MILESTONES IN MOTION The Research and Demonstrations Complex Journey Toward Transformation. Page 16
FROM THE DIRECTOR Dear reader,
Land-Grant Tripartite Mission As an 1890 Land-Grant University, Central State University is committed to serving its constituents via its tripartite mission of Extension, Research, and Teaching.
Welcome to the Winter 2026 issue of Central State University’s Central Ag Focus. I’m delighted to share this season’s stories and the momentum we’re building across campus and in communities across Ohio. Our cover story celebrates the Research and Demonstration Complex, a project moving steadily from blueprint to reality. The current phase centers on the Agricultural Research Building, which will house soil and water, food science and nutrition, smart ag tech, and a shared core instrumentation lab. Demonstration plots and a farm equipment storage facility will support hands-on learning and Extension field days. Recent milestones foundation work, utility rough ins, site grading, parking lighting, and an illuminated monument sign show steady progress. The facility will become partially operational in spring 2026. Office, meeting, and public spaces on the first floor will be available. The storage facility will follow as it is expected to be operational in summer 2026. Construction of additional labs will proceed during Spring and Summer and are expected to be fully functional by the Fall semester of 2026. The RDC brings research, teaching and extension together to fulfil the University’s tripartite Land-Grant mission, train students as the next generation of agriculture professionals, support farmers and spark entrepreneurship. This issue also highlights the people and programs that bring our tripartite mission to life: summer camps that spark curiosity, 4-H experiences that build head, heart, hands and health, and Seed-to- Bloom’s blend of STEM and soil work. You will also read about efforts to strengthen ties with the Black Indigenous People of Color Food and Farming Network , farmers, Money Smart workshops that boost financial resilience, and student internships that turn classroom learning into real-world impact. CSU students are gaining hands-on experience through paid internships and innovative research projects in areas such as honeybee genomics, nutrition and human health, plant molecular science, and soil, water and sustainable agriculture, preparing them for graduate study and STEM careers and industry workforce. Their work is guided by CSU faculty and external research partners, including featured insights from Six Questions for the Researcher: Craig Schluttenhofer, Ph.D., highlighting ongoing hemp research and its real-world impact. We also celebrate personal journeys from Fast Track Farming stories to student research profiles that connect research and community health. Thank you to our faculty, staff, students and partners for your dedication as together, we embark on our tripartite mission as an 1890 Land-Grant Institution. Enjoy this newsmagazine issue, share the stories, and take pride in the progress we’re making together.
Wishing you a happy and healthy new year.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jose U. Toledo Vice President for Research and Economic Development Director, 1890 Land-Grant Programs
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Summer Camp
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Securing Connections
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Adventures Spark Curiosity in Agriculture.
One Property At a Time.
Milestones in Motion
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Cultivating Connections CSU Strenghtens Ties with BIPOC Farmers. Head, Heart, Hands, Health 4-H Summer Values Shine at Discovery Day Camp STEM, Soil, and Self Discipline aA Transformative Week at Seed-T0-Bloom Camp
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The RDC’s Journey Towards Transformation.
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Unlock Your Health
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Join CSU’s Free Nutrigenomics Program
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Research Briefs
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Rajveer Dhillon, Ph.D. Six Questions For The Researcher
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A Full Circle Moment
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Craig Schluttenhofer, Ph.D.
Alvin Wilkerson’s Fast Track Farming Jourmey
Rooted in Rhythm
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Money Smart
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How The Kamille Austin Finds Her Voice.
Connecting Farmers to Financial Success
Innovations and Internships
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She, Me, Her
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Student Reflections on Internships and Research Experience.
Because No Mother Should Walk Alone
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As an 1890 Land-Grant institution, Central State University serves its constituents and communities through the delivery of highly impactful extension programs. Extension programs at CSU are research and evidence- based, designed to respond to stakeholder needs and societal challenges. CSU Extension focuses on underserved and underrepresented populations to help build sustainability and resilience in the communities. CSU Extension provides programming in 42 Ohio counties in four program areas: 4-H Youth Development, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Community and Economic Development, and Family and Consumer Science.
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Summer Camp Adventures Spark Curiosity in Agriculture
NextGen campers harvesting raspberries in raspberry research field on CSU campus.
