- Project No: 2023 - 70508 - 40531
USDA NextGen Grant Project
Developing the Next Generations of Minority Leaders in Pest Management for Food and Agriculture in a Changing Climate
- Funding Amount: $10,000,000
Overview:
This USDA Next Gen supported initiative addresses the educational and workforce development needs of minority students pursuing careers in pest management,
insect science, and food and agricultural systems. The project is designed to reduce barriers to entry, increase awareness of agricultural career pathways, and
provide students with scholarships, mentorship, professional development, paid internships, entrepreneurship skills, and experiential learning opportunities.
Project Summary:
For decades, pest management has faced declining student enrollment, especially at minority-serving institutions, even as agriculture continues to experience
growing challenges from invasive pests, plant diseases, and climate-related disruptions. This project was created to help build a stronger and more diverse
workforce by equipping students with academic support, practical experience, and industry-connected opportunities. The initiative also reflects strong
collaboration among FAMU, Fort Valley State University, the University of Florida, USDA partners, FDACS, and pest control industry stakeholders.
Objectives:
- Build a pipeline for recruiting and training minority students in pest management and food security
- Provide funding, professional development, leadership skills, and mentorship to students pursuing careers in pest management
- Utilize experiential learning opportunities to foster interest in pest management
- Increase awareness of career pathways in agricultural sciences leading to employment for the USDA workforce
What Students Receive :
- Scholarships
- Leadership development
- Professional mentoring
- Paid internships
- Entrepreneurship development
- Experiential learning
- Networking and certification opportunities
Community and Student Impact:
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students engaged across college and secondary levels
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increase in enrollment through partnership-building and expanded pathways
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students introduced to entomology during Insect Science Week
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students received hands-on training and certifications
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festivals and community events reached through outreach
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high schools connected to entomology club development
Award-winning student outcomes at the MANRRS Conference and ARD Symposium
Testimonials:
Our Partners:
