SU Ag Center to Hold Child Care Training

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BATON ROUGE, LA, 5/3/2011 - The Southern University Ag Center invites all Louisiana child care providers to attend a training session, May 20-21, in Baton Rouge. Participants will receive up to nine hours of new ideas, and discover new and exciting programs. As providers, this training is an opportunity to leap into childcare training for you or your staff and gain basic or advance skills.

Topics

Various Educational and Child Development sessions will be offered during this training and throughout the year. Specific topics will include: learning environments; physical and intellectual development; social and emotional development; nutrition for children; and working with families.

Fees

A $10.00 fee will be assessed for each 3-clock hour session for License Class A Centers and Registered Family Child Care providers. A $15 fee will be assessed for each 3-clock hour session for participants in Class B Centers.

Register now as classes will fill up quickly. For registration information, please contact Charlena Gatlin at 225-771-2242.

Notification of Pre-registration
All child care directors and providers will be notified by phone or with a letter of confirmation, once their pre-registration information has been received.

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SU Ag Center Leadership Institute Graduate Receives Fellowship

Contact: Bridget Udoh

(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ag Institute Graduate Named Fellow

BATON ROUGE, LA, 4/25/11 – Jenga Mwendo was among the 14 new Fellows recently selected by the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) Food and Community to receive an award. The 2011-2013 class of Fellows is a mix of grassroots advocates, thought leaders, writers and entrepreneurs. Mwendo is a graduate of the SU Ag Center Small Farmer Leadership Institute class of 2011 and director of Backyard Gardeners Network. She is a community organizer based in New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward who focuses on strengthening community through urban agriculture.

The award comes with a two-year fellowship that provides an annual stipend of $35,000 in addition to communications support, trainings, and travel. The program supports leaders working to create a food system that strengthens the health of communities, particularly children. For this class of Fellows, the selection committee focused on work that creates a just, equitable and healthy food system from its roots up. Over 560 individuals applied for fellowships.

The IATP Food and Society Fellows are innovative change makers who advocate for food and farming systems that are just and healthy for all people. Fellows use multi-media, policy advocacy and community engagement to promote fresh ideas on all aspects of the national food system—supporting culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable farming, safe processing and distribution, fair labor standards, and healthy food accessible to all—especially our most vulnerable children.

“The Food and Community Fellows have always been change agents,” says Jim Harkness, President of IATP.” We invest in individuals that have a vision and plan for bettering the food system. These fellowships aren’t about incremental change; we want big visions that have the potential to provide our children with new opportunities for growing, processing, eating and thinking about food.”

The Food and Community Fellows program is funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in Battle Creek, MI and the Woodcock Foundation, based in New York, New York.

The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy works locally and globally at the intersection of policy and practice to ensure fair and sustainable food, farm and trade systems. http://www.iatp.org/

To read the full story, visit http://www.foodandsocietyfellows.org/

Dr. Dawn Mellion-Patin directs the Small Farmer Agricultural Leadership Training Institute, a two-year course of study specifically designed to guide small, socially disadvantaged, limited resource and minority farmers through the transformative process of becoming successful agricultural entrepreneurs.

Please follow the SU Ag Center Small Farmer Leadership Institute on Facebook.at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Small-Farmer-Agricultural-Leadership-Institute/115169218522140

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SU Ag Center to Join Petition to Save Our Southern

Contact: Bridget Udoh

(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SU Ag Center to Join Petition to Save Our Southern

BATON ROUGE, LA, 4/25/11 – The SU Ag Center will join the petition to “Support Our Southern” at the Louisiana State Capitol on Tuesday, April 26, starting at 10:00 am. Display set up will begin at 8:00 am in the Capitol’s Rotunda and will open at 9:00 am. Two vans will be departing from the front parking lot of the Ag Center at 9:00 am and returning at 12:00 pm.

The Baton Rouge Campus has also made transportation arrangements as follows:
Bus #1 departs from Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union at 8:30 and 9:15 am and
bus #2 departs from the F.G. Clark Activity Center at 9 and 9:30 am.

For further information please feel free to contact: Kim Butler at 771-2242

Developing a Strong Winning Proposal

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714
http://www.suagcenter.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SU Ag Center to Hold Proposal Writing Seminar

BATON ROUGE, LA, 4/20/2011 - The Southern University Ag Center will hold a seminar on Developing a Strong Winning Proposal, May 25, from 9 am-11 am, in A.O. Williams Hall, room 191. This free educational event is open to the public.

Topics to be covered include: Understanding Government Procurement Instruments; Effectively Responding to Request for Government Proposal; What Today’s Winning Proposal Looks Like; Exchanges/Communication with Contracting Officer; Best Value to the Government; How the Government Evaluates Proposals; Proposal Conferences; Helpful Hints Regarding Writing Proposals; Things to Avoid in Proposal Writing; and Developing Your Cost and Pricing.

Seats are limited and deadline to register is May 20, 2011. Please send your registration by e-mail to Peggy Sammons at prs6182@louisiana.edu, or fax to (337) 482-5837, or phone (800) 206-3545.

For more information, contact: Gloria London at (225) 771-2242; Gloria_london@suagcenter.com

SU Ag Center to Hold Annual Goat Field Day

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BATON ROUGE, LA, 4/18/2011 - The Southern University Ag Center will hold its 6th Annual Goat Field Day on Saturday, April 30 in A.O. Williams Hall. This educational event is open to anyone currently involved in goat production as well as those who are interested in learning more about raising goats.

This year’s event will feature presentations on integrated parasite management, including FAMACHA training, record keeping, marketing strategies, and forage-based production. Challenges and opportunities will be addressed during the questions and answers session. The day will also include demonstrations and hands-on training on fecal eggs count (wet lab), goat sausage making, and a farmer’s market set-up and sales.

The Goat Field Day is being offered free of charge and lunch will be served. Those who are interested in becoming FAMACHA trained will incur a charge of $10.00 for the color guide chart. Registration will begin at 7:30 am in the Ag Center, A.O. Williams Hall, and the program starts promptly at 8 am.

