My American FFA Degree: Taylor Lutz

I remember walking into the ag room my freshman year, not knowing what I was getting myself into, but knowing that I was following in the footsteps of my great grandfather, father, brother and sister. I soon found myself getting very involved and thoroughly enjoyed being a part of something bigger than myself. In the first week of class, our teacher asked us to write down three goals for ourselves to accomplish by the end of our time in high school FFA, at the top of my list was “get my American degree.” When I turned in my goals, I knew I had set the bar high for myself and I had a lot of hard work ahead of me if I wanted to achieve this goal. Upon high school graduation, and transitioning to college, I knew the time had come to apply for my number one goal that I had set for myself as a freshman in high school. After submitting my application last December, I was anxious to know the status of it constantly. It was just this past August when I received an email from the National FFA, and in the subject line was American degree. I quickly stopped what I was doing to open the email and find my name on the list. As soon as I found it, I screenshotted the list, and sent it to my family. Although it may read my name on the degree, there were many other names that helped me achieve this honor. I feel an American degree is not an achievement for just the individual whose name printed on the degree, but rather an accomplishment for all that has helped them get to where they are now. With that, receiving my American degree was a big accomplishment for me, but I truly could not have done it without the help and support of my chapter, friends, agriscience instructors, and most certainly my family. Thank you to all who have helped and supported me along the way and congratulations to all who have achieved this high honor!

Lutz with her American Degree.

ACEL Weekly Update – November 29, 2017

Upcoming Events
November 29 – Citation Needed, 5:15pm, 114 Parker Food Science
December 1 – Ag Comm 5194 Three Minute Thesis Presentations and Treats, 10:10am-12:10pm, Ag Admin 205 December 5 – Food and Fellowship with CFAES Faculty, 7:30-10am, Kottman Hall
December 6 – Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow meeting, 6pm, Ag Admin 205
December 17 – Autumn Semester Graduating Senior Luncheon, 11:15am, Ag Admin Auditorium

More Ohio Union Activities Board events.

News
On our website
Check back next week!

On our Blog

ACEL In the News

George Dickson, alum ’60, Obituary: George DicksonSalem News Online
Taylor Orr, agriscience education student, Roundup of FFA news for Nov. 23, 2017, Farm & Dairy
Meredith Oglesby, agricultural communication student, Hillsboro FFA attends 90th national conventionHillsboro Times Gazette
Chuck Cline, alum ’93, Edison grads gain FFA degreesThe ReviewAutumn Semester Graduating Senior Luncheon
Every year, the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences’ Academic Programs Office congratulates its graduating seniors prior to Autumn Commencement at an annual Graduating Senior Luncheon. We look forward to this year’s event as students, faculty, college administrators and guests come together for a luncheon and short program.

The Autumn 2017 Graduating Senior Luncheon is planned for Sunday, December 17 from 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the Agricultural Administration Auditorium.

Graduate Student Specific Info
Graduate Student Spotlight: Fally Masambuka

Scholarships

CFAES Scholarship Application NOW OPEN!
Any current student wishing to be considered for a college scholarship for 2018-2019 must complete the online college scholarship application between November 1, 2017 to February 15, 2018 in order to be considered. Current students receiving scholarships from CFAES must reapply to be eligible. Selection will be conducted spring semester. Generally, the criteria for these scholarships include a declared major in the college.  Those who are selected to receive a College and/or Department scholarship will be notified via mail in June 2018. Please note we will only notify students who have been selected as a scholarship recipient. More information and application information available here.

Education Abroad
SUMMER 2018 PROGRAMS:
Australia: Sustaining Human Societies and the Environment – ENR (May 7 – June 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 15, 2018

China: Ag. Energy and Environment and Sustainable Buildings: China-US Collaborations – FABE (June 8 – July 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 3rd, 2018

Czech Republic: Sustainability and Agricultural Policy in the EU – AEDE, FAES (May11 – June 9, 2018)
Application Deadline: February 1, 2018

India: Sustainable Food Production in an Emerging Economy – FABE – (May – June, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 3rd, 2018

New Zealand: Sustaining Human Societies and the Environment – ENR (May 7 – June 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 15, 2018

Internship and Job Opportunities
Internship Openings
Kellogg Company – Brand Design Intern
Ohio 4-H, Animal Sciences – Student Intern
Texas CASA – Community Engagement Intern

Full-Time Job Openings
Cuyahoga Community College – Project Manager/Writer, Marketing (Cleveland, Ohio)
Equine Affair – Marketing Associate (New London, Ohio)
Louisiana State University – Assistant/Associate Professor of Agricultural and/or Extension Education
Maryland Zoo – Digital Media Coordinator (Baltimore, Maryland)
NAAE –
Ohio State, Social Work – Program Manager
Ohio State Extension, Cuyahoga – Program Coordinator
Pesticide Action Network – Communications Director (Minneapolis, MN)
University of Kentucky – Communications Officer (Lexington, Kentucky)
University of Kentucky – Graphic Artist (Lexington, Kentucky)

