CENTRAL AG FOCUS- Spring 2025

EXTENSION URBAN FARMER YOUTH INITIATIVE

RESEARCH 6 QUESTIONS FOR THE RESEARCHER TEACHING STUDENTS REFLECT ON INTERNSHIPS AND RESEARCH PROJECTS

Celebrating the 135 Anniversary of th

the Second Morrill Act

SPRING 2025 ISSUE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

12 6 QUESTIONS FOR THE RESEARCHER RESEARCH 03 DR.JOSE TOLEDO VICE PRESIDENT, RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, DIRECTOR 1890 LAND-GRANT PROGRAMS FROM THE DIRECTOR

EXTENSION

URBAN FARMER YOUTH INITIATIVE

SARE GRANT FUNDS NEW CUT FLOWER APP FOR CENTRAL STATE

UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

RESEARCH

TEACHING

NEXT-GEN AGRICULTURAL PROFESSIONALS: STUDENTS REFLECT ON INTERNSHIPS AND RESEARCH PROJECTS

RESEARCH & DEMONSTRATION COMPLEX UPDATE

FROM THE DIRECTOR

LAND-GRANT TRIPARTITE MISSION

As an 1890 Land-Grant University, Central State University is committed to serving its constituents via its tripartite mission of Research, Teaching, and Extension.

Greetings, As Central State University celebrates the 135th anniversary of the Second Morrill Act, which established the 1890 Land-Grant system, I am excited to introduce the first edition of “Central Ag Focus” magazine for Spring 2025. This edition commemorates this significant occasion and showcases the numerous advancements made by Central State University’s Division of Research and Economic Development, as well as the 1890 Land-Grant Programs, in our campus and communities throughout Ohio. It is my privilege to lead this remarkable division and highlight the impactful achievements of our faculty, staff, and students in research, extension, and teaching— CSU’s core pillars.

In support of CSU’s tripartite mission, the University is building its Research and Demonstration Complex (RDC). Phase I is well underway and includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art, 40,000-square-foot research building. The construction of a 10,000- square-foot advanced core laboratory and office space for faculty, research staff, and student researchers has been completed. Phase II is a buildout of the remaining 30,000 square feet, featuring research laboratories dedicated to food microbiology, precision agriculture and robotics, soil and water research and testing, molecular biology, and tissue culture. Phase III will include additional training facilities at the RDC, along with several outdoor demonstration components to enhance research, extension, and teaching activities focusing on food, agriculture, and natural resources. Central State University Extension remains focused on improving agriculture sustainability while promoting the economic development of communities and individuals and the overall well-being of Ohio families, particularly those in underserved communities. Our programming reaches individuals, families, and businesses in 42 Ohio counties. By providing hands-on experience and education, we nurture the next generation of urban and small-scale farmers, instilling a sense of responsibility and connection to the land. On the research front, Central State University is rapidly progressing as a Research University in the 2025 Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education and attracting externally sponsored funding to implement the Institutional research portfolio for discoveries in the life sciences of agriculture and biotechnology, as well as engineering, health, mathematics, computer, and social sciences. Central State is slated to receive a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to establish the Midwest Climate Resilience Center. This initiative will address risks to soil and drinking water quality from extreme rain and flooding events across the Miami Valley. The University will partner with Ohio State University and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on this project. On the teaching side, the Institution is highlighting in this issue its Next-Gen of Agricultural Professionals program and students guided by dedicated faculty mentors to become the agricultural professionals of tomorrow. Students’ reflections in this issue show how deeply they are impacted by their learning and professional growth. My deepest gratitude goes to our faculty, staff, and students for their hard work and dedication, as well as to our partners for their unwavering support. Together, we will continue leading educational programming that is highly responsive to our stakeholders and community needs, as Central State University embarks upon its second decade as an 1890 Land-Grant University and delivers on its tripartite mission of research, extension, and teaching.

Jose U. Toledo, Ph.D. Vice President, Research and Economic Development, Director, 1890 Land-Grant Programs

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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

(left to right): Millie Smith, CSU

Dayton, Kylee Peoples, FCS Educator,

Southwest Region, Jewel Rollins, FCS Educator, Northwest Region, Renita Porter, FCS Program Leader, and TreMia Hutcheson, CSU Student

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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Agriculture & Natural Resources

Growing Cut Flower Farms with Marketing App

By Crystal Duckett

ut flower growers in Ohio will have a new marketing tool to connect with buyers interested in locally grown flowers. Central State University Extension’s Agriculture and Natural Resource (ANR) program area has developed an extension to a marketing app that provides a communication channel for cut-flower growers. In the app, known as FlowersInSeason, growers can create profiles detailing the flowers growing on their farm, farm locations, and how customers can purchase the flowers. Growers also have the option to link to their online store or create one through the application. Buyers can search for cut flowers by zip code, flower type, color, and availability date. The app features a map showing all cut flower growers in a region, to help buyers find the farms. Marc Amante, CSU Extension's Regional ANR Educator in Southwest Ohio, was inspired to develop the app after a group of cut flower growers expressed a need for better communication with buyers.