For more information, contact: Lisa Gray at (225) 771-2242/ (225) 205-4857, lisa_gray@suagcenter.com; Jim Miller (jmill1@lsu.edu), Terry Dumas (tdumas@gcenter.lsu.edu), or Sebhatu Gebrelul (sebhatu_gebrelul@suagcenter.com.

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Southern University Ag Center Celebrates Life

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714
http://www.suagcenter.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern University Ag Center Celebrates Life

BATON ROUGE, LA, 4/8/2011 – The Southern University Ag Center launched its annual “American Cancer Society Relay For Life” this morning in A. O. Williams Hall. The Southern University Ag Center stands tall to support the Communities of Color Network, a tobacco and health initiative, in collaboration with various organizations. Specifically, the Relay for Life event is being held on Southern University campus April 8, 6:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. This activity offers everyone in the community an opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer.

For further details, please contact Linda E. Brown, director, Communities of Color Network at: 771-2242 or visit: www.relayforlife.org/southernuniversity

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SU Ag Center Holds Third Leadership Class Graduation Ceremony in DC

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714
http://www.suagcenter.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Class III - Small Farmer Agricultural Leadership Institute Graduation, March 24, 2011

SU Ag Center Holds Third Leadership Class Graduation Ceremony in DC

BATON ROUGE, LA, 3/25/2011 – The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension held its 3rd Leadership Class Graduation Ceremony in DC, March 24.

The Class of 2011 Small Farmer Agricultural Leadership Institute numbered 28 small farmers from across the nation. This illustrious group received certificates of completion during a graduation ceremony in Washington, DC. The ceremony, which concluded a two-year intensive program of study, was held at USDA headquarters. Leodrey Williams, SU Ag Center Chancellor, Gina E. Eubanks, Vice Chancellor for Extension and Dawn Mellion-Patin, Institute Director, graced the occasion along with USDA officials.

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Bayou State Trail Riders to Start Journey to SU Ag Center for Horse Show

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714
http://www.suagcenter.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bayou State Trail Riders to Start Journey to SU Ag Center for Horse Show

BATON ROUGE, LA, 3/24/2011 – The Bayou State Trail Riders will start their journey to Baton Rouge for the 41st SU Ag Center’s Horse Show. Students at Winnsboro Elementary and Franklin Parish Head Start will get an afternoon visit from the Bayou State Trail Riders on Monday, April 4.

This is the seventh year that the convoy of horses, buggies and covered wagons has passed through Winnsboro on its way to Southern University in Baton Rouge. Riders from other states join the group at different stops along the way to participate in the seven-day trip.

Participants will leave for the 100-mile journey from the Monroe Civic Center at 8 a.m. on April 3 to arrive in Baton Rouge for the annual SU Ag Center horseshow on Friday, April 8.

The 41st Annual State and Regional Horse Show will take place at the M.A. Edmond Livestock Arena located on Hwy 61. The kickoff events are the western round-up, Best Dressed Cowboy/Cowgirl Contest, Mechanical Bull Contest and Zydeco Band (J. Paul Jr. and Zydeco Nubreeds) on Friday evening. Events for Saturday include Kids Rodeo on stick Horses at 9:00 a.m. in the Arena; the Trail ride, beginning at F. G. Clark Activity Center on the campus of Southern University at 2:00 p.m., and ending at the M.A. Edmond Arena. The Gaited Horse Show will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Leon Chavis and the Zydeco Flames performing at 7:00 p.m. The event culminates with the Cowboy Church at 9:00 a.m., on Sunday, April 10.

The trail ride is a collaborative effort with several organizations throughout the southern region and began initially on Saturday, March 25th in Eldorado, Arkansas. The participants continue the trail ride daily until they reach their destination at the Ag Center’s M.A. Edmond Livestock Arena.

For further information, please contact Christie Monroe at 225-771-2242.

The Franklin Sun carried the story on the March 23 e-news edition: http://www.franklinsun.com/news.php?id=3458

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The SU Ag Center to Host its 39th Annual Rabbit Show

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714
http://www.suagcenter.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The SU Ag Center to Host its 39th Annual Rabbit Show

BATON ROUGE, LA, 3/23/2011 – The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center will host its 39th annual state and national Rabbit Show, Saturday, April 2 at the M.A. Edmond Livestock Show Arena. Youth from across the state will converge in Baton Rouge for this annual event that teaches leadership skills, character development, and entrepreneurship skills.

The SU Ag Center’s Annual Rabbit Show is the largest in the state, with competitions in 16 sanctioned rabbit breeds, and draws youth from almost every parish in the State. "We're expecting more than 200 youth exhibitors to participate in this year's Show," said Livestock Show Director, Christie Monroe. Participating youth represent Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters, 4-H Clubs, and other school-aged youth.

The SU Ag Center’s Rabbit Show is sanctioned by the American Rabbit Breeders Association, and is co-sponsored by the Louisiana Rabbit Breeders Association. All events are free and open to the public.

For further information, please contact Christie Monroe at 225-771-2242.

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SU Ag Center’s Louisiana Small Farmer Conference Culminates in Graduation

Left to right, Chancellor Williams, Graduates, VC Eubanks and Director Mellion-Patin

BATON ROUGE, LA, 3/19/11 –The SU Ag Center’s Louisiana Small Farmer Conference Culminates in Graduation Ceremony. The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center hosted the Louisiana Small Farmer Conference, March 17 –– 19 in Baton Rouge. The theme for this event was, “Sustaining Louisiana’s Small Family Farms.” This conference was enlightening, informative and designed to educate and expand the awareness of educational opportunities, USDA programs and services and other resources which help small farmers stay in business. The overall goal of the conference was to provide an opportunity for Louisiana’s small agricultural producers to come together and share strategies as well as be informed about the latest educational tools and resources which could impact the survival of their agricultural businesses. The conference targeted small and beginning farmers, agricultural business owners, community-based, and nonprofit organizations.