Jobs to check out on Hire-A-Buckeye 
(must be logged in to Hire-A-Buckeye to see these job listings)
Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership

Extension and Teaching Jobs

Ohio Ag Ed Openings

Alumni Spotlight: David Little, ’78

[ACEL]: David, why did you select agriculture education as your major?
[Little]: I selected agricultural education because it combined two of my passions: agriculture and helping young people.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
OSU was the premier school for agricultural education and I couldn’t picture myself anywhere else. Go Bucks!

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career?
I felt that the Department of Agricultural Education was one of the best in the country.  The agricultural education major gave me the knowledge and confidence to work with young people. My family farming experience proved  beneficial to compliment my studies and helped me to become a truly “hands on” vocational agriculture teacher for over three decades.

What were you involved in as an Ohio State Student?
I was involved with the Agricultural Education Society for two years and Navigator Bible Studies.

What classes did you enjoy most at Ohio State?
Agriculture education methods and animal science nutrition were a couple of my favorites. I really enjoyed agricultural education methods with Dr. L. H. Newcomb. He modeled and encouraged many of the traits of a good teacher. The longer I taught the more I could see how important it was to provide opportunities for students to utilize the hands on learning approach.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
Graduation day was awesome! My twin brother had graduated from Ohio State as well, so it was a special honor for my parents to have two sons with degrees from The Ohio State University. Later, my younger brother also graduated from Ohio State and both of my children received bachelors and graduate degrees from OSU, so the Buckeye legacy is strong in the Little family.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
I became the vocational agriculture teacher at Eastwood High School in Luckey, Ohio and I had the privilege to spend my entire 35 years teaching agriculture at Eastwood.

During your career, have you received any awards or honors?
I received the District I Young Teacher of the Year Award. I received the Honorary State Degree and Honorary American Degree from the National FFA Organization. I was named to the Wood County Agriculture Hall of Fame and was honored to be named the Grand Marshal of the Wood County Fair. Upon my retirement I also received proclamations from my state representative and my congressional representative.

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
At my final FFA Awards Banquet the students and parents surprised me with a rock honoring my 35 years at Eastwood.  It now sits in my front yard as a reminder of the great years as an agriculture teacher. Having the privilege of touching lives for so many years is the best memory of all.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Enjoy your days at OSU. You can’t get a better degree.

What did ACEL cultivate in you?
The department gave me great opportunities and I am so grateful for my time at OSU.

 

 

Graduate Student Spotlight: Fally Masambuka

Fally with daughter Emma (left) and sister Linga (right).

Fally Masambuka is the social chair for the Graduate Student Association (GSA) so you may receive e-mails from her detailing various events and happenings that all ACEL graduate students are welcome to attend.  In an effort to get to know each other a bit more, Fally has offered to be the first student to be highlighted in this Graduate Student Spotlight.

Fally was born in Zomba, Malawi and raised in the capital city of Lilongwe where she completed her elementary and secondary education. Lilongwe is located in the central plains region of Malawi and features a humid subtropical climate. Lilongwe has a short wet season that runs from December to March and a dry season the rest of the year. Lilongwe has a population similar to that of Columbus at just over a million people.

Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, has a subtropical climate and is known for tilapia chambo, a delicacy found only in Lake Malawi.

Fally completed her undergraduate degree at Bunda College of Agriculture which is now known as Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR).  After completing her undergraduate degree at Bunda, Fally traveled to the United States where she earned her Master’s degree in Agricultural Communication at Purdue University in 2013.  After earning her MS, Fally returned to Malawi where she worked for the Ministry of Agriculture in the Department of Extension Services as the chief Agricultural Communications officer.  In 2016, Fally joined the graduate program here at OSU where she is completing her PhD in International Development.  Fally is hoping to conduct her doctoral research in Malawi where she will look at how Agricultural Communication can be used promotes farmer’s participation in agricultural programs.  She is specifically interested in understanding which voices are being heard and which voices are not.

Fally is here in Columbus with her husband Emmanuel, and her four-year-old daughter Emma but still misses her family back in Malawi.  It is difficult to be so far away from family and Fally recently had to miss the wedding of one of her sisters.  She keeps in touch with the family through WhatsApp and her daughter especially misses playing with Fally’s youngest sister, Linga, who is seven years old.  Aside from family, Fally misses the access to local and indigenous foods in Malawi.  One specialty is dried pumpkin leaves. Malawi is also famous for a type of tilapia know as tilapia chambo which is only found in Malawi.