"Historically, florists grew and sold their own flowers, but high labor costs led to a shift towards importing flowers from overseas, primarily South America, which devastated the U.S. floriculture industry," Amante explained. "Recently, there has been a renewed interest in locally grown and sourced cut flowers, which offer desirable and diverse varieties with short shelf lives unsuitable for long-distance shipping but perfect for local markets."

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The app benefits both Ohio cut flower growers and buyers. Initially, five cut flower growers partnered with CSU Extension to help develop the app. These growers spent a year collecting data on their production season, which helped identify when cut flowers are available in Ohio. This information aids buyers in searching for flowers by zip code and availability date, enhancing grower-buyer relationships and increasing sales. The application is still in the testing and development phase, as more cut flower growers are helping CSU Extension with pilot testing. The plan is to launch next year. "This app is a game-changer for our growers," said Michelle Wallace, Regional ANR Extension Educator, Northwest. "It will greatly improve communication between growers and buyers, and we expect to see a significant increase in the market share of locally sourced cut flowers." Funding for the app development was through a grant from USDA Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program. The grant leveraged participation with the existing MarketMaker platform to reduce costs.

For more information, contact Michelle Wallace, Regional ANR Extension Educator, Northwest, at mwallace@centralstate.edu, or Marc Amante, Interim ANR Program Leader and Regional Extension Educator, Southwest, at mamante@centralstate.edu. availability, colors, and purchase locations. The app was recently awarded second runner-up for the Farm Credit Market Maker Innovation Award at the National Agricultural Marketing Summit The app aims to be a one-stop-shop for locally sourced cut flowers, improving connections between growers and prospective buyers by providing real-time information on flower

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Board of Nursing Accreditation Elevates CSU’s Community Health Worker Program

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE

Participants will develop skills in data collection, client advocacy, care coordination, and promoting health among culturally diverse populations. Certified CHWs are vital members of multidisciplinary healthcare teams, providing critical support services and fostering trust within communities. “This accreditation is a monumental step for Central State. We are excited to see our students gain state-recognized credentials that will open new doors for their careers." Community health workers are essential in connecting healthcare providers with the communities they serve. For more information on this and other FCS programs, please contact Renita Porter, FCS program leader, at rporter@centralstate.edu. The program equips individuals to become certified CHWs, potentially leading to increased wages and career opportunities. Duncan emphasized the program's impact on the local community: “CSU Dayton is deeply integrated into the fabric of Dayton’s community. This certification reflects our dedication to providing top-tier educational opportunities that directly benefit our residents.”

“This accreditation is a monumental step for Central State," Porter said. "We are excited to see our students gain state- recognized credentials that will open new doors for their careers." Previously, participants in the CHW program, developed in partnership with CareSource, received certificates from Central State. However, with the state certification, graduates now gain enhanced professional credentials and opportunities. entral State University’s Community Health Worker (CHW) Program is set to launch its first state-accredited cohort soon, a significant milestone following its accreditation by the Ohio Board of Nursing in February. This new accreditation is a testament to the dedicated efforts of Renita Porter, Family and Consumer Science (FCS) program leader, and Brandie Duncan, director of Financial Operations.

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growing profitability for farms

Central State University Extension (CSUE) Community and Economic Development (CED) team has partnered with American Farmland Trust for the Growing Equity Partnership, a multi-year project aimed at building capacity to provide business technical assistance (BTA) to historically underserved farmers and ranchers. The partnership also seeks to increase their participation in USDA programs and services. Key project partners include American Farmland Trust, Black Family Land Trust, The Carrot Project, and 19 cohort organizations, including BTA consultants, Cooperative Extension services like CSUE, and nonprofits that serve the target audiences. All CED educators involved have received comprehensive training and are now equipped to deliver effective programming across the state of Ohio. Their outreach efforts have been instrumental in reaching over 120 participants, significantly enhancing the partnership's impact.

“It’s inspiring to see our educators fully trained and ready to make a difference. This training has given them the tools to effectively support our

communities,” said Mark Rendleman, Statewide CED program leader.

