director. He would serve in this position for almost 40 years until his retirement in 2006.

Under Archie’s leadership, the Southern University Livestock Show became more diverse and continues to serve as a strong outreach arm of the university. He worked alongside small farmers, assisting them with their livestock, and helped countless youths obtain 4-H grants and livestock loans to help with animal projects. He also helped numerous young men and women with entrance to college by calling in favors to allow students a few extra days to pay their fees, transporting students who needed rides, granting students jobs to help offset the cost of tuition and even loaning a few dollars to those who promised to repay him.

One of his greatest accomplishments while serving as the Livestock Show director was the construction of the Maurice A. Edmond Livestock Show Arena, where the livestock shows are held today.

The Southern University Ag Center memorialized Archie’s legacy by naming the road leading to its Agricultural Experiment Station the James C. Archie Drive.

Dr. Brione Lockett, Tennessee State University (TSU) College of Agriculture and Human Sciences assistant professor and director of the Community Nutrition Education Programs, has made a significant impact since joining the TSU community in August 2022. From day one, Lockett has demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative in various areas, including mental and behavioral health, food and nutrition, social drivers of health, Cooperative Extension, and student and community engagement.

One of Lockett's key initiatives is the Exposure 2 Expansion Leadership Academy. This unique program provides TSU students with invaluable leadership development experiences. Through immersive trips to Southern Utah and Nevada, students gain firsthand knowledge of diverse ecosystems and engage with professionals from various fields, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Park Service.

This exposure fosters career exploration and provides students with valuable networking opportunities, expanding their horizons and preparing them for successful careers while promoting the SEED: Career Growth mobile application that allows individuals to find their next educational or career opportunity with SEED: Students Exploring Employment & Development, the app designed to connect learners with jobs, internships and scholarships in the agriculture industry.

Tuskegee University Cooperative Extension Program (TUCEP) is proud of the rich history of Dr. George Washington Carver. Part of the legacy and history of Carver is the movable school or the Jesup Wagon. The purpose of the wagon was to go into the community to help area farmers.

It started in 1899 when Carver acquired a wagon and a mule and stocked it with tools, seed packages and boxed demonstration plants. He then went into the community. Dr. Booker T. Washington was so motivated by his act that he sought funding for a more appropriate wagon. The wagon was constructed after securing financing from H.R. Jesup. The Jesup Wagon was replaced by the Knapp Agricultural Truck, which became the permanent movable school for Tuskegee University’s agricultural education to rural Blacks in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi.

In 1928, 30,000 Black Alabama farmers and friends collected $5,000 to purchase a vehicle to replace the Knapp Truck to continue the Extension work.

The Booker T. Washington Agricultural School on Wheels was completed with farm implements and home conveniences, with trained workers. One taught improved methods of farming, a woman gave instructions on better home practices, and a nurse gave demonstrations in simple home sanitation and hygiene and cared for the sick.

The original movable school was a success because it was able to go into the rural communities to provide practical applications in making doorsteps, mixing whitewash paints, building sanitary toilets and poultry houses, sharpening saws, curing and storing sweet potatoes, and pruning, terracing land and inoculating farm animals against diseases.

For James Bunch, agriculture has always played an important role in his life. After he earned a degree in agriculture from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), he went on to have a 35-year career with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). During retirement, he started his own consultant business.

In recent years, Bunch began to reflect on the need to popularize the field of agriculture among young Americans, especially among Black, Hispanic and other minority youths.

“I started thinking about how we need to be more innovative in reaching young people,” he said. “Our youths are spending free time on their phones. What if content creation is key for the future of agricultural outreach?”

Bunch started devising an idea for a video series called “Hip Hop Farmers” that would encourage minority youths to consider agricultural careers and highlight the broad services of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Think Green Acres meets hip-hop,” Bunch said. “In my series, a young New York City hip-hop music mogul relocates to Memphis, Tennessee, after the unexpected passing of a dear college friend. Along with his fashion influencer fiancée, he takes on the challenge of running an urban farm in a community struggling to survive gentrification.”