Fally with husband Emmanuel

Fally can be found in the Graduate Student office in 109 Agricultural Administration building and is the Social Chair of the Graduate Student Association.  She would like as many ACEL graduate students as possible to participate in GSA events and is open to any suggestions you might have.

Weekly Update – November 22, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving! We are so thankful to have you as students in our department and that you allow us to be part of your college education experience.

Upcoming Events
November 23 – Ohio State Thanksgiving Dinner
November 28 – Agricultural Education Society Meeting, 7pm, Ag Admin Auditorium
December 5 – Food and Fellowship with CFAES Faculty, 7:30-10am, Kottman Hall
December 6 – Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow meeting, 6pm, Ag Admin 205
December 17 – Autumn Semester Graduating Senior Luncheon, 11:15am, Ag Admin Auditorium

News
On our website

Check back next week!

On our Blog

ACEL In the News

Merritt Corbin, alum ’41, Three picked to join Hardin County ag hall of fameLima Ohio News
Kayla Walls, agriscience education student, What is ‘Illibuck’? The story behind the Ohio State-Illinois rivalryWKYC
Alexis Howell, agriscience education student, Paulding FFA travel to the 90th FFA National ConventionWest Bend News

Ohio Collegiate Agri-Women Student Organization
A new student organization at Ohio State and within CFAES will be having a meeting November 28th at 7 pm in 164 Howlett Hall. This is the chapter’s second meeting, with opportunities to become involved.

Farm Bill Conversation Presentation
On November 28 at 6:30 pm in 164 Howlett Hall, Collegiate Farm Bureau will have John Torres of Ohio Corn and Wheat on campus to discuss the upcoming farm bill, how it affects us, and fielding any questions you may have.

Student Council Presents Food and Fellowship with Faculty
Formerly known as Donuts with the Dean, Food and Fellowship with Faculty is an event put on by the CFAES Student Council to help connect students with the dean and faculty members and to take time to get to know others within the college. Please take a quick study break to come out to meet new people, grab some free breakfast, and connect with our faculty and deans on Tuesday, December 5 from 7:30am-10am in Kottman Hall Lobby. If you have any questions seek a council representative, or email Monica Pennewitt (.2) or Amy Wilber (.37).

Calling all aspiring farmers!
The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) is coordinating a Begin Farming Apprenticeship Program that has openings for  apprentices to work on certified organic vegetable farms in Ohio for the 2018 growing season. The Begin Farming Apprenticeship Program is an educational program for aspiring farmers to gain hands-on experience and skills necessary to begin a career in organic agriculture. Ideal candidates will have a strong commitment and desire to beginning a start-up farming operation of their own.

Apprentices will gain on-farm experience in the daily production practices of a mixed vegetable operation. In addition to this paid position, apprentices will attend off-farm educational workshops, participate in skill-sharing on host farms, tour exemplary farms, and connect with other apprentices and early career farmers through networking opportunities.

Applications are now open for the 2018 growing season!
To learn more about the program, including requirements, and to apply, please visit:http://policy.oeffa.org/apprenticeAutumn Semester Graduating Senior Luncheon
Every year, the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences’ Academic Programs Office congratulates its graduating seniors prior to Autumn Commencement at an annual Graduating Senior Luncheon. We look forward to this year’s event as students, faculty, college administrators and guests come together for a luncheon and short program.

The Autumn 2017 Graduating Senior Luncheon is planned for Sunday, December 17 from 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the Agricultural Administration Auditorium.

Graduate Student Specific Info
Check back next week!

Scholarships

CFAES Scholarship Application NOW OPEN!
Any current student wishing to be considered for a college scholarship for 2018-2019 must complete the online college scholarship application between November 1, 2017 to February 15, 2018 in order to be considered. Current students receiving scholarships from CFAES must reapply to be eligible. Selection will be conducted spring semester. Generally, the criteria for these scholarships include a declared major in the college.  Those who are selected to receive a College and/or Department scholarship will be notified via mail in June 2018. Please note we will only notify students who have been selected as a scholarship recipient. More information and application information available here.

MACA Young Leader Scholarship Program
The Mid-America CropLife Association is pleased to announce the continuation of the Young Leader Scholarship Program (YLSP) for the sixth year as we believe it benefits students who have an interest in agriculture. MACA is an association made up of basic manufacturers, distributors/formulators and allied industry from the crop protection industry.
Benefits for the students:
·         Networking and interaction with professionals in the agriculture field.
·         A monetary scholarship.
·         Participation in the MACA Annual Meeting in Des Moines, Iowa in September.
The Ohio deadline is Wednesday, January 10 and applications can be found at http://www.maca.org/. Completed applications should be emailed to macascholarships@gmail.com.

Education Abroad
SUMMER 2018 PROGRAMS:
Australia: Sustaining Human Societies and the Environment – ENR (May 7 – June 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 15, 2018

China: Ag. Energy and Environment and Sustainable Buildings: China-US Collaborations – FABE (June 8 – July 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 3rd, 2018

Czech Republic: Sustainability and Agricultural Policy in the EU – AEDE, FAES (May11 – June 9, 2018)
Application Deadline: February 1, 2018

India: Sustainable Food Production in an Emerging Economy – FABE – (May – June, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 3rd, 2018

New Zealand: Sustaining Human Societies and the Environment – ENR (May 7 – June 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 15, 2018

Internship and Job Opportunities
Internship Openings
Agri-Pulse Communications – Intern
Audubon – Climate Campaign and Outreach Intern (Washington DC)

Audubon Magazine – Editorial Intern (NYC)
Audubon – Education Intern (Dayton, Ohio)
Audubon – Education Intern (Cold Spring, New York)
Audubon – Education Intern (Dallas, Texas)
Audubon – Marketing and Communications Intern (Troy, New York)
Beefmaster Breeders United – communication internship
Certified Angus Beef – Producer Communications Intern (Wooster, Ohio)
City of Dublin, Ohio – Communications Intern (Dublin, Ohio)
CG Life – Marekting Communication Internship 
FarmHer – Communications Intern (Ubrbandale, Iowa)
Kentucky Department of Agriculture – Summer Internships
Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission – Social Media/Communications Internship(Columbus, Ohio)
Monsanto – Science Communications Intern (St. Louis)
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association – Public Policy Internship (Washington DC)
NiSource – Communication Intern (Columbus, Ohio)
Northwest Youth Corps – Community Engagement Conservation Intern (Corvallis, Oregon)
Select Sires – Summer Internship (Plain City, Ohio)
South Dakota Wheat Growers – Summer Marketing Internship 
SUIDA – Communication Intern
Trusted Media Brands – Social Media Intern (NYC)
Tyson Foods – Marketing Intern (Springdale, Arkansas)
Worthington Industries – Communications Intern (Worthington, Ohio)

Full-Time Job Openings
American Seed Trade Association – Marketing & Communications Manager(Alexandria, Virginia)
Appalachian Center for Economic Networks – Special Projects Coordinator (Athens, Ohio)
Association for the Developmentally Disabled – Education Coordinator (Westerville, Ohio)
Audubon – Communication Manager (Phoenix, Arizona)
Audubon – Communications and Marketing Coordinator (Fort Collins, Colorado)
Audubon – Communications Manager (Chicago, Illinois)
Audubon Magazine – Editorial Fellow (NYC)
Audubon  Education Manager (West Alton, Missouri)
Bowling Green University – Assistant Director of Enrollment Communications (Bowling Green, Ohio)
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden – Coordinator of Visitor Information Systems and Fun (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Corban University – Agriculture Program Department Chair (Salem, Oregon)
Experience Columbus – Director of Marketing (Columbus, Ohio)
Highland Community College – Director, Marketing and Community Relations (Freeport, Illinois)
Indiana Wesleyan University – Graphic Designer (Marion, Indiana)
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Fundraising Campaign Manager (Columbus, Ohio)
National Swine Registry – Director of Education and Outreach (West Lafayette, Indiana)
Ohio Academy of Family Physicians – Communications Manager
Ohio Christian University – Lancaster Recruiter (Lancaster, Ohio)
Ohio Farm Bureau – Organizational Director (Athens, Meigs, Gallia and Lawrence)
Ohio State, Undergrad Admissions – Program Coordinator (Columbus, Ohio)
Ohio State, Miami County Extension – Program Coordinator, Farm Analysis Tech
Ohio State, Defiance County Extension – Program Coordinator, Farm Analysis
Ohio State, Mahoning County Extension – Program Coordinator, Farm Analysis 
Ohio State, Licking County Extension – Program Coordinator, Farm Analysis
Ohio State, Pickaway County Extension – Program Coordinator, Farm Analysis
Ohio State, University Marketing –  Photographer
Ohio State, CFAES – Associate Dean & Director of Academic Affairs
Ohio State, Lima – Dean and Director
Ohio State, Mansfield – Dean and Director
Ohio State, Nursing – Recruitment and Recognition Coordinator
Ohio State, Ohio Union – Event Planning Coordinator 
Ohio State, Lake County Extension – Office Associate 
Ohio State, Engineering – Communications Coordinator
State of Ohio, Supreme Court – Multi-Media Reporter/Producer (Columbus, Ohio)
Progressive Publishing – Editorial Internship
St. Augustine Alligator Farm – Education Specialist (St. Augustine, Florida)
SUDIA – Assistant Director of Communications
Sul Ross State University – Assistant Professor of Industrial Technology
U.S. Meat Export Federation – Programs and Social Media Specialist