Business Technical Assistance encompasses customized technical assistance, one-on-one services, and training to enhance farm and ranch viability. Topics covered range from improving financial literacy, accessing capital, and business management skills to new enterprise development, marketing and sales, land access and succession planning, and even access to high-speed internet. "The potential impact across Ohio is immense. By equipping our farmers and ranchers with the right skills and knowledge, we are paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural community," said Stephen Washington, Regional CED Educator, Northeast, The CED team has conducted two marketing conferences and various classes throughout the state of Ohio. These classes included six sessions lasting 30 minutes each, one session per week over six weeks. Participants delved deep into a new topic each week, covering: Business mission, vision, and values

Business structures Business planning Business marketing Records and financials Operations and resources

"One-on-one business technical assistance is crucial because it allows us to address specific challenges and provide tailored solutions that make a tangible difference in the lives of our farmers and ranchers," explained Washington. The classes have had a profound impact, providing participants with practical skills and knowledge, and significantly improving their business operations and financial stability. Participants and educators alike have expressed excitement about the training and the positive outcomes they’ve seen so far. Looking ahead, stakeholders are optimistic about the continued success and expansion of the program to benefit even more farmers and ranchers in Ohio. For more information on the Growing Equity Partnership, contact Statewide Program Leader Mark Rendleman at mrendleman@centralstate.edu.

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URBAN FARMER YOUTH INITIATIVE Eight gardens around Ohio are conducting youth programming year-round in this pilot project.

"Youth in urban farming are the pioneers of tomorrow’s sustainable cities."

Program Sites and Highlights

Cincinnati – Jackson Street Farms Focus: Urban youth gardening Activities: Gardening, biodiversity education, and community engagement. Cincinnati – One Day at a Time Focus: Sustainable agriculture Activities: Hands-on farming, sustainability practices, and environmental education. Cincinnati – Urban Youth Garden Focus: Entrepreneurship in agriculture Activities: Growing and selling produce, business planning, and market strategies. Dayton and Trotwood – Edible Flower Garden Focus: Edible gardening Activities: Planting and harvesting edible flowers, biodiversity education, and creating consumable products. Trotwood – Glorified Dirt Focus: Community gardening Activities: Gardening, community beautification, and environmental stewardship. Trotwood – Efinity Harvest Focus: Urban farming Activities: Sustainable farming practices, crop management, and community outreach. Springfield – Springfield Ohio Urban Plantfolk (SOUP) Focus: Urban agriculture Activities: Gardening, plant care, and community engagement. Toledo – Urban Wholistics Focus: Holistic health and agriculture Activities: Farming, sustainability, holistic health education, and entrepreneurship.

Central State University Extension's 4-H Youth Development collaborated with community partners to launch eight agriculture sites for youth programming as part of the Urban Farmer Youth Initiative. This initiative, developed with the vision and support of Ohio State Senator Paula Hicks- Hudson, aims to help urban youth learn about agriculture and entrepreneurship while developing valuable life skills. Ohio State Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson, the first Black female mayor of Toledo, has always been committed to empowering communities and improving quality of life. Her work on Senate Bill 111, which supports urban gardening and youth programs, exemplifies her dedication to addressing food insecurity and fostering community engagement. This initiative aims to empower young people by involving them in urban gardening projects, teaching them valuable life skills, and instilling a sense of community pride. The Urban Farmer Youth Initiative is designed to provide urban youth with hands-on experiences in agriculture, fostering a deep- rooted understanding of the environment and cultivating a sense of responsibility and accomplishment. Each program site has a cap of 15 students to ensure personalized attention and effective learning.

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Edgemont Community Garden in Dayton Ohio is the home of Glorified Dirt, one of eight (8) urban gardens, a vision of Senator Hicks-Hudson’s bill.

Youth gardners at Jackson Street Farms in Cincinnati

For more information about the program, please contact: Janet Corne’y, Interim 4-H Youth Program Leader, at jcorney@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6694 Alcinda Folck, Associate Executive Administrator, at afolck@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6101 Central State University Extension | centralstate.edu/csuextension | 937-376-6568

Student proudly poses with his fresh produce from Efinity Harvest Agriculture Company in Trotwood, Ohio

Youth gardner at Jackson Street Farms in Cincinnati

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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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PRATIBHA GUPTA,PH.D DIRECTOR: HUMAN HEALTH ASSESSMENT AND NUTRIGENOMICS LAB SIX QUESTIONS FOR THE RESEARCHER: Educating participants on prevention of obesity, diabetes, and other diseases by applying nutrigenomics approach (food and gene interaction) for precision nutrition in Ohio.