During the opening session, SU Ag Center Chancellor Leodrey Williams, extended a warm welcome to participants and in conclusion said, “If we don’t do anything to help others, we have not done much at all.” The commissioner of Agriculture & Forestry Mike Strain, DVM was on hand to welcome conference attendees from across Louisiana. He stated that, with the push for alternative energy, great benefits await farmers and emphasized the importance of “preserving, protecting and keeping our farmlands.” Also to address the audience was Cathea Simelton, Interim National Program Leader, Small and Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program, USDA, Office of Advocacy and Outreach, Washington, DC. Simelton assured the participants that her office “understands the obstacles small farmers face,” and ready and willing to help them succeed.

The conference started with a tour of the Perkins’ organic farm in Port Hudson, the Jones’ goat farm in Zachary and the Muhaimins’ poultry farm in Zachary. The second day of the conference involved intense sessions with topics including challenges to sustaining Louisiana small farms, young agricultural program, establishing a farm plan for new and existing farmers, marketing and legal issues.

The conference culminated on Saturday morning with a graduation for the first class of small farmers who participated in the Louisiana Small Farmer Agricultural Leadership Institute. These eleven distinguished honorees from six parishes successfully completed a 75-hour training program focusing on leadership development and business management. “Congratulations to the graduates,” said Dr. Dawn Mellion-Patin, Director and chair of conference committee. The Chancellor summed it all up when he said “I am proud of you, the students, teachers, staff, retirees, and everyone who has supported this conference.”

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Southern University Ag Center Concluded its 68th Annual Livestock Show

Brenda DeRouren (Center) received an award for 30 years of service with the 

Southern University Ag Center’s Livestock Show. Pictured L to R:  

James C. Archie, former Livestock Show Director and 

Christie Monroe, director. 

The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center concluded its 68th Annual Livestock Show with more than 400 participants from across the state this past weekend.  During the two-day event, young farmers and ranchers from across the state had the opportunity to display animals that have been showcased or have won in-parish competitions. After the show, judges named state champions in various breeds of beef and dairy cattle, hogs, sheep, lamb, and goats. The all-time favorite mini-farm, featuring a variety of small farm animals, was held for school-age kids from the local schools.  In addition, tours were provided to discuss different animals, their food sources, farming, and how agriculture affects everyone's life.

Winners of the show received premiums, rosettes, ribbons, and banners. An awards presentation for exhibitors of champion market animals was held followed by the Junior Auction Sale. This year show was dedicated to long-time Livestock Show employee, Brenda DeRouren who will be retiring from the University later this month after working 30 years.

Results from the Show: 

http://www.suagcenter.com/livestock/Livestock2011/photogallery/index.htm

2011 Beef Breeding Division - Chris Robichaux, Superintendent

Category:  Brahman Influence – Heifer

Champion: Ashlyn Turner, Claiborne Parish

Reserve Champion:  Madison Stone, Caddo Parish                              

Category:  Non-Brahman Influence – Heifer

Champion: Sidney Thibodeaux, Lafourche Parish

Reserve Champion: Madison Stone, DeSoto Parish                                            

Category:  Brahman Influence – Bull

Champion Market Goat - Mackenzie Castro, Assumption
 (Purchased by B & G Goat Farm and Castro Club Lamb - $2000)

Champion: Ashlyn Turner, Claiborne ParishReserve Champion: Ashlyn Turner, Claiborne Parish

Category:  Non-Brahman Influence – Bull

Champion: Sidney Thibodeaux, Lafourche Parish

Reserve Champion: Cort Decoteau, East Baton Rouge Parish

Category:  Commercial Heifer

Champion: Mitchell Miles, Winn Parish

Reserve Champion: Mitchell Miles, Winn Parish

Category:  Beef Showmanship

Champion: Madison Cain, Claiborne Parish

Reserve Champion:  Ashlyn Turner, Claiborne Parish

2011 Commercial Dairy Division - Eugene Runles, Superintendent

Category: Supreme Commercial Champion

Champion: Chandler Blayne Salley, Sabine Parish

Category:  Dairy Showmanship

Champion: Maggie Brakeville , Bossier Parish

Reserve Champion: Chandler Blayne Salley, Sabine Parish

2011 Market Goat Division - Terrance Marshall, Superintendent

Category:  Goat Showmanship

Champion: Magan Cheek, Winn Parish

Reserve Champion: Kyle Sonnier, Jeff Davis Parish

               

2011 Market Lamb Division - Terrance Marshall, Superintendent

Category:  Sheep Showmanship

Champion: Hanna Cunningham, Natchitoches Parish

Reserve Champion: Brody Hebert, Lafourche Parish

2011 Market Hog Division - Terry Washington, Superintendent

Category:  Swine Showmanship

Champion: Josie Camp, Winn Parish

Reserve Champion: Colton Branam, Sabine Parish

Market Champions

Champion Market Steer - Chantalyn Jackson, Tangipohoa (Purchased by Bogalusa AME District - $3,500)

Reserve Champion Market & Champion LA Breed Market Steer - Junter Millican, East Baton Rouge (Purchased by Commissioner Mike Strain and Twlight Breaking / LA Cattlemen Association ($3,200)

Reserve Champion LA Breed Steer - Amahay Jackson, Madison (Purchased by Commissioner Mike Strain and LA Cattlemen Association ($3,000)

Champion Market Hog - Mason Collins, DeSoto (Purchased by Commissioner Mike Strain - $1,000)

Reserve Champion Market Hog - Abilgail Robinson, LaSalle (Purchased by Gina E. Eubanks - $800)

Champion Market Lamb - Kathryn Manuel, Beauregard (Purchased by Commissioner Mike Strain and Agnomen, Inc. - $600)

Reserve Champion Market Lamb - Paige Quebedaux, LaFourche (Purchased by Commissioner Mike Strain and Purina Land - $400

Champion Market Goat - Mackenzie Castro, Assumption (Purchased by B & G Goat Farm and Castro Club Lamb - $2000)

Reserve Champion Market Goat - Magen Cheek, Winn (Commissioner Mike Strain and FMC Winn Livestock - $400) 

CoC Network Partners with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of LA promote Healthy Lifestyles

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana observed African-American Heritage Month by calling for “one people, one vision for a healthy Louisiana. To promote health, wellness and celebrate Louisiana’'s rich diversity, the state'’s largest domestic and non-profit insurer partnerered with the Mall of Louisiana to host a month-long celebration of living African-Americans who support healthy lifestyles.