Twenty-one high school students spent two weeks on Central State University’s campus last summer, trading textbooks for lab coats and field boots as part of the NextGen in Ag summer program, June 16-27, 2025. Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture Next Generation program, the camp mixed career exploration, hands-on research and workforce development. The camp participants were able to participate in research activities in laboratories with the research scientists. This experience provided an opportunity to explore careers in food science, plant genetics and breeding, agricultural and food policy, and sustainable agriculture. In the apiculture lab Dr. Hongmei Li-Byarlay, and campers examined beehive health and learned why mite-resistant breeding matters to beekeepers. In plant biology lab with Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer, they handled hemp seed trials and discussed the regulatory and market realities that shape crop choices. Dr. Rajveer Dhillon’s raspberry plots offered a break from microscopes: students learned precision-planting techniques and harvested raspberries, a simple moment that made the science feel immediate, rewarding, and tasty. “Harvesting fruit and then discussing the data behind it made everything click,” said one camper, who described how a morning in the raspberry field turned abstract lessons about collecting data for research into the realization that this research will help help farmers and address societal issues such as food insecurity. Nutrigenomics sessions with Dr. Pratibha Gupta introduced students to the links between diet and gene expression, while Dr. Marcus Nagle’s work on crop pollinators and the silflower showed how pollinator health underpins both research and farm productivity. Each rotation included lab safety, data collection and discussions about career paths in extension, research and agribusiness. Central State University Extension staff helped the students learn about the link between the
research and other camp activities to potential agricultural careers for the youth. “Students weren’t just watching demonstrations, they were allowed the opportunity to research, explore, and discover viable options for solutions.” said Janet Corne’y, Interim 4-H Program Leader for CSU Extension. “There’s more to hands-on experiences that meets the eye. It’s what helps them imagine themselves in these roles.” As a program that focuses on workforce development, the youth learned technical skills that will be applicable to future careers. CSU Extension staff led sessions in professional communication, such as public speaking, to help the campers learn soft skills that will help them be successful as they move from classroom learning to a career. “We want campers to leave with more than a certificate of completion,” said Nathan Hart, a CSU student and Extension camp coordinator. “We want them to leave with a network, a resume and a sense of what the day-to-day looks like in an agricultural career .” . The NextGen program is part of Central State’s broader effort to open pathways into agricultural science for students from underrepresented communities through mentorship and experiential learning. For many participants, the two weeks were a first look at research careers and a chance to picture themselves in the workforce that supports local food systems, urban and rural economies and community health. The opportunity to spend time on Central State University campus, participate in activities on the research and demonstration farm, have experience in state-of-the-art laboratories and have conversations with faculty were impactful moments that will have a lasting real-world impression on these young minds.
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Soluptaecto eaturias nossit prerunt qui asperibus autemol
The fifth annual Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) Food and Farming Network Conference drew nearly 200 attendees to Central State University’s Dayton campus on Sept. 20, capping off a two-day gathering that celebrated community, innovation, and agricultural empowerment. Participants traveled from across Ohio and as far away as Texas, Alabama, and Florida to take part in the event, which featured a special tour of CSU’s Wilberforce campus on Friday, Sept. 19. The tour included stops at the Aquaponics Center, Seed to Bloom Botanical and Community Garden, sweet potato demonstration lot, corn-breeding lab, and hemp lab—each selected for its relevance to the visiting farmers and the availability of CSU researchers to engage directly with them.
“The idea grew out of the ongoing goal of the BFFN conference to create deeper connections between farmers, researchers, and the resources available through CSU’s Land-Grant mission,” said Alvin Wilkerson, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator. “Many BIPOC farmers and community growers expressed interest in understanding what research was happening locally and how it could be applied on their farms.” “It’s always fun to talk to a tour group about our research, but it’s always a little bit more when the group is engaging with questions. And that’s exactly what we had when we got to meet the BIPOC group,” said Luke Farno, Ph.D., research associate professor and crop- breeding expert. “You could see that they took a real interest in what we were doing and how it could affect/help them.”
Welcoming seven BIPOC members at their first stop at the Aquaponics Center on Sept. 19, Dr. Jose Toledo, vice president for Research and Economic Development and Director of the 1890 Land-Grant Programs, told them to ask probing questions of CSU research professors they would meet during their tour to challenge them. The researchers would welcome their curiosity about their agricultural research projects, he said. Jada Williams, chair of the 2025 conference and owner of Fresh Roots Farm, echoed that sentiment. “Every year we look for ways to help our members connect more deeply with local agriculture,” she said. “This year, we offered a tour of CSU’s labs and demonstration plots in response to BIPOC farmers and community growers wanting to see what research is happening locally and how it could support their farms.”
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“The goal of our research is to give farmers an alternative crop to grow that could help them improve their enterprises. And when you get questions more about the meaning behind your
research, you know they understand this and are excited to know more.”
-Luke Farno
“The goal of our research is to give farmers an alternative crop to grow that could help them improve their enterprises,” Farno said. “And when you get questions more about the meaning behind your research, you know they understand this and are excited to know more.” For many attendees, the visit marked their first direct engagement with CSU’s research facilities. The experience left a lasting impression. “The visit was highly significant,” Wilkerson said. “It allowed BIPOC farmers to see themselves reflected and valued within the Land-Grant system, and it highlighted CSU’s commitment to serving historically underserved communities.”
“Williams noted the impact on the network’s members: “The visit gave us a firsthand look at local research and how it applies to the work that we do! It sparked new ideas, connected us with helpful resources, and strengthened our network with other BIPOC farmers and CSU faculty.” “The goal of our research is to give farmers an alternative crop to grow that could help them improve their enterprises. And when you get questions more about the meaning behind your research, you know they understand this and are excited to know more.” BIPOC members walked away with practical insights and a renewed sense of connection to CSU’s ongoing agricultural programming, Wilkerson said. “Visitors left with a better understanding of CSU’s research priorities,
practical insights they could take back to their farms, and a sense of how to stay connected with ongoing Land-Grant programming,” he added. Farno echoed Wilkerson’s sentiments. “It shows that once you get to a place where you have a product ready for farmers to use there are farmers who are excited to use it. And that makes it all worth it,” according to Farno. Williams said the tour’s resonance with BIPOC members made the visit memorable. “Seeing the labs and demonstration plots in action really stood out. Being able to ask questions and see research applied on the ground made it practical and meaningful for the work we are doing at home.”