Dr. Gupta is the principal investigator (PI) for the study, which involves Central State in partnership with Kentucky State University, and the University of Toledo. Dr. Gupta’s responses have been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.

Pratibha Gupta, Ph.D., is a Research Associate professor of food, nutrition, and health and was an Extension specialist for Family and Consumer Science at Central State University. She is a member of the American Society of Nutrition, and a visiting faculty at Wright State University. Dr. Gupta recently responded to a list of six questions by Dr. Cyril Ibe, interim communications coordinator for Land-Grant Communications, on her $600,000, USDA-funded research titled, “Nutrition Education and Outreach Program to Address and Prevent Obesity in Minority Communities: Application of Nutrigenomics.”

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Simply, it is the food and gene interaction and how it impacts our body. Our lab “Human Health Assessment and Nutrigenomics lab 2” is conducting a personalized nutritional plan based on their nutritional food markers profile generated by the company RX Predict. Nutrigenomics can be defined as the interaction between nutrition and an individual's genetic pattern. This project will address the issue of obesity prevention by assisting minority adults to adopt and model healthy, personalized lifestyle choices through dietary plans designed by RX Predict on eating patterns and the intervention program Simply My Health (S.M.H.) being developed at Central State University, through providing healthier foods and encouraging exercise behaviors.

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF NUTRIGENOMICS, AND WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF YOUR ONGOING, THREE-YEAR STUDY?

Dr. Gupta points out to undergraduate student researcher Edmond Kollie a picture on her peer-reviewed article on nutrigenomics.

“The interactions and identification of diet-gene will allow us to develop a specialized, personalized dietary intervention that will lead to evidence-based lifestyle and dietary strategies for achieving health and fitness in anticipation of the effects of genomic factors in preventing diet-related diseases.”

YOUR STUDY’S FOCUS IS ON MINORITY POPULATIONS AND SOME SPECIFIC HEALTH OUTCOMES. WHAT COMMUNITIES ARE YOU TARGETING, AND WHY?

The project goals deal with community extension education to identify all minority populations and underrepresented adults (18 years and older), particularly those who are suffering from being overweight.

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All volunteer participants will go through two sets of assessments. 1. Bioelectric Impedance Assessment (BIA) Technology to assess the entire body composition. 2. Nutritional genetic food marker profile to identify the lifestyle, and generate an automatic report for a personalized, specific, nutritional plan to address any issue of obesity. I facilitate and moderate the plan, based on the individual’s report generated by RX Predict. Dr. Gupta (photo, right) shows her undergraduate student researchers -- Edmond Kollie (left, behind Gupta), Vandelezza Hepburn, and Raymond Rolle – how a machine in her nutrigenomics lab works. (Photo below, Dr. Gupta checks the reading on a scale in the lab. The recruitment process is simple. We advertise via the media organs of Central State University’s Public Relations and Land-Grant Communications. Several community places, including churches and other centers are contacted for educating participants about how they can prevent chronic conditions of obesity and diabetes by simple lifestyle modifications.

SPECIFICALLY, WHAT METHODS ARE USED TO IDENTIFY OBESITY, OVERWEIGHT CONDITIONS, AND DIABETES IN OHIO?

HOW ARE YOU RECRUITING PARTICIPANTS FOR THE STUDY? ARE YOU STILL ACCEPTING PARTICIPANTS, AND IF SO, HOW CAN ONE GET ENROLLED?

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Nutrigenomics can play an important role in obesity prevention. By evaluating an

The interactions and identification of diet-gene will allow us to develop a specialized, personalized dietary intervention that will lead to evidence-based lifestyle and dietary strategies for achieving health and fitness in anticipation of the effects of genomic factors in preventing diet-related diseases. Incorporation and considerations of introducing a successful launch of personalized nutrigenomic foods could be the new trends in personalized nutrigenomic food will depend on an individual's nutritional and food-related genomic results extensive report generated by RX Predict for participants to follow. An estimated 300 people will stand to benefit from this project with me as the moderator. preventing future diseases. Developing a specialized,

WHAT TANGIBLE BENEFITS/RESULTS DO YOU HOPE TO SEE IN YOUR TARGETED COMMUNITIES AT THE END OF YOUR STUDY, AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO SHARE THE BENEFITS WITH THEM?

REGARDLESS OF WHETHER ONE PARTICIPATES IN YOUR STUDY, ARE THERE THINGS WE SHOULD ALL KEEP IN MIND ABOUT OUR DIET, NUTRITION, OUR BODY, GENES, AND OUR OVERALL HEALTH?

individual's nutritional markers or makeup, nutrigenomics can serve as a guide for potential risks and help tailor a personalized diet plan to prevent the onset of the disease. This approach considers an individual's unique nutritional needs based on their nutrition food genomic profile, helping them make informed choices about what they eat. Additionally, nutrigenomics can help identify foods that may trigger adverse reactions or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with diabetes, allowing for better disease management. Overall, nutrigenomics offers a promising avenue for disease prevention and personalized nutrition.

