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Cultivating Legacy and Leadership: Inspiring Youth at the 2024 Thomas Monroe Campbell Day

Date: Decemberr 12, 2024; for immediate release

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Location: ϲͼ Campus - Chambliss Building

Students at Cango Wildlife Ranch

The inaugural TM Campbell Day at ϲͼ celebrated the achievements of Thomas Monroe Campbell, the first Extension Agent. It introduced 24 youth (10 males, 14 females) and two adult chaperones to the legacy of extension services. Participants, ranging from 6th to 11th grade, engaged in activities highlighting TM Campbell’s impact.  

Information sessions were conducted for students to learn about various topics, including the “Jesup Wagon,” the ϲͼ Cooperative Extension Program, and its reach throughout the Alabama Black Belt, agriculture, college majors, academic funding, careers, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.  Participants learned about the importance of agriculture for food sustainability and the protective mechanism plants developed for improved production.  Regarding hands-on activities, students identified plants in the environment as monocots and dicots, brainstormed modern uses for the Jesup Wagon, played a STEAM-focused Jeopardy game, and presented their innovative Jesup Wagon ideas in a pitch competition.

Students also planted trees, fostering environmental stewardship, and received an inspiring motivational talk from Provost Dr. S. Keith Hargrove. The event provided a dynamic blend of history, science, and practical skills, leaving participants informed, inspired, and equipped for future success.  

Special thanks to Janet Sullen, Dr. Richard Whittington, Tiffani Williams, Justin Tate, Ronald Smith, and ϲͼ faculty and staff, including Provost Hargrove, for their support and contributions to the success of this inaugural event.

Photos:

Students plant a tree in front of the Carver Integrated Sustainability Center (CISC) 

Students identifying different species of plants

The students drawing of the Jesup Wagon and agriculture 

A group picture of the students with Dr. Keith Hargrove, TU Provost

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