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Head, Heart, Hands, Health 4-H Values Shine at Discovery Day Camp
Part of a Larger Summer of Growth
Discovery Day Camp was one of several transformative summer programs hosted by Central State University Extension, each designed to nurture Ohio youth through experiential learning. Together, these camps created a continuum of growth opportunities for students of all ages. Seed to Bloom Ag-STEM Institute (Grades 6–8): A five-day residential camp at Central State University where 30 middle school students explored sustainable agriculture, drone technology, and environmental science. Campers learned soil health, composting, crop planning, and personal safety in the field. The highlight was the Gardening with Grace curriculum, led by Terry Grace, a retired U.S. Army sergeant and agricultural mentor, who taught stewardship and career pathways in agriculture. Next Generation Camp (Grades 9–10): Focused on entrepreneurship, leadership, and college readiness, this camp challenged older youth to think about their futures. Projects included planting more than 80 tomato and pepper plants, which were later processed and sold, teaching campers about food systems and business skills. Ag-STEM Institute Residential Camp: High school students engaged in advanced agricultural practices, connecting STEM learning to workforce readiness. From drone mapping to crop planning, participants gained hands-on experience that linked classroom knowledge to real- world applications.
4-H camp participants creating meaningful crafts during a camp session.
Discovery Day Camp 2025, held June 7–11, brought together 22 campers for a five- day journey rooted in the 4-H pledge of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The camp emphasized creativity, service, and fun, offering experiences that helped children grow as individuals and as members of their community. Campers explored nature through walks, treasure hunts, and environmental crafts, while teamwork and problem-solving flourished in activities like the 4-H Treasure Hunt. Reflection circles and affirmation exercises encouraged kindness and empathy, culminating in a service project where campers made no-sew blankets for families affected by recent floods. Creativity was at the heart of the week, with projects ranging from ocean art and birdhouse feeders to gemstone jewelry and storytelling. Campers learned to value imagination and resourcefulness, while health and wellness were reinforced through jump rope workshops, basketball, fitness challenges, and healthy snacks.
Lessons in gratitude and inclusion were highlighted when a winning team shared their treasure with everyone, underscoring the camp’s spirit of generosity. By week’s end, participants left with new skills, lasting friendships, and a deeper appreciation for service and community. Across all CSU Extension camps, the themes of creativity, service, leadership, and STEM exploration were woven together. Younger campers at Discovery Day Camp learned the importance of kindness and teamwork, while middle and high school students at Seed to Bloom and Next Generation camps built on those foundations with advanced skills in agriculture, technology, and entrepreneurship. Together, these programs reflect CSU Extension’s commitment to preparing Ohio youth for success planting seeds of curiosity and confidence that will bloom into future leaders, innovators, and community builders.
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STEM, Soil, and Self-Discipline: A Transformative Week at Seed to Bloom Camp
The Seed to Bloom Camp at Central State University offered a transformative, five- day (June 16-20) residential experience for 30 middle school students across Ohio, focusing on agriculture, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), leadership, and career exploration. The camp provided hands-on learning in sustainable agriculture, drone technology, and environmental science, with students participating in activities such as soil health, composting, crop planning, and personal safety in the field. The highlight of the camp was the Gardening with Grace curriculum, where campers learned agricultural practices and environmental stewardship from Terry Grace, a retired U.S. Army sergeant, farmer, and agricultural career mentor and environmental scientist.
Beyond agriculture, the camp offered enriching experiences in leadership and cultural awareness. Campers explored careers in STEM and entrepreneurship through projects like planting more than 80 tomato and pepper plants, which will be processed and sold. A trip to the Colonel Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument provided inspiration, while a motivational session with world-renowned jump rope champion Shawn Hamilton taught perseverance and self-discipline. The week culminated in a final showcase where campers presented their group projects, demonstrating the skills and confidence they gained. This camp provided students with hands-on opportunities with research professors in various disciplines, in- cluding sustainable agriculture, drone technology, and environmental science.
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A Full Circle Moment: Alvin Wilkerson’s Fast Track Farming Journey
Alvin Wilkerson, now serving as an Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator for Central State University Extension (CSUE), began his agricultural journey in a community garden he tended with his family. Although he had no formal agricultural education at the time, his hands- on involvement in local gardening projects fostered a growing interest in sustainable food systems. Encouraged by a friend, Wilkerson enrolled in CSUE’s Fast Track Farming program a decision that would prove to be transformative both personally and professionally. Its engaging curriculum and supportive environment made a lasting impression on Wilkerson. While he appreciated the technical instruction, he emphasized that the most impactful aspect was the sense of community fostered among participants and mentors. The program’s structure, particularly at the Edgemont host site, offered a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application that gave Wilkerson the confidence to imagine agriculture as a long- term vocation. As Wilkerson became more involved, his initial curiosity deepened into a purposeful commitment to agriculture. There was no singular defining moment of realization; instead, it was a series of cumulative experiences, workdays, workshops, and thoughtful conversations that gradually redirected his career path. These interactions eventually led Wilkerson and several program graduates to co-found NuSol Farms, an urban
regenerative agriculture initiative rooted in principles of sustainability and community resilience.