RESEARCH TEAM: Avinash Tope, Ph.D. (Kentucky State University) Michael Toland, Ph.D. (University of Toledo) Mortenous Johnson (Central State University)

STUDENT RESEARCHERS Edmond Kollie Raymond Rolle Vandeleezza Hepburn

Samantha Charles Daniel Mcintosh Sierra Munroe Danielle Cieslak

*For more information or to register for the study contact Dr. Pratibha Gupta, pgupta@centralstate.edu

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Central State University is one of the 19-strong Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the U.S. designated as 1890 Land-Grant institutions. With the Land-Grant status granted to CSU in 2014, the three-part mission of Central State University is progressing in full swing with the construction of the Research and Demonstration Complex (RDC) with groundbreaking in July 2023. RESEARCH & DEMONSTRATION COMPLEX UPDATE

The RDC project will be completed in multiple phases. The initial phase includes building 40,000 square feet, state-of-the-art research building. However, as the tri-part mission evolves, CSU is continuing to develop the Research and Demonstration Complex (RDC) on a 118-acre site, consisting of state-of-the-art research facilities, greenhouses, small-scale farming demonstration plots, a storage facility, an aquaculture facility, a botanical garden, demonstrations of fruit and vegetable production, and processing facilities for value-added agricultural production. The first phase of the state-of-the-art research building is to construct 10,000 square feet of the building’s “shell” (floors, walls, roof, etc.) and core facility. This is scheduled to be completed soon in 2025 through the support of the USDA- National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The new research building’s glass-wall design and highway-facing location promote inclusivity and encourage collaboration. It will enable stakeholders to see science on display and engage with researchers and Extension educators. The second phase (10,000 square feet.) will house an advanced core laboratory and offices for faculty members, research staff, and student researchers. The core lab will be a shared facility with specialized equipment that researchers across the university can use to support a wide range of research and development activities. In the third phase (remaining 30,000 square feet), the first floor of the two-floor building will house state-of-the-art research laboratories (fig. 2b) such as food microbiology, precision agriculture and robotics, soil/water research and testing, molecular biology and tissue culture, and genetic engineering and genomics laboratories. All laboratories will have advanced instrumentation for cutting-edge research and outreach activities in Agricultural and Natural Resources Management, Microbiological Quality of Specialty Crops, and Precision Agriculture and Robotics.

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Future enhancements include a seed certification and testing laboratory, and other lab spaces to address emerging needs for future faculty and future collaborations with USDA-ARS or corporate partners in agriculture and food systems.

The CSU Research and Demonstration Complex will transform agriculture, strengthen the next generation through experiential learning, and meet the community's needs through research and demonstration. Ongoing development will expand capacity to accommodate additional research, extension, and training programming. So far, the lack of storage facilities is a limitation for current agricultural farm machinery/equipment for research and Extension demonstrations. To resolve this issue, a 17,600- square-foot storage facility is currently being designed (Fig.3). CSU has received NIFA funding approval and intends to start construction as soon as the design is finalized. The storage building will address the need for storage space to support CSU's research and Extension mission. Similarly, there are limited greenhouse spaces for research and demonstration. New greenhouses will be added to expand resources to support food and agricultural growth areas. As the RDC's growth progresses, existing infrastructures like aquaponics and aquaculture greenhouses, as well as the honeybee research lab, will be enhanced to continue expanding for innovative research and demonstration. Furthermore, the RDC will also include an animal barn and pasture management site to expand CSU's tri-partite mission.

These resources at CSU would enable researchers to address climate change, food security and safety, and climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance international engagement, research cooperation, and competitiveness, support economic development in underserved populations, promote global food security, and graduate an engaged workforce.

To reach its ambitious, long-term goals for its 1890 Land- Grant Programs, Central State University seeks partnerships with state, federal, and corporate entities for additional funds to complete the RDC project. This project will serve underserved and underrepresented communities and support economic development in Ohio and beyond.

