The problem 

In its inaugural year, the program "Celebrating People in Agriculture" had the challenge of establishing a new program in a community where I had just started. The community has limited available information and resources.

The educational program response:

The program impact or participant response to the education program, "Celebrating People in Agriculture," is evident through the positive feedback, increased engagement, and tangible benefits observed within the local agricultural community. Here's a summary of the program impact and participant responses:

Positive Feedback and Testimonials: Participants in the program, such as Kimberly Shackleford, have provided positive feedback, emphasizing the importance and value of the classes offered. This feedback indicates that the program has successfully addressed the needs and interests of its target audience.

Increased Participation Over Time: Despite starting with low participation rates, the program has witnessed a gradual increase in the number of participants throughout the year. This growth demonstrates that the program has effectively attracted and engaged individuals within the community.

In summary, the program impact and participant response reflect a positive and transformative influence on the local agricultural community. Participants have not only benefited from the educational offerings but have also become advocates for the program, recognizing its value in advancing their agricultural knowledge and practices. The program's success is measured by its ability to empower individuals, strengthen community connections, and contribute to a thriving and sustainable agricultural landscape.

The participants/target audience:

The participants or target audience for the education program "Celebrating People in Agriculture" were primarily individuals and groups within the local agricultural community in the program's area of operation. This included:

Small limited Farmers: Both experienced and novice farmers seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in various aspects of agriculture, such as crop management, livestock care, and sustainable farming practices.

Limited Agricultural Enthusiasts: Individuals with a keen interest in agriculture, even if they were not directly involved in farming, wished to learn more about modern farming techniques, food production, and related topics.

Local Community Members: Residents of the community are interested in supporting local agriculture, understanding where their food comes from, and becoming more self-sufficient in food production.

Students: Agricultural students and aspiring farmers from local schools and universities eager to gain practical insights and hands-on experience in the field.

Agricultural Organizations: Representatives from agricultural cooperatives, associations, and organizations looking to expand their expertise and share knowledge with their members.

Entrepreneurs: Individuals interested in exploring opportunities in agribusiness, value-added farm products, or related ventures.

The program aimed to be inclusive and accessible to a wide range of participants, regardless of their level of experience in agriculture. By targeting this diverse audience, "Celebrating People in Agriculture" aimed to foster a sense of community, promote knowledge sharing, and contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of agriculture in the region.

Other partners (if applicable)

University of Kentucky Extension Whitley County Office,  Dr. Patrick Angel of the Southeast Kentucky Sheep Producers Association l

Program impact or participant response.  

Kentucky State University's program, "Celebrating People in Agriculture," embarked on a remarkable journey over the past year, offering diverse educational classes designed to empower individuals in the agricultural sector. From drone use in agriculture to soap production, this program, spearheaded by dedicated experts like William Rogers, Laura Rogers, Dr. Jessie Lay, and many others, has not only celebrated the rich agricultural heritage of Kentucky but has also played a pivotal role in fostering innovation and sustainable practices within the community.

One of the standout highlights of this program was the introduction of classes on drone use in agriculture, led by William Rogers, a drone specialist from Kentucky State University. These classes opened new doors for farmers, allowing them to harness the power of technology to optimize crop management, reduce costs, and increase yields. Farmers like Kimberly Shackleford, who emphasized the essential nature of these classes, recognized the importance of staying ahead in the ever-evolving field of agriculture.

Throughout the year, the program continued to provide valuable insights and knowledge to the agricultural community. Laura Rogers, the Small Farm Area Agent from Whitley County, delivered a "Chicken 101 Basics" class in February, equipping attendees with essential knowledge for poultry farming. In March, Dr. Jessie Lay, DVM, and David Perry addressed the critical topic of goat health, focusing on fecal egg count—a vital aspect of livestock care.

April witnessed the Kentucky State University Small Farm Conference, Eastern Kentucky Style, an event that brought together farmers, experts, and enthusiasts to share ideas and best practices. May showcased the culinary arts, with Andrea Munoz guiding participants in "Cooking with Herbs," emphasizing the value of locally sourced ingredients.

As summer arrived, Sheri Crabtree presented "Small Fruits Production for Kentucky Growers" in June, promoting sustainable horticulture practices. July's "Cooking for and with the Farm" by Andrea Munoz program highlighted the art of turning produce into a marketing tool. August delved into chicken processing and production, facilitated by Steven Skelton, a farm technician from Kentucky State University.

Laura Rogers returned in September to discuss "Worm Development for Soil Composition," an essential topic for soil health and sustainability. October introduced the fascinating world of "Value-Added Farm Products: Soap Process," led by Laura Rogers and Andrea Stewart, a local farmer and soap producer.

In November, Dr. Patrick Angel of the Southeast Kentucky Sheep Producers Association led the "Ky Sheep Education Dinner," enhancing knowledge about sheep farming. Finally, December's class on "Social Media for Farmers" by Bailey Vandiver empowered attendees to utilize modern communication tools for their agricultural endeavors.

Throughout the year, these classes collectively attracted over 250 participants, reflecting the community's thirst for knowledge and eagerness to adapt to changing agricultural practices. As Kimberly Shackleford rightly emphasized, these classes were not a luxury but a necessity, enabling individuals to acquire essential skills for producing food sustainably.

Kentucky State University's "Celebrating People in Agriculture" program exemplifies how education and community engagement can foster positive change within the agricultural sector. It has empowered individuals, strengthened the local farming community, and paved the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for Kentucky's agriculture. The impact of these classes will continue to ripple through the community, ensuring a thriving and resilient agricultural landscape for years to come.

In summary, the program impact and participant response reflect a positive and transformative influence on the local agricultural community. Participants have not only benefited from the educational offerings but have also become advocates for the program, recognizing its value in advancing their agricultural knowledge and practices. The program's success is measured by its ability to empower individuals, strengthen community connections, and contribute to a thriving and sustainable agricultural landscape.