Emphasizing patience and lifelong learning, he helps students understand that growth is as much about personal development as it is about crop cultivation.
In December 2024, Wilkerson joined CSUE as the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator in the Southwestern Ohio region. This role marked a significant milestone in his professional journey. Having once been a student in the same program, Wilkerson described his transition into an educator as a “full-circle moment,” filled with both gratitude and purpose. His appointment reflected the university’s land-grant mission of extending educational resources to underrepresented populations, an ethos that closely aligned with his values. “Give it a try. Even if you aren’t sure or don’t feel ready, you never know what door might open or what lesson might prepare you for your next step.” -Alvin Wilkerson
Over time, Wilkerson has witnessed transformative shifts in his students, observing increased self-confidence and a growing respect for environmental stewardship. These changes, whether reflected in improved farming practices or deeper self-awareness, reinforce his commitment to education and community-based agriculture. As an alumnus of the Fast Track Farming Program, Wilkerson views his role as both an educator and cultural steward. He is particularly passionate about reframing the narrative surrounding Black Americans and their role in agriculture. For Wilkerson, reconnecting communities with the land represents not just historical reclamation but also a pathway to collective resilience and improved quality of life. To those considering enrollment in the Fast Track Farming program, Wilkerson offers thoughtful advice: “Give it a try. Even if you aren’t sure or don’t feel ready, you never know what door might open or what lesson might prepare you for your next step.”
Wilkerson’s experience as a former program participant informs his approach to mentoring new cohorts. He is intentional about creating inclusive and non-intimidating learning spaces and encourages students to view agriculture as a broad and dynamic field.
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Money Smart Connects Farmers and Families to Financial Success
Central State University Extension’s Community and Economic Development educators are turning classroom training into measurable community impact by delivering FDIC Money Smart financial literacy workshops tailored for Ohio’s farmers, families and small-business owners The instructor-led Money Smart for Adults curriculum, organized into 14 modules, and the Money Smart for Small Business curriculum, with 13 modules are being offered in flexible series that range from four to 13 sessions to meet local needs. Educators say the hands-on workshops help participants build budgets, improve credit management, strengthen banking relationships and apply financial tools directly to farm and small- business operations.
“Financial literacy is more than numbers ait’s about empowering families and farmers to build lasting success,” said Stephen Washington, Community and Economic Development educator at CSU Extension. “When participants leave with a plan they can use on their farm or at home, that’s when we see real change.” Mark Rendleman, CED program leader, said the program’s impact shows up in practical outcomes and stronger community ties. “We’re seeing participants adopt budgeting habits, ask better questions about credit and banking, and take concrete steps to stabilize their operations,” Rendleman said. “That momentum helps families and farm businesses make decisions that improve their bottom line and long-term resilience.” Workshops have been adapted for community centers, farm groups and partner organizations across the state, and educators report that many attendees — including first-time visitors to CSU research facilities — leave with actionable next steps and connections to ongoing Land-Grant resources. The Money Smart for Small Business modules have been integrated into small-farm entrepreneurship programming to help producers with recordkeeping, cash-flow planning and credit reporting.
CED educator Stephen Washington and workshop participant Michelle Cobbin.
For more information or to schedule a workshop, contact Mark Rendleman, CED program leader, at mrendleman@centralstate.edu.
CED Money Smart financial literacy workshop participants hold- ing certificates of completion, Akron, Ohio.
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She, Me, Her Because No Mother Should Walk Alone
Central State University Extension Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Program Leader Renita Porter (left) joined FCS Educators Kylee Peoples (center) and Jewell Rollins at the Shades of Blue– Black Maternal Mental Health Summit held in Houston, Texas, July 24–25.
For many expectant mothers, pregnancy is a time of anticipation, transformation, and, often, uncertainty. From navigating fluctuating hormones and changing bodies to balancing work, family and health appointments, the maternal journey can be overwhelming. Recognizing the, importance of addressing the health disparity for expectant and new mothers in underserved areas, Central State University Extension (CSUE) has launched the “She, Me, and Her Maternal Health Program,” a comprehensive and free program providing critical support to pregnant and postpartum women to provide access to resources and assistance. Launched on June 1, the program is already connecting women to virtual and in-person services that empower them throughout their pregnancy journey and into the postpartum period. Designed with accessibility, compassion and evidence-based care at its core, the program brings together certified doulas, licensed dietitians, nutrition educators and the CSUE’s Health Education Mobile Unit (HEMU), with the goal to ensure that no mother faces this transition alone.
far more than physical changes. Women face emotional shifts, social adjustments and, at times, financial or logistical barriers to quality care. According to health experts, the foundation for safe and healthy pregnancies lies in a robust support system. One that includes emotional guidance, nutrition education, consistent check-ins, and culturally competent care. Providing this support and assistance is critical for communities with health disparities. The “She, Me, and Her” program addresses these needs head-on. Participants receive up to four virtual sessions with a certified doula one per trimester and one postpartum to ensure consistent, professional and personalized support. These sessions offer emotional reassurance, informational guidance and birth preparation, giving mothers and their partners confidence and clarity during a vulnerable time. When expectant mothers have access to trusted, culturally relevant information, they are better equipped to make informed choices for themselves and their babies. That’s why the program also includes a virtual coaching session with a licensed dietitian, who provides tailored advice on prenatal nutrition and healthy eating habits.