Frankie Poland, regional coordinator, shares with East Baton Rouge 

Parish Mayor/President  Melvin "Kip" Holden about the SU Ag Center's Communities of Color Network.

“Living Legends: Building a Legacy of Health in Mind, Soul and Body” was a series of events held at the Mall's Center Court.  Every Wednesday during the month of February, from 11 a.m. to noon, the Heritage Reading Series feature prominent African-Americans from the Baton Rouge region delivering readings of works by Black thought leaders.

  

Living Legends culminated the activity on February 26th with a Health Expo where Frankie Poland, regional coordinator expertly displayed a booth impacting the negative impact of secondhand smoke and the harmful impact of tobacco products.  The Expo coincided with the American Heart and American Stroke Associations’ Power to End Stroke Mall Walk.  Participants were able to get free health information and other wellness services provided by Blue Cross and other health professionals from throughout the region.  Poland met with East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor/President Melvin "Kip" Holden to discuss Southern University's role in eradicating, reducing tobacco products in the African-American communities.

Capitol High Academy Shines at Annual Black History Quiz Bowl

Capitol High Academy Shines at the Black History
Quiz Bowl: L toR Hanifah Muhammad, Darius Williams, Owusu Bandele, Moderator,
Sherrell Briggs, and John Brumfield. – Photo by Lisa Gray

Baton Rouge (LA) Competition was keen as twelve teams competed for top honors at the 17^th Annual Black History Quiz Bowl hosted by the Southern University Ag Center on Thursday, February 25.   The questions covered a variety of topics including politics, civil rights, culture, sports, and the arts.  Five high school teams and seven teams from the College of Agricultural, Family, and Consumer Sciences competed against each other. 

In the end, the young scholars from Capitol High Academy took first place, followed by a second place finish by the Southern University Timbuktu Academy. The Animal Scientists Blue Team from the Southern University College of Agricultural, Family, and Consumer Sciences finished third.  “It’s all about preparation,” expressed Dr. Owusu Bandele, a retired Southern University Ag Center Professor Emeritus, who initiated the annual quiz bowl seventeen years ago and moderates the
sessions.  “The high school teams signed up early and, consequently received the study guides earlier.  They took the event seriously. It was truly inspirational to see these young people perform so well,” added Bandele.  The Capitol High Academy team included John Brumfield, Sherrell Briggs, Darius Williams, and Hanifah Muhammad.  Timbuktu Academy team members included Ikechi Akujobi, Justin Brumfield, Kristopher Dandridge, and Cyla Queen.  The Animal Scientists team consisted of Isaiah Nelson, Bryan Smith, Patience Muse, and Bryan Goins.  All participants received books by or about African Americans as gifts.

SU Ag Center to Sponsor Annual Connecting Businesses with Contracts Procurement Conference

PRESS RELEASE


Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SU Ag Center to Sponsor Annual Connecting Businesses with Contracts Procurement Conference

BATON ROUGE, LA, February 15, 2011—Small business owners and contractors are invited to participate in the Seventh Annual Connecting Businesses with Contracts Procurement Conference, March 29, 2011, at the Southern University Smith Brown Memorial Student Union, 500 Jesse N. Stone Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70813.

The conference continues to bring together potential and existing contractors, entrepreneurs and government agencies in position for business match-making. Small enterprises are provided an opportunity to meet contracting officers and purchasing agents.

Attendees will receive information on sources of assistance, the process of registration and obtaining licensing, methods of financing, and securing contracts. Participants will be exposed to techniques on selling products and services to private industry and federal, state, and local governments.

Representatives from the United States Small Business Administration will be available to discuss SBA programs, guarantees, certification process, bonds and surety, GO Loans, and disaster loans. Likewise, the Louisiana State Contractor Licensing Department will answer questions from individuals who want to become licensed or from existing contractors.

The conference is hosted by the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center, the Center for Rural and Small Business Development, Louisiana Small Business Development Centers in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, the U. S. Small Business Administration, Louisiana Procurement Technical Assistance Center and Louisiana Economic Development Corporation.

The event is free, but registration ends Thursday, March 24, 2011.

All visitors should park at Southern University Mini Dome from where they will be shuttled to the Student Union.

Register online at: http://www.crsbd.com/events/registration/

For more information, contact Gloria London, Director, Center for Rural and Small Business Development, or Eual Hall, Business Development Specialist, at (225) 771-4107 or 4105.

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SU Students to Participate in Agricultural Research Symposium

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SU Students to Participate in Agricultural Research Symposium

BATON ROUGE, LA, 2/10/2011 – Southern University Ag Center professor, Daniel Collins, accompanies students to participate in the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Beltsville Area Graduate Student Agricultural Research Symposium Feb. 10-11, 2011 in Beltsville, MD. Graduate students from the Urban Forestry program at Southern University will participate in this Symposium sponsored by the Beltsville Area Diversity Task Force. The goal of the symposium is to expose students to career opportunities at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center and throughout the United States Department of Agriculture.

The symposium will bring together the talents of 1890 Land Grant Institution students and future scientists with the ARS scientific staff to strengthen collaborations and jointly enhance the scientific advancement of our nation's agriculture. The Urban Forestry program has a couple of ongoing research projects with ARS including screening the gulf coast forest species for reaction to Phytophthora ramorum, and the use of remote sensing and multispectral analysis for detecting citrus trees in urban environments to enhance surveys for pests of citrus.