Jobs to check out on Hire-A-Buckeye 
(must be logged in to Hire-A-Buckeye to see these job listings)
Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership

Extension and Teaching Jobs

Ohio Ag Ed Openings

North Carolina Ag Ed Openings
Texas Ag Ed Openings
New Mexico Ag Ed Openings
Colorado Ag Ed Openings
Arkansas Ag Ed Openings
Pennsylvania Ag Ed Openings
Michigan Ag Ed Openings
Indiana Ag Ed Openings
Tennessee Ag Ed Openings

Graduate School
Arizona State University
California State – Chico
Clemson University
Colorado State University
Kansas State University
NC State University
Oklahoma State University
Penn State University
Purdue University
The Ohio State University
University of Georgia
University of Florida
University of Minnesota
University of Missouri
University of Virginia Tech
University of Wisconsin – River Falls

OSU Master of Applied Economics Info Session
Curious how a Master of Applied Economics degree can help further your career? The Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics invites you to our Master of Applied Economics Information Session on Wednesday, November 29 from 5-6pm in Ag Admin room 250.

Come meet faculty and staff from the department to learn how this one-year professional program can increase your knowledge and skills in business, analytics, risk management, assessment, and mathematics! Please reach out to Andy Lugar, Recruitment and Admissions Coordinator at lugar.13 or 614-292-3599 withs questions.

Volunteer Opportunities
Check back next week!

Alumni Spotlight: Brenda Seevers ’91

[ACEL]: Hi Brenda! Why did you select your major?
[Seevers]: My first two degrees (BA, MA) were in Home Economics.  I chose those areas because I had been an active 4-H member and had a wonderful HS teacher role model.  My first professional position was a county extension 4-H agent in Saratoga, New York.  From there I moved to Wyoming where I was a state 4-H specialist.

Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
While employed at the University of Wyoming I was selected to participate in the National 4-H Executive Development Institute. Two extension professionals from each state were selected with the goal of future extension leadership being promoted from within. Participants were encouraged to pursue a PhD. Ohio State not only had a nationally known, quality PhD program in agricultural education, but it was close to family.  A graduate assistantship was offered, finalizing my decision.

How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
When I started a doctoral program at Ohio State, my intention was always to continue a career within the Cooperative Extension Service. While at OSU, I had the opportunity to work with CES administrative and academic faculty.  I also had the opportunity to be a graduate teaching assistant. At that time I found I enjoyed classroom teaching as much as non-formal education.  My current position at NMSU allows me to do both. As a faculty member in agricultural and extension education, my primary responsibilities are preparing future Extension professionals. This allows me to maintain an extension focus while being engaged in classroom instruction, conducting research and advising students.

While you attended Ohio State, how were you stay active outside of the classroom?
As a graduate assistant, I worked in the State 4-H office and the program development/evaluation offices for CES. I was also a member of Gamma Sigma Delta.

What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State? What was your favorite and why?
I really enjoyed all my classes.  Ones that were most transferable were research methods, youth program management, program planning and evaluation.

What professor, faculty or staff member had an impact on your education/career? How?
Since I have taught a graduate research methods for over 26 years, the research series probably has had the most impact.  Dr. Emma Lou Norland was a great mentor.

What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
There is not one thing in particular, however the friendships made and the collegiality with fellow graduate students and faculty have been long lasting.

What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
My first job following completion of my PhD in 1991 is also my current job. I am a faculty member in the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Throughout your career, where you have you worked?
1979-84: county extension agent, 4-H, Saratoga County, New York
1984-88: program specialist, 4-H/Youth Development, Wyoming Cooperative
Extension Service, University of Wyoming, Laramie
1988-91: graduate research and teaching associate, Ohio State University
1991-present: faculty/professor, Department of Agricultural and Extension
Education, New Mexico State University
2011-16: board member and project manager, International NGO,
Lifestitches.org  – economically empowering HIV+ women in Uganda
(volunteer role)

During your career, have you received any awards or honors? If so, what are those?