“Nutrition plays such a vital role in pregnancy and postpartum healing,” said Donna Kuykendall, Regional Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) Educator for the Southwest Region. “Our classes are designed to be both accessible and applicable, helping women maintain energy, promote fetal development, and recover more effectively after childbirth.” In addition to virtual coaching, program participants may attend in-person or virtual nutrition classes, and for added flexibility access on-site doula services through CSUE’s Health Education Mobile Unit (HEMU), which travels to events or offers one-on-one appointments directly in the community free of charge. the “She, Me, and Her” program offers a holistic care model that focuses on the full experience of pregnancy physical, emotional, mental and social.
Pregnancy and postpartum recovery involve
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“ Our approach nurtures the whole person. Pregnancy is not one-dimensional, and neither should the care be. We offer support that meets the women where they are whether virtually, in the classroom or in their own neighborhoods.”
-Kylee Peoples
Jewell Rollins, Extension Educator and Doula for Northwest and Northeast Ohio, sees the program as a vital intervention in maternal health equity. “We know that disparities in maternal outcomes often stem from gaps in access to support, to education, to trust,” Rollins said. “This program is about changing that. From doulas offering emotional reassurance to dietitians giving nutrition strategies, we’re creating an environment where women are supported every step of the way.” Kylee Peoples, Extension Educator and Doula for Southern and Southwest Ohio, echoed that sentiment. “Our approach nurtures the whole person,” she said. “Pregnancy is not one- dimensional, and neither should the care be. We offer support that meets women where they are whether virtually, in the classroom or in their own neighborhoods.” Doulas involved in the program provide more than labor preparation; they are trained advocates for maternal wellness. Their support ranges from prenatal planning to postpartum recovery, helping mothers feel seen, heard and valued. Meanwhile, licensed dietitians address a range of pregnancy-related challenges, including managing gestational diabetes, improving iron intake and preparing for lactation. Their guidance helps mothers create sustainable, healthy habits that extend
into family life after birth.
ongoing program, which continues throughout the year. Regional educators are available to assist with enrollment and to answer questions:
This collaborative care model, uniting doulas, dietitians and Extension educators promotes a culture of respect, empowerment and informed decision-making, which is essential for long- term health outcomes. The program is designed to support expectant and new mothers and is in addition to the care received from medical professionals. “She, Me, and Her” reflects Central State University Extension’s larger mission: advancing community well-being through education and outreach that is equitable, culturally relevant and rooted in real-world needs. The initiative, led by CSUE’s Family and Consumer Sciences department, prioritizes reaching rural, urban, and underserved populations that often lack access to consistent maternal support. “Our goal is to make health care education not only available, but approachable,” said Rollins. “We want women to know that they don’t need to go through this alone. Through community partnerships, mobile outreach and flexible scheduling, we are building a network of care and connection.”
Southern and Southwest Ohio
Kylee Peoples, Extension Educator and Doula Phone: 937-972-3077 Email: kpeoples1@centralstate.edu
Northwest and Northeast Ohio
Jewell Rollins, Extension Educator and Doula Phone: 937-972-3073 Email: jrollins@centralstate.edu
Northeast Region.
Elizabeth Schweigert Dietitian Regional Extension Educator Phone 330-268-9107 Eschweigert@centralstate.edu
Southwest Region
Donna Kuykendall, EFNEP & FCS Educator Phone: 937-993-2586 Email: dkuykendall@centralstate.edu
Expectant mothers across Ohio can still join the
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Securing Connections One Property At A Time
wealth,” Rendleman explains. “Our goal is to reach and support Ohio fam- ilies, empowering them to secure their assets and improve their communities” All CED educators have undergone com- prehensive training and are now ready to start working directly with Ohio families. A primary strategy involves educating residents on completing “transfer on death affidavits,” legal documents that allow property transfer without the need for probate. The CED team plans to collaborate with local organizations to make these legal tools and resources available to residents at accessible locations, including food pantries, churches, and community events.
Central State University Extension’s Com- munity and Economic Development (CED) program is set to launch a significant initia- tive across Ohio to address the intricate issue of heirs’ property. Heirs’ property is defined as real estate passed down through genera- tions without probate, resulting in multiple ownership and complex title issues. This often leads to property deterioration and obstructs pathways to generational wealth; a barrier particularly pronounced in low-income com- munities. An estimated 9,000 heirs’ properties exist in Ohio. The CED program, led by State- wide Program Leader Mark Rendleman, is designed to alleviate the legal and financial challenges surrounding heirs’ property, ulti- mately clarifying ownership and promoting generational wealth. “This program aims to address the legal and financial challenges of heirs’ property, facilitating clear ownership and unlocking the potential for generational
“This program aims to address the legal and
financial challenges of heirs’ property, facilitating clear ownership and unlocking the potential for generational wealth.”