The Symposium will feature oral and poster presentations by graduate students from six 1890 Land Grant Institutions including Southern University. Nine graduate students from the SU Urban Forestry Program will be making oral and poster presentations. Presenting in the oral category are doctoral students Ryan Nicholas, Yongsheng Li, Vanessa Ferchaud, and Mary Beals; and Master’s degree student Michaela Danzy. The poster presentation category includes doctoral students Chris Chappell, Jason Preuett, and Tanganika Johnson; and Master’s degree students Amy Gilliam and Brian Mims.

The Symposium website is available at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/Aboutus/docs.htm?docid=17502

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Southern University Ag Center to Host 17th Annual Black History Quiz Bowl

PRESS RELEASE

Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern University Ag Center to Host 17th Annual Black History Quiz Bowl

BATON ROUGE, LA, 2/9/2011 – Southern University Agricultural and Research Extension Center is hosting its 17th annual Black History Quiz Bowl. The event will be held Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Ag Center. This is an educational and exciting event for everyone to attend. In previous years, the Quiz Bowl has been very successful.

All departments, divisions, clubs, student organizations and individual students within the university are encouraged to form teams in preparation for this event. Each team will consist of four players, one of whom should serve as captain. All teams must register in the College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences Dean's complex located in room 102 Fisher Hall. The deadline to register is Friday, February 18, 2011.

A variety of topics will be covered, including current events, politics, history, sports and entertainment. All interested students must sign the roster at the Southern University College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences Dean's complex.

For further details, please contact Dr. Owusu Bandele at (225) 284-0063.

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Home Harvesting and Processing Chicken video now available online

PRESS RELEASE


Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Home Harvesting and Processing Chicken video now available online

BATON ROUGE, LA, 2/7/2011 – The SU Ag Center video on “Home Harvesting and Processing Chicken” is now available online at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLMiMly27l8

For further detail, please contact Professor Emeritus James McNitt at 225-771-2242

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National 4-H Council Announces National Mentoring Program With Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

PRESS RELEASE


Southern University and A&M College
Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

__________________________________________________________________

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

National 4-H Council Announces National Mentoring Program With Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center


BATON ROUGE, LA, 2/2/2011 – National 4-H Council is proud to announce that it has launched a nationwide mentoring initiative to increase youth social competency, family relationships, and academic success. The 4-H National Mentoring Program will provide funding to land-grant universities in 47 states to replicate three evidence-based Extension 4-H programs in communities that have an increased risk for youth delinquency.

The Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) awarded a $5 million grant to National 4-H Council in support of the 4-H National Mentoring Program. The grant comes as a part of the OJJDP’s national effort to strengthen, expand and implement youth mentoring activities nationwide to improve the lives of millions of young Americans.

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center is pleased to announce it has been selected to implement 4-H LIFE – Living Interactive Family Education as a part of the 4-H National Mentoring Program. Staff members recently joined representatives from other state 4-H programs for training at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center in Chevy Chase, MD, near Washington, DC, January 10-15, 2011. State 4-H programs selected from three of Cooperative Extension’s proven mentoring programs to implement in their local communities: 4-H Mentoring: Youth & Families with Promise (YFP), created by Utah State University; 4-H Tech Wizards, created by Oregon State University; and 4-H Living Interactive Family Education (LIFE), created by the University of Missouri.

The 4-H LIFE Program is a family strengthening program that addresses the needs of children of incarcerated parents. The overall objective of the 4-H LIFE Program is to promote a strong, healthy, and nurturing family environment for children of incarcerated parents, while helping incarcerated parents and trained 4-H volunteers become positive role models and mentors.

The program has three, interwoven components focused on parenting skills classes and planning meetings for the incarcerated parents and 4-H club meetings that unite children with their families inside the prison visiting room. These components are designed to create stronger parent-child bonds, improve the quality of prison-based family visits, and increase youth decision-making and communication skills. Incarcerated parents are required to participate in weekly parenting, leadership, and planning meetings in order to qualify for the program. Children of offenders who are involved in 4-H LIFE are also enrolled as members of county 4-H programs and are mentored by 4-H volunteers.

It has been demonstrated that a trusting relationship with a caring adult can have a life-changing effect on a young person. Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center will implement, monitor, and assess program mentoring strategies to create positive outcomes for youth. Research data indicates that mentoring programs have reduced first-time drug use by almost 50 percent and first-time alcohol use by 33 percent. In addition, mentored youth displayed greater confidence in their schoolwork and improved their academic performance.

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About 4-H

4-H is a community of six million young people across America learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. National 4-H Council is the private sector, non-profit partner of 4-H National Headquarters at the National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) within USDA. 4-H programs are implemented by 109 land-grant universities and the Cooperative Extension System through their 3,100 local Extension offices in every county across the country. Learn more about 4-H at www.4-H.org.

This project is supported by Award No. 2010-JU-FX-0016 awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office of Justice Programs

For further detail, please contact Tiffany Franklin at 225-771-2242 or (225) 771-2775

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www.suagcenter.com

Southern University Ag Center Youth to Sing at Carnegie Hall

Southern University Ag Center


Press Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

Southern University Ag Center Youth to Sing at Carnegie Hall, New York City

BATON ROUGE, LA, February 2, 2011 – Daisha Badon is scheduled to sing at Carnegie Hall, New York in mid February. The full feature article entitled: "Sing Daisha, Sing," is available on the West Side Journal's website. Daisha is the 17- year old daughter of SU Ag Center Creative Specialist Donna, and Dwayne Badon. Please visit the link at: www.thewestsidejournal.com/home.html and select "News" from the menu, then "Story One." Congratulations, Daisha and the Badon family!



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www.suagcenter.com

http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/dietaryguidelines.htm

Southern University Ag Center


Press Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Bridget Udoh

(225) 771-5714

New Dietary Guidelines for Americans now available

BATON ROUGE, LA, February 1, 2011 – The - US Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius announced the release of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the federal government's evidence-based nutritional guidance to promote health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity through improved nutrition and physical activity.