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WE HBSEEU TV

By Cyril Ibe

"Your undergraduate students are literally being trained like graduate students -- which is a remarkable thing.... ” -Dr. Erin Lynch, WeHBSeeU TV

A crew from WeHBSeeU TV, a national digital streaming network that spotlights Historically Black Colleges and Universities, visited Central State University in September 2024 and spent a full day to see for itself the scope and nature of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research CSU faculty and students are undertaking at Ohio's only public HBCU. CSU was the 44th HBCU the crew has visited so far. "This has been an awe-inspiring experience -- to be able to capture this in southwest Ohio," said Dr. Erin Lynch, host of WeHBSeeU TV and president of its affiliated nonprofit QEM (Quality Education for Minorities) Network in Washington, D.C.

After visiting four Central State laboratories and meeting with teachers and students who worked on semiconductors with Intel funding last summer, Lynch was impressed. "Your undergraduate students are literally being trained like graduate students. Which is a remarkable thing that you have 19 and 20-year-olds sounding like 25 and 27-year-olds, talking about the science (projects) that they are doing," she said in an interview recorded at the end of the day for Research Connection podcast.

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We HBSeeU TV’s Dr. Erin Lynch talks with CSU research technician Robert Bennett in soil lab during her visit.

Dr. Erin Lynch talks with CSU research professors (from l-r) Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer, Dr. Rajveer Dhillon, and Dr. Sakthi Kumaran.

Dr. Erin Lynch poses with CSU’s Dr. Mohammadreza Hadizadeh (l), director of the Semiconductor Education & Research Program; Dr. Mubbashar Khan (second from right); and three semiconductor research students.

The mentoring professors visited and also interviewed included Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer (Hemp Lab), Dr. Rajveer Dhillon (Unmanned Aerial Systems Lab),Dr. Sakthi Kumaran (Agriculture and Natural Resources Information and Management Lab) Dr. Krishna Kumar Nedunuri (Hydraulics Lab), Dr. Mohammadreza Hadizadeh and Dr. Mubbashar Khan (Semiconductor Project). At every stop, the students told Lynch that their CSU professors are supportive and always encourage them to trust and follow their imagination in their research.

"I would say that ingenuity is my favorite part always," Sharnelle Coicous, a senior computer science major from the Bahamas, told Lynch. "When Dr. (Rajveer) Dhillon comes to me with a project, it's always something that I never would have thought to do with computers and agriculture....So I like how it taps into my creativity and ingenuity. I'm like wow, I didn't know we could do this. What else can we do?"

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As an 1890 Land-Grant institution, Central State University imparts educational activities and academic programs that provide constituents and students the necessary tools to address societal challenges. New knowledge generated through research and innovation, coupled with feedback extracted through Extension programs, is transformative when infused back into teaching and instruction.

Student researcher Joel Barhorst under the watchful eye of Dr. Hongmei Li-Byarlay in a CSU bee lab.

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Ever since the designation of Central State University as a Land-Grant institution in 2014, experiential learning by our students has been one of the cornerstones of the 1890 Land-Grant Programs. Our faculty involves students in a variety of funded research projects as they mold them as the next generation of agricultural professionals who will continue to seek solutions to society’s challenges in feeding itself. Last summer, a number of CSU undergraduate students collectively spent hundreds of hours in agricultural farms, campus, and non-CSU labs at partnering universities as interns and budding researchers. Read reflections from some of the students.

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LAVERNE AMBRISTER

JAHIEM WILSON

Classification: Junior Major: Exercise Science Minor: Psychology Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Hongmei Li-Byarlay

Classification: Senior Major: Computer Science Mentoring Faculty : Dr. Rajveer Dhillon

Research Focus:

Project Focus:

The research focused on Varroa mites, a parasitic pest that poses one of the greatest threats to honeybee populations. These mites weaken bees physically and disrupt their behavior and flight patterns, undermining their critical role in pollination. Honeybees are integral to the pollination of approximately 35% of the world’s food crops, making their decline a pressing agricultural issue. .

My role was to manage our code for the robotic mower, which was modified to have a moisture probe connected to it to collect soil moisture data for the project, as well as some fieldwork. This involved correcting issues with the mower's code, and then I was tasked with combining the mower's code with the irrigation code, which were separate, to ensure they worked coherently together.

Lessons Learned:

This internship greatly expanded my knowledge and deep understanding of applications in agriculture. Through hands- on experience with data preprocessing, AI model training, and object detection algorithms, I strengthened my technical skills while opening new doors for career opportunities in precision agriculture and AI-based research.

One of the most profound changes during this experience was in how I viewed agriculture. Previously, I saw it as a straightforward process of cultivating and harvesting crops. However, my research revealed how deeply food production relies on pollinators like honeybees.

