A Conversation on Change: SU and LSU AgCenter Program

Both Southern University and Louisiana State University have agricultural programs that are well rounded. However, they are both looking forward to a change to continue the growth and well being of their department. On Friday, February 26, 2021, Xavier Bell, an LSU Alumni and Chair of the Education Subcommittee, hosted the school’s first annual bi-monthly meeting, also known as, “A Conversation on Change.” The LSU AgCenter and College of Agriculture Council for Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Change presented this event. The Zoom call featured Dr. Bill Richards, LSU Vice President for Agriculture and Dean of LSU College of Ag, and Dr. Orlando F. McMeans, Chancellor of Southern University Agriculture Research & Extension Center and Dean of College of Agricultural, Family & Consumer Sciences. The event was open to faculty, staff, and students of SU, LSU, SU Agriculture Center, and LSU Agriculture Center.
The main goal of this conversation was to focus on the diversity of the two programs, including faculty, staff, and students. The two schools initially began collaborating around the 1980s. LSU had the forestry program, which left Southern to grow their own urban forestry program. Dr. McMeans reflects on the fact that diversity is very dear to him, saying that “Race, gender, and all that is included” should not be a cause of worry within the program. He also speaks on how people are denied a chance to succeed due to those reasons and due to sexuality. Although this is a “touchy point,” both gentlemen see that this is a high concern in regards to this issue today. Dr. Richards states that “We need more African-Americans with PhDs. Diversity starts at the basic level and it will grow. That means beginning with undergraduate, moving on to grad school, and finally to the Ph.D. level.” In summary, the growth of the program must start early which leads to the recruitment part of the program.
Recruitment must be made a priority for both the schools. However, each school has a different approach and reasoning for its recruitment. LSU chooses to target specific groups, such as the African American community. They also focus a lot on scholarships. As said earlier, the main goal is to focus on the diversity aspect. However, Southern sees that there is a stereotype of agriculture. Everyone must play a part to grow the program and demystify the stereotype. Reforms and Committees are also very important for the next generation of AG.
The two programs work together under an MOU under the Louisiana Corporate Extension Service. It is understood that there is lots of work to be done. Although there are differences between the two programs, Dr. McMeans said it best by noting that one cannot put “themself on a shelf.” Everyone must respect each other’s brand and what they bring to the table. Dr. Richards says, “That it is never going to be perfect.” However, communication is the key to success. It will keep from lack of trust amongst the two programs.
With over 100 viewers on the zoom, 31-32 perishes involved, both schools are very optimistic about the near future. They are looking forward to the direction they are heading in. It was emphasized that they cannot continue only talking about the issues and they must begin acting on them. Be on the lookout for upcoming events for both agricultural programs.