For more information see attached press release and executive summary or visit http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/dietaryguidelines.htm



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www.suagcenter.com

 

Available now - 2010 Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium Videos

Southern University Ag Center

Press Release

For Immediate Release
Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

Available now -2010 Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium Videos

BATON ROUGE, LA, January 21, 2011 - Links to videos of the 2010 Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium are now available on YouTube:

Hands-On Demonstrations: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbWXQ3YvT64


Awards Ceremony: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0gef9P4LTk

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www.suagcenter.com

Agricultural producers: NAP application deadline is February 29

Southern University Ag Center
Press Release
For Immediate Release

Contact: Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714

Agricultural producers: NAP application deadline is February 29

BATON ROUGE, LA, January 2011 - Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., said Louisiana producers have until Feb. 28 to apply for Noninsured Assistance Program (NAP) coverage for spring and summer seeded crops such as vegetables and grass for pasture and hay.

Strain stated that NAP provides protection from catastrophic natural disasters up to 50 percent of an established yield and 55 percent of an established price.

There are no provisions for late-filed applications. Closing dates vary by crop and are scheduled throughout the year. Producers should discuss their current year planting intention with their local Farm Service Agency office to ensure application deadlines are not missed.

Application fees are paid in each parish in which a producer has an interest in a crop at a cost of $250 per crop not to exceed $750 per parish and $1875 per producer for all parishes.

The Noninsured Assistance Program (NAP) is optional; however, it is required for all non-insurable crops for benefits received under the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments Program (SURE); Tree Assistance Program (TAP); Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP), and in some cases to acquire a production loan through FSA. The Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) requires coverage on grazing only.

All interested farmers and ranchers should contact the local FSA office for eligibility and application details before the application closing dates.

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www.suagcenter.com

SU Ag Center Employees Listen to Secretary Vilsack at National Conference

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Press release

SU Ag Center Employees Listen to Secretary Vilsack at National Conference

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 7, 2010

Contact: Bridget Udoh
Southern University Ag Center
225-771-5714
http://www.suagcenter.com/

Tuskegee, Alabama- USDA Secretary of Agriculture, the Honorable Tom Vilsack addressed attendees of the 68th Professional Agricultural Workers’ Conference (PAWC) at Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama on December 7. This year’s theme was Empowering Underserved Farmers and Rural Communities by Changing Legislation, USDA Eligibility Requirements, and Program Delivery.

Dr. Mellion-Patin conducted the 7th session of the Small Farmer Agriculture Leadership Institute as part of the pre-conference workshops, December 4-5. Class participants numbering more than 30 arrived from various states to attend PAWC, and two of them asked questions during the Q&A session with Secretary Vilsack.

Dr. Owusu Bandele, Professor Emeritus, horticulture and organic agriculture, SU Ag Center gave the George Washington Carver Public Service Hall of Fame Awards Banquet Lecture. Dr. Gina E. Eubanks presided over this event.

Conference participants representing Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center include: Dr. Gina Eubanks, Vice Chancellor for Extension, Dr. Dawn Mellion-Patin, Extension Specialist and Director of the Small Farmer Agriculture Leadership Institute, Dr. Bridget Udoh, Communications Specialist, Mrs. Zanetta Augustine, Extension Associate, Mr. Eugene Runles, Farm Superintendent, Ms. Lisa Gray, Research Associate and Mr. Terry Washington, Extension Agent (Rapides Parish).

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USDA Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights to Speak at Southern University

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Press release

Contact: Bridget Udoh
225-771-2242/225-771-5714
Date: October 29, 2010

USDA Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights to Speak at Southern University

Dr. Leonard

Baton Rouge, LA - Dr. Joe Leonard, USDA Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights is scheduled to speak at the Southern University's Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium on November 9, 2010. Dr. Leonard will give remarks on Tuesday, November 9 at 9:30 am at the Southern University Royal Cotillion Ballroom, Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. Leonard will address symposium participants including students, guests, staff, administrators, community and faculty members.

The Symposium will feature presentations and demonstrations from scientists and professionals working on the frontlines of global food security and plant biosecurity from Land-Grant Universities as well as various federal and state agencies.

The symposium will also feature graduate students' research in Global Food Security. An awards luncheon will be held on Tuesday to honor urban forestry graduate students for their outstanding achievements in Global Food Security. Students who completed Plant Biosecurity Internships during the summer of 2010 will receive a special recognition.

The Symposium is sponsored by the USDA/NIFA 1890 Capacity Building Grant awarded to Dr. Daniel Collins, entitled “Graduate Education and Training in Global Food Security and Agricultural Bio-security.” Collins is Professor of Plant Pathology in Urban Forestry Program at Southern University and A & M College, Baton Rouge. For further details, please contact Collins at: 225-771-2242 or via email: daniel_collins@subr.edu.

USDA Releases Report on the Impact of the Recovery Act on America's Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, Oct. 20, 2010 – USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Dallas Tonsager today issued a report on how the agency's distribution of loan and grant funds provided to the agency through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) has helped the Nation's rural residents. The report estimates that millions of business owners and agricultural producers; Internet users, and thousands of homeowners will benefit and over 300,000 jobs are being created or saved. The job estimates contained in the report are derived from recipient reported data or program-based economic models.

"With Rural Development's loans, grants, and loan-grant combination financing for new and existing programs, we have leveraged our Recovery Act funds to ensure the greatest bang for the taxpayer's buck, allowing our agency to make unprecedented and lasting investments in rural America," said Tonsager. "I am proud of what we have accomplished over the last two years towards building livable, innovative, and sustainable rural communities."

The entire report can be read at: http://www.usda.gov/documents/USDA_ARRA_AnnualReport_10192010.pdf

President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) into law last year. It is designed to jumpstart the Nation's economy, create or save millions of jobs and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century. The Act includes measures to modernize our nation's infrastructure, enhance energy independence, expand educational opportunities, preserve and improve affordable health care, provide tax relief, and protect those in greatest need. More information about USDA's efforts regarding the Recovery Act is available at www.usda.gov/recovery. More information about the Federal government's efforts on the economic stimulus is available at http://www.recovery.gov/

Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Press Release

Contact: Daniel Collins
225-771-2242
Daniel_Collins@subr.edu

Date: October 20, 2010

Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium

Baton Rouge, LA - Scientists and professionals who are working on the frontlines of Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity research will gather at Southern University and A & M College Baton Rouge, on November 9-10, 2010, to uncover potential threats to our nation’s natural resources and agriculture. They will participate in the university Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium.