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BRYANT WILLIS

ROYALTY HIGHTOWER

Classification: Junior Major: Environmental Engineering Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Ramanitharan Kandiah

Classification: Sophomore Major: Sustainable Agriculture Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Sakthi Kumaran

Internship Focus:

Internship Focus: My duties were to complete my project in a timely manner, present my findings, and hone my publication writing skills. During my time at Ohio State University, I worked on a project involving complex statistical analysis of precipitation events in relation to time, or temporal autocorrelation, of these events relative to the SPI.

I interned at the National Soil Erosion Laboratory in West Lafayette, Indiana. Throughout my time there I was able to participate in many different projects and experience field work firsthand. My project focused on how land management affects soil organic carbon in cropland soils, but I was also fortunate enough to help with other students' projects like the aggregate stability project which focused on the stability of the soils, and the rainfall project which focused on runoff and its effects on the soils and surrounding areas.

Lessons Learned:

I learned how to effectively communicate objectives and issues within a team and overcome challenges in an efficient manner. I also strengthened my formative writing skills for applications and publications while talking to professionals in my major. Lastly, I learned how to create and execute action plans for a large-scale project and honed my abilities to code and analyze data.

I learned a lot of patience throughout my internship period. Research is very particular and precise, which requires lots of patience. Especially when you receive results that aren’t favorable. I also learned not to be afraid to try new things because you never know who you may meet or where you may go.

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JOEL BARHOST

KELLSIE SCHRACK

Classification: Senior Major: Water Resources Management Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Sakthi Kumaran

Classification: Junior Major: Environmental Engineering Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Ramanitharan Kandiah

Internship Focus:

Research Focus:

In this research project, we wanted to explore the complex interactions between the three BWG wetland morphology, surrounding land use, and nutrient cycling mainly focusing on nitrite, nitrate, and phosphorus dynamics. Once we were ready to test the samples they were pulled out of the fridge and were allowed two hours for warming. The samples were then tested for parts per million for nitrates, nitrites, and orthophosphates using a flow injection analyzer.

Aphid Microbiome. Aphids are bad agricultural pests that can decimate many crops. I researched how certain aphid microbiomes affect the health and survival of certain aphids. Some of them can negatively affect aphids while others can positively affect them. This research was with the NEXTGEN grant and was done at Purdue University this past summer.

Lessons Learned:

I learned that research entails a lot of reading; that science has specific protocols; that research is a process that tends to take time; and that patience is needed to be an effective researcher.

Some personal takeaways from this research include intellectual development, research method skills, professional development, and personal growth. Intellectual development gave me insights on my topic and helped me improve my analytical skills. Research method skills helped me to understand data- collection techniques, understand analysis methods, and how to design a good project.

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KEIANA BRISCOE

ZEPHON MCANDREW

Classification: Sophomore Major: Environmental Engineering Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Ramanitharan Kandiah

Classification: Senior Major: Biology Mentoring Faculty: Dr. Hongmei Li-Byarlay

Internship Focus:

I had the opportunity to explore this previously unknown discipline with the Division of Vector Borne Diseases in Fort Collins, Colorado. My cohort was exposed to vector collection, taxonomy, biology, control, and research methods. I was able to fully immerse myself in the role of a medical entomologist.

My internship focused on addressing key challenges in modern agriculture through sustainable farming practices and the integration of Artificial Intelligence. The research explored sustainable farming techniques such as crop rotation, organic farming, and soil health management while also analyzing the adoption of AI and technology in small-scale farming.

Lessons Learned:

I gained an understanding of the career and job responsibilities, and skill requirements necessary to perform the job. I learned that when you enjoy what you are doing, work does not feel like work. Always be kind to the people around you, it makes your life and theirs better.

One of the most fascinating parts of the internship was seeing how advanced technology, like AI and data modeling, could revolutionize farming practices. This experience deepened my understanding of how technology can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical solutions. It motivated me to explore how I can use similar innovations to tackle environmental challenges in the Caribbean, where I was born.

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SIXTEEN CENTRAL STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN THE 2024 "UNDERGRADUATE INTERNSHIP AND RESEARCH REVIEW" PRESENTATIONS ON THEIR SUMMER WORK, MARKING SEVERAL YEARS OF THE ANNUAL PROGRAM. IN PHOTO, THE STUDENTS SHOW OFF THEIR CERTIFICATES OF PARTICIPATION.

The 2024 participating students wereLaverne Ambrister, Exercise Science Junior; Joel Barhorst, Sustainable Agriculture Senior; Keiana Briscoe, Biology Senior; Danao Davis, Environmental Engineering Junior; Ranicia Ferguson, Psychology and Criminal Justice Senior; Pleas Halsell, Water Resources Management Junior; Royalty Hightower, Sustainable Agriculture Sophomore; and Ishe Mawasha, Environmental Engineering Junior. Other students wereZephon McAndrew, Environmental Engineering Sophomore; Abigail Penn, Psychology/Biology Sophomore; Meyah Pillow, Sustainable Agriculture Junior; Shawn Saturday, Sustainable Agriculture Sophomore; Kellsie Schrack, Water Resources Management Senior; Heaven Strachan, Sustainable Agriculture Sophomore; Bryant Willis, Environmental Engineering Junior; andJahiem Wilson, Computer Science Senior.