  • First author of the textbook “Education Through Cooperative Extension” now in 3rd edition
  • 2011: Promoted to Distinguished Achievement Professor,  special NMSU university
    recognition give to a few faculty each year Teaching Honors and Awards
  • 2009: Western Region Distinguished Service Award, AAAE
  • 2006: Western Regional Outstanding Teacher Award, NACTA
  • 2004: Gamma Sigma Delta, Distinguished Award for Graduate Teaching/Advising
  • 2004: NMSU Collegiate FFA, Outstanding Teacher in College
  • 2003: Western Region Association of Agricultural Educators – Distinguished Teaching Award (Regional)
  • 2001: NACTA Teacher Fellow Award (National)
  • 1998: Food and Agricultural Sciences Excellence in Teaching – USDA (Regional)
  • 1997: El Paso Natural Gas Faculty Achievement Award (University)
  • 1996: Finalist for El Paso Natural Gas Teaching Award
  • 1996: Western Region American Association of Agricultural Educators Outstanding Young Member Award (Regional)
  • 1995: Donald C. Rousch Excellence in Teaching Award (University)
  • 1994: National Association of College Teachers of Agriculture – Teaching Award of Merit. (College) Research and Scholarly Achievement Awards
  • 2014: Outstanding Services.  Association for International Agriculture and
    Extension Education.  Miami, FL.
  • 2008: Distinguished Research Award.  Western Region American Association for Agricultural Educators.  Park City, UT.
  • 2004: Gamma Sigma Delta Distinguished Award for Graduate Teaching Advisement.  Las Cruces, NM.
  • 2004: 3rd Place Paper Presentation. 20th Annual meeting of the Association for International Agricultural and Extension Education.  Dublin, Ireland.
  • 2002:. Author of the Year Award (1st runner-up) – Journal of Agricultural Education (Vol. 42, 1). presented at annual AAAE meeting, Las Vegas, NV.
  • 2001, December. Author of the Year Award (1st runner up) – Journal of Agricultural Education (Vol 41, 3) presented at annual AAAE meeting, New Orleans, LA
  • 2000:  E. B. Knight Journal Award – Outstanding Journal Article – NACTA Journal, (Vol 43, 4) presented at annual conference in Doylestown, PA.
  • 1997:  Author of the Year Award – Journal of Agricultural Education (Vol. 37).  1996 Co-authored article. Presented at annual AAAE meeting in Las Vegas, NV.
  • 1995:  Winner of Outstanding Poster Session Award.  Presented at annual AAAE Meeting in Las Vegas, NV
  • 1995: Winner of Outstanding Poster Session Award. Presented at Annual Western Regional AAAE Meeting.  Phoenix, AZ.
  • 1993-96: NVATA 30 Minute Club Publishing Award, 1993-96

Service Awards

  • Outstanding Service, AIAEE, 2014
  • Senior Fellow – AIAEE, 2013
  • Distinguished Service Award, AAAE, Western Reg., 2009
  • International Connoisseurs of Green & Red Chili, 2003
  • Honorary Member of the Sam Steel Society, 1997
  • United Local School, Hanoverton, Ohio
  • one of first six inductees into Wall of Fame, 1997
  • NAE4-HA Distinguished Service Award, 1986

As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
There is not one thing in particular but in general the opportunity to advise and mentor students.  The greatest reward is the ability to see them grow and succeed. I have also become more engaged globally in research and teaching.

What advice would you give to a current student?
Seek out and take advantage of every opportunity. Always do you best, but don’t be afraid to fail, learn and grow from it. Give back. The greatest rewards are not the plaques and certificates but the satisfaction of a job well done.

What did ACEL cultivate in you? How?
Take pride in who you are and what you do.  Agricultural education does make a difference.  Lives are changed – locally, nationally and globally.

 

 

Centennial Endowment Fund

His senior year of high school, Cody decided to pull back from FFA duties and focus on a future as math teacher.

If not for a dedicated agriculture teacher – part of a long history of alumni from The Ohio State University – Cody would be on a very different path in life right now and not following his dream.

His agriculture teacher and FFA advisor convinced him to stay involved. On a bus ride back from the Ohio FFA Convention, Cody thought, “I don’t want this to be my last time.”

Just like that his direction changed. “I knew my path needed to be in agricultural education, and I wanted to go to the best possible place for that – OSU.” He turned down a full ride scholarship from Bowling Green and headed to Ohio State’s Agricultural Technical Institute (ATI) and then the Columbus campus.

Cody knew he had a future at OSU and the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) because of its strong history of cultivating students. You know this too – whether you knew us as Agricultural Education, Human and Community Resource Development, or ACEL. For the last 100 years, ACEL has made a huge impact on the agricultural world and beyond. I’m asking you to help shape the next 100 years by supporting our Centennial Fund so that we can reach the next generations of Cody’s. Help more students follow their dream by ensuring that ACEL’s future is as strong as its history.

You have been an essential part of our last hundred years. We need your support as we embark on the next hundred. Please give today.