-Mark Rendleman
For further information, contact CED Statewide Program Leader Mark Rendleman at mrendleman@centralstate.edu.
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As an 1890 Land-Grant university, Central State University designs and implements research programs that are innovative, highly responsive to its stakeholder needs, and address societal challenges. The discovery and development of new knowledge through basic research is transformative when translated into applied research that provides practical solutions.
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Milestones in Motion
The Research and Demonstration Complex’s journey toward transformation
Bathed in winter light and framed by fresh snowfall, Central State University’s Research and Demonstration Complex rises as a beacon of innovation and purpose. With its sleek architecture and newly unveiled monument sign, the RDC stanads as a bold testament to CSU’s Land-Grant mission, where research meets opportunity, and vision becomes reality.
Central State University’s Research and Demonstration Complex (RDC) is steadily transforming from blueprint to reality. Featured in the spring 2025 issue of Central Ag Focus, the RDC is more than a construction project. It represents a bold vision for agricultural innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. The RDC is designed as a multi-phase, large-scale project that embodies CSU’s Land-Grant mission while serving as the cornerstone of its public-private partnership ecosystem. “The RDC is not just about buildings,” said Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, CSU’s 10th president and longtime advocate for research and economic development. “It is about creating opportunities for students, faculty and communities to engage in cutting-edge research and technology transfer. Our Land-Grant mission demands that we serve, and this complex ensures we do so with impact.”
“The RDC is where research meets applications and translates into economic opportunities,” Toledo said. “We are building the much-needed physical infrastructure that will allow us to train the next generation of agricultural professionals, while also fostering entrepreneurship and workforce readiness.” The current facility being built at the RDC is the Agricultural Research Building. Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, associate director of Research and Economic Development, is coordinating the establishment of state-of-the-art laboratories, including soil and water; food science and nutrition; smart agricultural technologies; a core shared instrumentation lab; and other expertise associated with plant biotechnology and genomics. This is how CSU contributes to Ohio’s economic future.
Mark Taylor, Facilities and Capital Assets Manager at CSU, highlighted the steady progress and the importance of staying on schedule despite challenges. “Construction is always a long game,” Taylor said. “We’ve hit key milestones from pouring foundations to installing the monument sign, and each step brings us closer to opening doors for students and researchers. Despite some challenges, our teams remain focused on delivering a facility that will stand the test of time.” Recent months have brought visible progress. In September, crews poured concrete foundation walls and roughed-in plumbing lines for the Farm Equipment Storage Facility. In addition to providing storage and shop area for equipment repairs, this structure will provide covered, dry space for Extension and Research field days activities when Ohio’s unpredictable weather threatens outdoor activities. At the Research Facility, parking lot lighting was installed, and final site grading and seeding were completed. In October, a new illuminated monument sign was added to identify the RDC. The exterior and a 10,000-square-foot interior build-out remain on track for completion in December. Both facility projects are still on schedule.
The RDC also provides space for demonstration plots and projects to provide Ohio farmers with opportunities to learn more about new and emerging technologies for their farms.
Dr. Jose Toledo, vice president for Research and Economic Development and director of 1890 Land-Grant Programs, emphasized the RDC’s role in bridging research and public service.
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A
New Monument Sign Lights Up RDC
Gateway to Discovery
Central Lobby Readies for Spring Opening
Workers install a new illuminated monument sign identifying the Research and Demonstration Complex at Central State University in October 2025; the sign marks the building’s public entrance and helps orient visitors to the campus research hub
Interior crews finish work in the central lobby of the Research Facility, which will open in Spring 2026 as a staffed reception and wayfinding hub with flexible seating, exhibit space for campus research and community displays, digital signage, and secure access to adjacent research offices and the shared core lab.
Technicians ready Core Lab 146 inside the Research and Demonstration Complex, a shared core facility slated to open in Spring 2026 that will house specialized instrumentation, support research teams across disciplines, and be staffed by lab managers and research personnel to coordinate equipment use and training. Together, President Kuti and his team are shaping a future where CSU’s RDC stands as a hub of innovation, partnership and progress. With each milestone, the illuminated monument sign outside the complex becomes more than a marker. It is a symbol of CSU’s enduring commitment to excellence.
The Storage Facility is scheduled to be completed in summer 2026, while a shared core lab, several research personnel offices and the lobby in the Research Facility will be operational in spring 2026. Three proposed upcoming phases for the Research Facility were approved by the Board of Trustees on November 7. These phases include construction of a food safety lab, purchase and installation of lab equipment and lobby and office furniture, and construction of a molecular biology lab and a precision agriculture lab, along with completion of the high-bay garage. While construction has proceeded smoothly, Toledo acknowledged the inherent challenges of this large-scale and multitier project. “The process is never quick enough,” he said. “But each step forward reflects our resilience and determination to build the infrastructure that will serve generations of students and communities.” For President Kuti, the RDC is part of a broader legacy. “As an 1890 Land-Grant institution, CSU has a responsibility to lead in research, extension and teaching,” he said. “The RDC ensures that our students are not only prepared academically but
also positioned to innovate, create businesses and strengthen the workforce.”