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Celebrating the 135th Anniversary of the Second Morrill Act of 1890 and Central State University’s Designation as an 1890 Land-Grant University

On Aug. 30, 1890, Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President of the United States, signed the Second Morrill Act of 1890 into law. Sponsored by Senator Justin Morrill of Vermont, the Act’s intent was to expand opportunities for African Americans to pursue education, specifically in agriculture and mechanical arts (A&M). This academic shift set students up for the real world and advanced the nation by furnishing an opportunity to educate all classes of citizenry. Senator Morrill entered the political arena at the age of 44 and served another 44 years in the United States Congress as a representative and senator from Vermont. Congress is where the First and Second Morrill Acts were enacted. Despite his sentiments, segregation was still widely practiced, especially in the Southern and Border States that would not admit Blacks to their educational institutions. This American response stirred the need for more legislation. The First Morrill Act of 1862 provided federal funds from the sale of public land to establish an endowment fund for Land-Grant colleges of agriculture and mechanical arts. It established at least one college in every state. Before the Second Morrill Act, African Americans and other minorities were frequently barred from educational openings at the Land-grant Universities (LGUs) established by the (first) Morrill Act of 1862. The Second Morrill Act needed states to establish separate Land-Grant institutions for Black students or demonstrate that admission to the 1862 Land-Grant had no race-based restrictions. The Act granted funding, instead of land, and resulted in the designation of a set of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as Land-Grant universities to begin receiving federal support for teaching, research and Extension programing intended to cater to underserved communities. Passed in Congress and signed on August 30, 1890, the Second Morrill Act stipulated that African Americans were to be included in the United States Land-Grant University Higher Education System without discrimination. It further mandated states with separate colleges for Black and White citizens, to designate or establish a college to train Black students in agriculture, mechanical arts, and architecture as well. These Southern and Border States came to be known as the 1890 Land-Grant Universities and Tuskegee University.

Photo courtesy of USDA-NIFA

To date, there are 19 officially designated 1890 Land-Grant universities. These 1890 Institutions are also Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 1890 Institutions, like their 1862 counterparts, receive federal funds for agricultural research, education, and Extension through programs administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). States and territories also support these institutions with nonfederal matching funds for their land-grant programs. Congress supports the 1890 Institutions and all the other LGUs through appropriations, legislation, and oversight.

Nationally, these 19 universities comprise the 1890 Land-Grant University System. Central State University, founded in 1887, is the most recent 1890 Land-Grant University, gaining its designation status in 2014-125 years after it started fighing for it.

Central State University, founded in 1887, is the most recently designated 1890 Land-Grant University, gaining its designation in 2014. Central State University applied but was not able to gain its designation during the time the Second Morrill Act was enacted. However, thanks to renewed efforts of its alumni, administration, and state and federal supporters, it finally gained the 1890 Land- Grant status in January of 2014 – more than 120 years after its initial quest at the U.S. Congress and the Ohio state legislature levels. *(This article was adapted from USDA-NIFA and APLU website sources) https://www.nifa.usda.gov/about-nifa/blogs/celebrating-second-morrill-act-1890 https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/blog/2015/07/15/celebrating-the-125th-anniversary-of-the- morrill-act-of-1890/

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Central State University 1400 Brush Row Road Wilberforce, OH 45384

Jose Ulises Toledo, Ph.D. Vice President for Research and Economic Development & Director, 1890 Land-Grant Programs Cyril Ibe, Ph.D., Managing Editor/Interim Communications Coordinator, cibe@centralstate.edu Crystal Duckett, Editor/Media Relations Specialist, cduckett@centralstate.edu Jesse Montgomery, Photographer/Videographer, jmontgomery@centralstate.edu

Extension Alcinda Folck, Ph.D. Associate Extension Administrator

Agricultural Research and Development Program (ARDP) Shafiqur Rahman, Ph.D. Associate Research Director

Seed to Bloom Botanical and Community Garden pictured. Photo taken Summer 2024 by Land- Grant Communications

Contact: 937.376.6276 landgrantcommunications@centralstate.edu

Non-Discrimination Statement In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact CSU Extension at 937-376-6568. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. Central State University is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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