The series not only works to recruit youths to agriculture by presenting a compelling story, but it also demonstrates how families can use USDA resources to make their family farms profitable and sustainable, he said.

In celebration of Black History Month, Bunch plans to screen the pilot episode at the UAPB campus.

A tribute to her professional contributions to the community and her field, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Extension’s nutrition and health programs director joined the ranks of the 2024 Top 100 Women in Maryland by The Daily Record. Dr. Virginie Zoumenou was honored for her leadership over the past 19 years in community education and services related to health and nutrition in the high food insecurity region UMES serves.

Zoumenou leads the university’s U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program, along with the Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Program and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Well Connected Communities Culture of Health Initiative.

“Through these activities, Dr. Zoumenou has built a strong collaborative relationship with social services and community-based organizations dedicated to our communities at the local, state and national levels,” said Dr. Heidi M. Anderson, UMES’ 16th president who is a Circle of Excellence (three-time) recipient of the award. “We are not only proud of her accomplishments, but those of her team as well.”

Zoumenou’s professional acumen is also evidenced by her leadership among her peers in the 1890s Multi-State Community Nutrition Education. She played a key role in UMES hosting its annual 2024 conference aimed at building and strengthening nutrition security and partnerships among communities.

At Virginia State University, Virginia Cooperate Extension Youth Development Specialist Nicole Swinson is opening doors for high school students to future opportunities by showing students that agriculture is for everyone with her innovative AgCulture program, which combines 4-H and Jr. MANRRS at a local high school. Now in its second year, AgCulture has 40 participants.

Recently, AgCulture students have learned from guest speakers and attended a leadership conference.

“We had about 100 young people who were interested in learning about parliamentary procedure, entrepreneurship, money management and ways to increase their influence as leaders within their communities,” says Swinson, who identifies commitment to families and communities as a shared value of her AgCulture students.

Beyond learning about leadership and agriculture, Swinson wants to ensure each AgCulture student learns about citizenship, the power of exploration and understanding where they fit in the world. “They’re learning they have a voice and a purpose,” she says.

Last year, the AgCulture students built a produce garden at their school, and this year, students, staff and faculty enjoyed the garden’s first yields. Currently, students are growing herbs and plants for an upcoming tea ceremony, where they will serve their peers teas and share their knowledge of how herbs can support mental health, wellness and mood.

Swinson says working with AgCulture youths is life-changing. “I see these young people with new, vibrant ideas, and I want to support them to access their imagination and dreams,” she says.

Virginia Cooperative Extension extends the resources of Virginia's two land-grant universities, Virginia State University and Virginia Tech, to solve problems facing Virginians every day.

Dr. Johnnie Westbrook is the associate dean and associate director of West Virginia State University (WVSU) Extension Service, where he significantly shapes the region’s educational landscape. Originally from North Carolina, he has committed his career to agricultural education and Cooperative Extension since 1995. Prior to WVSU, he taught secondary agricultural education in North Carolina and has held positions in Extension and agricultural education at Alcorn State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Kentucky State University and Virginia State University.

Westbrook’s vision for WVSU Extension Service focuses on improving program delivery and accessibility for West Virginia’s diverse communities. He collaborates with program leaders and stakeholders to create targeted programs that meet locals’ specific needs. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, he builds partnerships with educational institutions and organizations within the land-grant system, which enhances WVSU Extension Service’s outreach.

One of his primary goals is to expand county-level staff to improve the effectiveness of Extension and ensure communities have access to educational programs and resources. He envisions Extension staff working alongside researchers to turn scientific knowledge into practical solutions for West Virginia communities, families, farmers and youths.

Westbrook actively engages with residents to remain connected to the communities served by WVSU Extension Service. His dedication to fostering a culture of learning and support drives ongoing progress throughout West Virginia.