SU Ag Center Receives $200,000 For Programming & Research Projects

Southern University Ag Center

Baton Rouge, La. – The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center and the College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences (CAHES) received $200,000 during a special presentation on November 29, 2024 at the Southern University Board of Supervisors annual meeting in New Orleans.

The Ag Center and CAHES received $150,000 from the Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation to support three research projects in Aquaculture, SUN Beef, and Hibiscus.

These initiatives hold significant promise in making strides in improving agricultural practices, enhancing sustainability, and fostering economic development within our communities.

“This marks the second such contribution from the Brown Foundation, underscoring their steadfast commitment to advancing agricultural research, innovation, and youth agricultural literacy with our legendary BAYOU Summer Program,” said Robert Easly, Jr., Director of Advancement at the SU Ag Center.

The Ag Center also received $50,000 from the Mosaic Company. The funding will empower multiple impactful initiatives, including our Precision Agcademy Drone Certification Program, scholarships for aspiring students in CAHES, and the 82nd Annual State Livestock and Poultry Show.

The Ag Center's Drone Certification Program is paving the way for youth, minority farmers, and others to obtain commercial drone certifications. This initiative opens doors to opportunities in digital media, agriculture and conservation, real estate, and other career opportunities.

The donation will also support the second phase of the Ag Cener’s transformative Out the Mud Program, which equips at-risk youth with essential skills in landscape horticulture, nutrition, vegetable gardening, and life skills. Over four successful cohorts, 20% of the program’s participants have transitioned into agricultural careers, with some expressing a desire to pursue agriculture degrees at Southern University. To support these passionate students, the Out the Mud Roots Scholarship will provide funding to help them achieve their academic and career aspirations in agriculture.

“We are honored to acknowledge the Mosaic Company for their incredible generosity and continued partnership with the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center,” expressed Easly. “Mosaic’s investment exemplifies their commitment to fostering innovation, education, and community growth,” he added.

The SU Ag Center and CAHES are also proud to celebrate Mosaic’s recent induction as a Founding Member of the Morrill Society, the Ag Center and College of Agriculture's premier donor and advisory circle. This distinction reflects their leadership in advancing agricultural education and outreach.

“We are grateful to the Joe W. & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation and the Mosaic Company for their continued support and partnership in empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders, driving advancements in agriculture, and community well-being. These partnerships continue to inspire innovative research, transform lives, and strengthen our communities,” stated Easly.

For information on ways to support the work of the Southern University Ag Center and the College of Ag, contact Robert Easly, Jr., at robert_easly@suagcenter.com.