“This symposium features presentations and demonstrations from researchers at universities, state and federal agencies that are monitoring high consequence plant pathogens, insect pests, invasive weeds that threaten our nation’s food security and renewable natural resources,” says Daniel Collins, professor of plant pathology and symposium organizer.

Workshop topics include:

Sudden Oak Death: A Threat to Our Forest Ecosystems
Strategies for Safeguarding American Plant Resources
Food Biosecurity and Fresh Produce Safety
Agro-Forestry Systems and Food Security
Exotic Pest Detection in Urban Environments
Mycotoxins and Food Safety

www.urbanforestry.subr.edu/biosecurity.htm

Southern University Ag Center Satellite Headquarters Set for Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Press Release

Contact: Christopher J. Rogers
225-771-2242
chris_rogers@suagcenter.com

Date: October 20, 2010

Southern University Ag Center Satellite Headquarters Set for Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Opelousas, LA - The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center will be having a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the new headquarters for the Southwest Center for Rural Initiatives (SCRI) on Wednesday, October 27 at 2:00 pm. The SCRI operates as a satellite entity of the SU Ag Center whose mission; in its land-grant role, is to conduct state-wide basic and applied research and to disseminate information to the citizens of Louisiana in a manner that is useful in addressing their scientific, technological, social, economic, and cultural needs. The SCRI serves a 10-parish region in Southwest Louisiana. Those parishes include: St. Landry, Lafayette, Vermilion, Acadia, St. Martin, Pointe Coupee, Avoyelles, Beauregard, Allen, and Evangeline. For the past five years, the SCRI has been housed in a temporary location at 242 S. Liberty Street in Opelousas. “This is a great day for the Southern University Ag Center! It’s been a long and tedious journey to this day,” says Chancellor Leodrey Williams. This accomplishment is due in part to the interest and tireless efforts of several elected, appointed and community leaders. The new headquarters is located at 1209 Diesi Street, Opelousas, LA 70570.

The SCRI was created as an extension of the Louisiana Center for Rural Initiatives. The Center coordinates and links university-based needs and strategies to address the current status of socioeconomic conditions, with particular emphasis on rural and persistent poverty areas.

- www.suagcenter.com-

Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium

Global Food Security and Plant Biosecurity Symposium


NOVEMBER 9-10, 2010


SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY - BATON ROUGE

The symposium is free and open to the public and media. Registration form, locations and schedules are posted online at http://www.urbanforestry.subr.edu/biosecurity.htm

Please click below to view flyer.

The Jaguar Nation gears up for the 20th Annual Radiothon

The Jaguar Nation gears up for the 20^th Annual Radiothon

http://www.sus.edu/

Seminar on Plant Pests

Seminar on urban plant pests will address trees, gardens and lawns. Flyer is displayed below: 

Group Suites and individual suite tickets are available for purchase NOW!

Bayou Classic group and individual suite tickets are available for purchase NOW!

Southern University students connect in Mayor’s beautification project

Southern University students connect in Mayor’s beautification project

Mayor-President Kip Holden recently announced plans to beautify the city of Baton Rouge. Students from Southern University and Louisiana State University have designed, and will take charge in executing the two beautification projects.

According to a plan created for The Green Light Beautification Program, students from Southern University's School of Urban Forestry will work on one project while LSU Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture students will work on the other. Each of the projects will cost $50,000 to complete.

Students from Southern University will improve the median on North Acadian Thruway between Winbourne and Chippewa Avenues by planting several southern live oak, bald cypress, and red maple trees. They will work under the supervision of Dr. Kamran Abdollahi, SU Ag Center scientist.

The LSU students will plant a rain garden at the I-10/Dalrymple interchange at the LSU Lakes, to replace the current lawn area, and other rain gardens along the lakeside to cleanse the storm water running into the lake.

The Green Light Plan was created to improve traffic for the city, and a portion of the funding was set aside for a physical facelift in some areas, creating the Beautification Program. In the last two years, the program has completed several beautification projects including the areas of Ashley Place on Marque Ann Drive, Melrose Place, The Lakes at Highland on Burbank Drive, Gus Young Avenue, and Corporate Boulevard.

Beware of Fall Army Worms

Beware of Fall Army Worms

Fall army worms are on the march in Louisiana, and heavy populations are causing major damage to lawns across the state. No lawn grass is immune to their attack.

Fall army worms can have up to four generations per year in Louisiana, and each generation takes about a month to complete its life cycle from egg to adult moth. In epidemic years, heavy moth flights can result in overlapping generations.

The larva or caterpillar stage lasts two to three weeks. The full-grown larvae are about 1-1.5 inches long, brown to green in color, with a prominent, inverted Y on the front of the head. They are called army worms because they move together in large numbers, just like an army.

Large caterpillars can devastate a turfgrass lawn’s foliage in just a few days. Areas affected by army worms in lawns may start small but rapidly expand in a few days. Damage resembles major scalping with a weed eater or lawn mower. Grass will grow back, but recovery will be slow. The damaged areas will be more susceptible to disease invasion this fall.

In urban areas, homeowners can treat their lawns when fall army worms threaten turf establishment or survival. Bermuda grass is normally the most susceptible lawn grass. Major infestations and damage have been found in Centipede grass and St. Augustine grass in the past month.

Insecticides recommended for control of insects on lawns are Acelepryn, Azatin XL, Battle GC, Mach 2, Lepinox WDG, Conserve SC, Talstar 10WP, Dylox, Condor XL, Crymax and Sevin.