“The RDC is not just about buildings. It is about creating opportunities for students, faculty and communities to engage in cutting-edge research and technology transfer. Our Land-Grant mission demands that we serve, and this complex ensures we do so with impact.” -President Morakinyo A.O. Kuti
A fresh perspective on progress shows the RDC lobby taking shape with spring sunlight streaming in, to be ready in spring 2026.
From blueprint to backbone, the RDC steel frame stands tall in February 2024.
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Unlock Your Health Potential Join Central State University’s Free Nutrigenomics Program!
Pratibha Gupta, Ph.D., research associate professor of food nutrition and health
Why Join? - Free monthly sessions (in-person or virtual) for 6–12 months. - Personalized nutrition insights based on your unique biology.
Are you ready to take control of your health with a personalized approach? Central State University is offering a free, USDA- funded program that uses cutting- edge nutrigenomics to help you reach your wellness goals. Led by Principal Investigator Pratibha Gupta, Ph.D., Research Associate Professor, this program combines education with Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)—a quick, non-invasive way to understand your body composition. Nutrigenomics is a unique approach to helping people achieve desired health goals by using genomic markers and measuring body mass through Bio Electric Impedance (BIA),
Using BIA, we can look beneath the surface to understand the unique makeup of each person’s body. This information helps us design personalized recommendations that match an individual’s biology and lifestyle. Participants will gain a profound understanding of how different nutrients interact within their body. This empowers them to make informed choices about what they eat. — Dr. Gupta
Spots are limited! Volunteers must be 18 or older. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking health initiative. Email Dr. Pratibha Gupta todaay at pgupta@ centralstate.edu to reserve your spot.
- Support from a trusted expert.
- A chance to improve your health
and fitness with science-backed strategies.
Raymond Rolle, student researcher, pictured with a Bioelectrical Impedance Assessment instrument used in body composition analysis.
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An occasional feature highlighting published books and peer-reviewed articles authored by Central State University faculty. Research Briefs
Rajveer Dhillon, Ph.D.
Research Assistant Professor (Precision Agriculture/Agricultural Engineering) John W. Garland College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture Agricultural Research and Development Program (ARDP) --1890 Land-Grant Programs, Central State University.
TITLE OF ARTICLE
“Assessing the impact of soil water deficit and supplemental irrigation scenarios on Ohio’s maize and soybean yields using machine learning models.”
TITLE OF PUBLICATION
Location of study area (Ohio) in the USA map. Ohio county boundaries and likely extent of drainage are shown. Counties with 50% or more area unlikely to be drained were classified as undrained counties.
Agricultural Water Management
WHERE TO FIND THE ARTICLE
The article can be accessed here. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2025.109834
Article Summary Dr. Dhillon collaborated with researchers from the University of Florida and Ohio State University to use machine learning models and assess how soil water deficit and supplemental irrigation affect maize and soybean yields across Ohio counties. Their study found that supplemental irrigation of 50.8 mm per month during summer months significantly increased maize yields by an average of 598 kg/ha and reduced year-to-year yield variability for both soybean and maize crops, with the greatest benefits occurring during dry years and in southwest Ohio counties.
CO -AUTHORS
conditions in recent years, including the most severe drought in a century in 2024, this research provides critical insights into which counties would benefit most from supplemental irrigation, and how frequently such interventions may be needed with changing rainfall patterns in the region.
Dr. Dhillon collaborated with researchers from:
University of Florida Ohio State University
With Ohio experiencing severe drought
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Six Questions for the Researcher
Key Terms and Definitions
Craig Schluttenhofer, Ph.D.
Cannabis – The Cannabis sativa L (inclusive of both hemp and marijuana) Hemp – Cannabis sativa meeting the federal/state definitions of <0.3% delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol by dry weight Cannabinoids — A class of specialized metabolites produced primarily in Cannabis Metabolites — A chemical produced by the plant
Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer is Research Associate Professor of Natural Products at Central State University. He received his doctorate in Plant Physiology from the University of Kentucky in 2016, where his dissertation focused on understanding the transcriptional regulation of specialized metabolism. He obtained a Master of Science in Plant Pathology from Purdue University in 2011, the same institution he had earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture Science as well as Plant Genetics and Breeding. “For grain and fiber, my efforts focus on an optimal flowering time for Ohio, seed traits, plant height, and of course yield. The goal is to develop varieties that are consistent and reliable for Ohio farmers to grow, so they can be successful producing hemp crops for grain and f iber.” -vrCraig Schluttenhofer
Dr. Schluttenhofer currently specializes in the genetics and biochemistry of Cannabis used for agricultural and medical purposes. He started working with hemp in 2014 as a graduate student at the University of Kentucky. His prior work included investigating methods for tissue culture of hemp* and understanding grain shattering. Dr. Schluttenhofer’s research focuses on hemp and includes breeding of new varieties; agronomic and horticulture production practices; understanding plant biology, biochemistry, genetics, and genomics; evaluating products; and developing new technologies and products. Specifically, his plant breeding efforts target developing unique fiber, grain, and metabolite hemp varieties adapted to the Ohio River Valley region. Production practices seek to optimize plant growth, crop yield, and quality. Currently, his plant biology efforts seek to develop tools for studying gene functions. Popular hemp products are evaluated for potential benefits and risks to consumers. New technologies are being developed to enable hemp production by small-scale growers and processors. Products are being developed that capitalize on Ohio’s agriculture and manufacturing heritage to expand market opportunities for hemp producers.