 

Sincerely,

Tracy Kitchel, Ph.D.
Professor and Chair

P.S. Cody’s passion and drive got him to Ohio State, but it takes a community to cultivate a student. Your gift today will help the next student and countless more to come.

Industry in the News

Education

Prioritize ‘Agriculture Extension Services’ In Ghana

Businesses sponsor FFA jackets

Communication

We’re converting Agri Country to digital

Local Leaders: Agriculture feeds, clothes the world

Community

Food insecurity is a serious issue in Ohio — how can you help?

Florida agriculture still reeling from Irma damage, relief sought

Leadership

Educator honored as Grand Rapids Art Council Volunteer of the Year

Agricultural Fair Ladies Gain Hall of Fame Status

Industry 

Avocados From Mexico celebrates 20 years in the United States

Of steak and sizzle (and antibiotics)

ACEL Weekly Update – November 16, 2017

Upcoming Events
November 17 – Flicks for Free: It
November 28 – Agricultural Education Society Meeting, 7pm, Ag Admin Auditorium
December 6 – Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow meeting, 6pm, Ag Admin 205

More Ohio Union Activities Board events.

News
On our website

Check back next week!

On our Blog

ACEL In the News

Dr. Ivory Lyles, alum ’90, Ivory Lyles fills new position for Cooperative Extension/CABNRNevada Today
Jaime Chenevey, alum ’99, ’05, Holmes SWCD honors conservation effortsFarm and Dairy
Dr. Kris Boone, alum, Ohio State University President Drake visits ATI, The Daily Record
Whitney Clagg, agriscience education student, Local youth earn FFA awardsGallipolis Daily Tribune
Cody Myers, agriscience education student, GCCC student receives FFA awardXenia Daily Gazette

ACEL Centennial Shirts
Agricultural Education Society is selling t-shirts and sweatshirts to celebrate the ACEL Centennial. Shirts are heather red with the white centennial logo on the front. T-shirts ($15)  can be purchased at any Agricultural Education Society Meeting or in 208 Agricultural Administration.

MANRRS Annual Friendsgiving Dinner
You are cordially invited to the MANRRS Annual Friendsgiving Dinner Event on Sunday, November 19 at 6pm in the Ag Admin Auditorium. You can RSVP here. Questions can be directed to davis.4849@osu.edu.

CFAES Student Survey
Invitation to complete a survey about your experience as a student in CFAES
CFAES Students will be receiving an invitation to participate in a survey that our college is conducting on students’ perception of the climate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. In a few days, you will receive an e-mail from Dr. Kathy Lechman, Director Equity and Inclusion for the College. Completing the survey for the study will take less than 20 minutes and is accessible on-line. Your participation is voluntary; my informing you of the opportunity should not be perceived as a direction to complete the survey.    If you have any questions about this research project please contact Dr. Lechman at lechman.1@osu.edu or 614-247-7176Graduate Student Specific Info
There is a meeting tonight in the OSU Physics Research building from 5:30pm – 7pm to plan the next stage of action against the proposed tax bills. More information can be seen here.

Scholarships

Check back next week!

Education Abroad
SUMMER 2018 PROGRAMS:
Australia: Sustaining Human Societies and the Environment – ENR (May 7 – June 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 15, 2018

China: Ag. Energy and Environment and Sustainable Buildings: China-US Collaborations – FABE (June 8 – July 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 3rd, 2018

Czech Republic: Sustainability and Agricultural Policy in the EU – AEDE, FAES (May11 – June 9, 2018)
Application Deadline: February 1, 2018

India: Sustainable Food Production in an Emerging Economy – FABE – (May – June, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 3rd, 2018

New Zealand: Sustaining Human Societies and the Environment – ENR (May 7 – June 1, 2018)
Application Deadline: January 15, 2018

Internship and Job Opportunities
Internship Openings

Grades of Green – Enivornmental Education Intern (El Segundo, CA)
Gulfstream Communications – Graphic Design Intern (Charleston, SC)
Gulfstream Communications, Charleston Weddings – Editorial Intern (Chalreston, SC)
Gulfstream Communications, Chalreston magazine – Editorial Intern (Chalreston, SC)
Gulfstream Communications, WNC magazine – Photography Intern (Asheville, NC)
Gulfstream Communications – Photography Intern (Charleston, SC)
Gulfstream Communications – Video Intern (Chalreston, SC)
Gulfstream Communications – Video Intern (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Gwinnett County – Public Education Intern (Gwinnett County, GA)
National Audubon Society, Inc. – Education Intern (Dayton, Ohio)
Northwest Youth Corps, Siuslaw National Forest – Community Engagement Conservation Intern (Corvallis, Oregon)
Phoenix Symphony – Education Intern (Phoenix, Arizona)
Safelite Group – Graphic Design Intern (Columbus, Ohio)
Stanley Black & Decker – Graphic Design Internship (Towson, MD)
TechSmith Corporation – Graphic Design Intern (Okemos, MI)