Contact:
RONALD J. NICHOLAS, SR.
COUNTY AGENT
ST. LANDRY PARISH

Tel: 337-948-0561
E-mail: RNicholas@agcenter.lsu.edu

Morrill Inducted into USDA Hall of Heroes

Morrill Inducted into USDA Hall of Heroes

Today, Southern University is among the nation’s 18 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities because of the legislation introduced by Vermont Representative Smith Morrill in the “Agricultural College Act of 1890” as part of the Morrill Acts. The Morrill Land-Grant Acts allowed for the creation of land-grant colleges. The first Morrill Act was passed in 1862, and the second in 1890 to establish black land-grant colleges. The bill did not pass until Morrill proposed that the institutions would teach military tactics, engineering and agriculture.

In Washington, D.C., Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced five new inductees into the USDA Hall of Heroes, September 15. Established in September 2000, the USDA Hall of Heroes recognizes those that have had a lasting impact on agriculture and related programs. These leaders – both past and present – receive a permanent tribute for their contributions to agriculture. This year’s honorees include Justin Smith Morrill, Norman Berg, Thomas Monroe Campbell, Senator Tom Harkin, and Senator George McGovern.

"Each of these individuals has dedicated their public and private lives to improving various facets of food and agriculture," Vilsack said in a statement. "As a result, rural communities are stronger, people in America and throughout the world have abundant food, kids have access to more nutritious meals, and our public and private lands are better conserved. It is an honor to recognize and pay tribute to those who have contributed greatly not only to USDA, but also those who live in this great country."

Justin Smith Morrill (1810-1898) acted as the driving force behind the College Land-Grant Act, the legislation which laid the framework for the highly productive, science-based agricultural systems still in place today. This legislation, known as the Morrill Acts, is complete with two governing principles: the equality of opportunity and the utility of knowledge. The Land-Grant Acts helped set up the Nation's system of land-grant colleges, providing public land to each state that financed Agricultural Education. The second Morrill Act required that no funding be distributed to any state that differentiated education on the basis of race, or that did not issue funds equitably to parallel institutions.

Norman Berg, Thomas Monroe Campbell, Justin Smith Morrill, and Senators Tom Harkin and George McGovern have their names added to plaques featured at the Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building in Washington, D.C.

Seminar on European Fashion Study Tour

A seminar entitled "European Fashion Study Tour" will be presented by Dr. Doze Butler and three students on Thursday, September 23 at 3:30 pm in A.O. Williams Hall, room 191.  Please see attached flyer.   Hope to see you there. Thank you.

Focus: Insight On the SU Ag Center video

The "Focus: Insight On The SU Ag Center" video is out

Across Louisiana, there remains a need to improve the quality of life especially for residents with limited resources. This is where the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center steps in with its team of specialists to enhance the conditions of limited-resource and underserved families, businesses and farmers.

With TV viewers being bombarded with all the Big TV Fall Line-up of shows, please be sure to watch the Southern University Ag Center's program entitled, "Focus: Insight On The S U Ag Center." This edition of Focus Show targets some of the programs we offer the citizens of Louisiana. We also report on several research projects that are on-going at the SU Ag Center. Also, the SU System President, Dr. Ronald Mason makes a statement in one of our stories. Please watch the video online at: http://www.suagcenter.com/focus_show.html

This is one show you won't want to miss!

Only on Cox Cable Metro 21 (channel 21) - Baton Rouge, LA

Television air times:

Wed, September 15th @ 8:00PM

Sun, September 19th @ 8:30PM

Stay tuned!

USDA Awards Grants to 18 Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Southern University was among the top universities that captured the highest number of 12 funded projects and placed fourth in the funding amount of $2,881,820 in the Capacity Building Grant Program.


On September 9, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that 18 Historically Black Colleges and Universities received grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to strengthen their research, teaching, and extension capabilities.

Grants totaling more than $50 million were awarded through the department’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture which supports historically Black institutions designated as land-grant universities. This year, the institute awarded $32,514,064 through the Capacity Building Grants Program and $18,979,200 through the Facilities Grants Program to the 18 institutions.

“Our 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities play a critical role teaching students to meet the high quality, innovative research needs that are vital to the wellbeing of our nation’s food, fuel and fiber,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said during the announcement. “These awards mark a substantial investment in addressing the robust and varied research challenges facing the American agriculture today, but more importantly it is also an investment in our future scientists and engineers, farmers and foresters.”

For more details, please visit the National Institute of Food and Agriculture at:
http://www.nifa.usda.gov/newsroom/news/2010news/09091_hbcu.html

Back-to-School Summit. Theme: "Healthy Youth-Healthy Future."

When: Fri, September 10, 8:30am – 2:00pm


Where: William H. Scott Memorial Civic Center, New Roads, Pointe Coupee Parish (map)

Event Description: This parish-wide event for 8th graders is a collaborative effort between the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center- through its Southwest Center for Rural Initiatives, the Louisiana Department of Education, and 40 other non-profit organizations, state agencies, local municipal governments, and businesses. This year’s speakers include: DEN HUSSEY, Motivational Speaker; Danna Andrus, “Dr. Truth”; RANI WHITFIELD, MD “Tha Hip Hop Doc”; HOLLIS CONWAY, Two-time Olympic Medalist; and BYRON STARKS, Coach & Mentor.

For more information, contact the Southwest Center for Rural Initiatives at 337- 943-2410 or email Edna Lastrapes at Edna_lastrapes@suagcenter.com

Ag Leadership Institute members appointed to USDA Committee

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced the appointment of members to Beginning Farmer Committee on August 12. Out of the 11 appointees, two of them are members of the SU Ag Center Small Farmer Agricultural Leadership Institute. Luciano Alvarado of North Carolina is a graduate of the 2nd class and Frances Benton Gibson of South Carolina is a member of the Institute’s 3rd class.

“One of the primary goals of the Leadership Institute is to develop leaders and advocates for the small farm community, and I am of the opinion that both of these individuals will be excellent representatives,” said Dawn Mellion-Patin, Agricultural Specialist and Institute program director.

http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentidonly=true&contentid=2010/08/0405.xml