“My mentoring centers on the fact that everyone is good at something. So, I like to let the student find a way to use their skills to solve a problem my lab is addressing. Magical things happen when you let student be creative.” - Craig Schluttenhofer
Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer Research Associate Professor of Natural Products
*Continued on next page
21 | NWSLTR
1. Your research examines the genetics and biochemistry of Cannabis. How is your work helping to unlock the plant’s biosynthetic pathways and why does that matter for both agriculture and medicine? My lab is interested in compounds Cannabis produces that can be used to for improving human and animal health or facilitate manufacturing. To reliably make these compounds, we first must know how they are synthesized in the plant and what controls their accumulation. Cannabis is a wonderfully fascinating plant. It is quite possibly the only plant in the world where a single plant tissue (i.e. the flowers) can produce over 30% of its weight in a single compound like cannabinoids or other specialized metabolites. This makes the plant highly valuable as a potential chemical production platform - be that for pharmaceutical or industrial compounds. 2. One of your goals is to develop superior hemp genetics for the Ohio River Valley. What specific traits are you focusing on, and how could these benefit farmers in Ohio? Unlike other crops, little effort has been placed on hemp breeding in the US, but specifically in the Ohio River Valley region. My breeding efforts primarily focus on grain and fiber varieties, but I also have an interest in unusual chemicals for metabolite hemp crops. For grain and fiber, my efforts focus on an optimal flowering time for Ohio, seed traits, plant height, and of course yield. The goal is to develop varieties that are consistent and reliable for Ohio farmers to grow, so they can be successful producing hemp crops for grain and fiber. 3. You’re also working to expand the chemical diversity of hemp. How might these new chemical profiles open the door to novel applications for hemp-derived products? The chemical diversity in hemp is outstanding. I am interested in selecting plants to produce high levels of diverse compounds to facilitate new markets ranging from herbal supplements to medicines for humans and animals as well as industrial compounds such as solvents and biofuels. As a state with a strong background in both agriculture and manufacturing, novel plant chemistries can enhance the state’s ability to manufacture new and current products while simultaneously increasing the sustainability and security of their production.
They really open up and truly learn what it means to do research and use it to solve society’s problems. That is why I have worked with students from all backgrounds, not just biology or sustainable agriculture as one might expect for a plant lab, but business, psychology, and criminal justice. They all bring something unique to the table that can help my lab look at a problem in a new way. In the process, many of my student have found a new passion for plants and agriculture - because they combine it with something they already enjoy. I think a passion for plants and agriculture are critically important, as we have a society that is often so disconnected from agriculture they do understand how it impacts everyone’s daily life - yet we all have to eat!
4. Your study also focuses on the relationship between Cannabis policies and its agricultural use. How do current regulations shape the direction and impact of your research? Cannabis, including hemp, have long been a controversial topic in Ohio and the US. Despite state and federal changes to allow hemp production, there remain a number of regulatory challenges to produce this crop. Changes in these policies directly impact not only the hemp industry but hemp research as well. For example, shifts in how the hemp program is handled, either at the state or federal level, may directly change what research my lab can do. 5. Your work extends beyond hemp to other plants producing natural products. What potential do you see in diversifying these research efforts, and how could they contribute to the broader natural products market? While my work heavily focuses on hemp, I do have an interest in natural products from other plants. The reason is the same as with hemp, finding ways to use agriculture production to support manufacturing and/ or health. Plants are nature’s chemists; they make all sorts of unique compounds. As chemically diverse as Cannabis is, it does not produce everything. Other plants can be excellent platforms for production of other chemicals. Using agriculture to diversify production of industrial compounds will support sustainability and reduce reliance on foreign markets for supplying necessary chemicals. 6. How many students do you estimate have worked with you on your research projects since you came to Central State? How do you approach preparing Central State University students that you mentor to become the next generation of plant science and agricultural researchers? In my time at Central State, I have worked with over 36 students on different research projects. I love working with students because you actively get to see them grow in their knowledge and problem-solving skills. My mentoring centers on the fact that everyone is good at something. So, I like to let the student find a way to use their skills to solve a problem my lab is addressing. Magical things happen when you let student be creative.
For more information about Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer’s (pictured above) research projects, email him at: cschluttenhofer@ centralstate.edu.
Dr. Schluttenhofer and two of his post-docs, Dr. Shadab Panahi (center), and Dr. Venkata Satish Rangu gather around Thermo High-performance liquid chromatograph with Orbitrap.
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