Full-Time Job Openings
AGCO – Manager, Public Relations (Duluth, GA)
American Lung Association – Executive Director (Ohio)
Bader Rutter – Social Media Specialist (Milwaukee, WI)
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio – Program Coordinator (Columbus, Ohio)
Camris International – Communications Specialist
CHS Inc. – Agronomy Sales, Account Manager (Ohio)
City of Santa Rosa, CA – Communications and Intergovernmental Relations Officer (Santa Rosa, CA)
Cornell University – Communications Coordinator (Ithaca, NY)
Cornell University – 4-H Youth Development Educator (New York)
DuPont – Academic Relations Manager (Johnston, IA)
FLM – Public Relations Writer (Minneapolis, MN)
Georgia Farm Bureau – Public Policy, National Affairs Coordinator (Macon, GA)
Hocking College – Department Chair, Agriculture & Animal Sciences (Nelsonville, Ohio)
Jewish Family Service Association of Cleveland – Development Coordinator(Beachwood, Ohio)
Kansas State University – Communications and Marketing Specialist (Manhattan, KS)
LP&M Advertising – Agribusiness Public Relations Manager (Syracuse, NY)
Missouri Beef Industry Council – Director of Consumer Affairs (Columbia, MO)
Missouri Farm Bureau – Multi-Media Specialist
National Coop Grocers – Advocacy/Communications Specialist (Iowa City, IA)
NatureWorks LLC – Graphic and Digital Content Designer (Minnetonka, MN)
Nestle – Organization Development Manager (Solon, Ohio)
North Carolina State University – Extension Agent, 4-H (Hayesville, NC)
Pesticide Action Network – Communications Director (Minneapolis, MN)
South Dakota Soybean Association – Executive Director (Sioux Falls, SD)
Southern State Community College – Adjunct Faculty for Agriculture (Hillsboro, Ohio)
Texas Department of Agriculture – Communications Officer (Austin, Texas)
University of Idaho – Communications Specialist (Boise, Idaho)
University of Maryland – Communications Coordinator (College Park, Maryland)
University of Minnesota – Partnership Outreach Coordinator (Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN)
Wood County Humane Society – Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator (Bowling Green, Ohio)

Extension and Teaching Jobs

Ohio Ag Ed Openings

North Carolina Ag Ed Openings
Texas Ag Ed Openings
New Mexico Ag Ed Openings
Colorado Ag Ed Openings
Arkansas Ag Ed Openings
Pennsylvania Ag Ed Openings
Michigan Ag Ed Openings
Indiana Ag Ed Openings
Tennessee Ag Ed Openings

Graduate School
Arizona State University
California State – Chico
Clemson University
Colorado State University
Kansas State University
NC State University
Oklahoma State University
Penn State University
Purdue University
The Ohio State University
University of Georgia
University of Florida
University of Minnesota
University of Missouri
University of Virginia Tech
University of Wisconsin – River Falls

Jobs to check out on Hire-A-Buckeye 
(must be logged in to Hire-A-Buckeye to see these job listings)
Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership

Volunteer Opportunities
Check back next week!

My American FFA Degree: Maggie Hovermale

By Maggie Hovermale
Williamsport, Ohio
Agriscience Education
Sophomore

On October 28, 2017, I zipped up and unzipped my blue corduroy jacket for the final time. Getting an American FFA Degree is something that all FFA members are encouraged to strive for, and I was in denial that it was finally my turn. I had spent many FFA conventions as a member sleepily watching people from my chapter walk across that stage to receive that gold key. So much time and experiences have happened between then and now and I’m so thankful for the young woman I am today because what that blue jacket has taught me.

That day was a special one, because it marked the first two American FFA degrees from Stoneridge FFA, the chapter I helped to build from the ground up with my peers, and my agricultural educator who is an ACEL alum, Mrs. Rachel Scior, ’04. I had held in the tears in until Mrs. Scior pulled me aside and said, “Thank you. You helped build this FFA chapter and I’m forever grateful for your dedication. You are leaving a lasting impact.” I felt so humbled and so much love from that statement… and then began to cry.

That moment reminded of me of exactly why I am pursuing a degree in agriscience education, to leave a lasting impact. I thought I’d be sad hanging up my jacket for the final time, but instead felt excited knowing that the next chapter of my life is full of hope, leading, teaching, and soon taking my own group of students to convention.

 

Maggie wth her advisor Mrs. Rachel Scior, after receiving her American FFA Degree.

 

Maggie with members of the Stoneridge FFA Chapter.

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