Equipping Next Gen Ag Leaders

There will be two mentee cohorts accepted into this program, with 12 mentees in each cohort (24 mentees total). The first cohort will run from fall 2024-spring 2025. The second cohort will run from spring -summer 2025. Applications for the spring 2025 cohort are due December 16th, 2024.

Thank you and congratulations to the incredible mentees and other partners in the previous cohort. You can find out more about the previous program on the archived website here, read final mentee communication projects on the 1 Mississippi site, and view videos and photos here of mentees Lia Carrillo, Guolong Liang, Gurparteet Singh and Aaryn Wilson presenting their personal reflections on the cultural roots of conservation at the 2023 Soil & Water Conservation Society Annual Conference in Des Moines, IA.

Gopika was born in Kerala, India but grew up across the country, sparking a love for diverse cultures and strengthening her adaptability. Her interest in plant science began in a high school Mendelian genetics class. With no family background in agriculture, she pursued a bachelor’s in Agricultural Sciences at Tamil N

adu Agricultural University, Trichy. Gopika connected with farmers during field seasons and participated in a 90-day Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) program, where she learned about their crop production strategies and shared scientific knowledge. Realizing her passion for developing plants to meet human needs and contributing towards global food production, she pursued a master’s in plant Breeding and Seed Science at the University of Hohenheim, Germany. She faced challenges moving abroad but grew from the experience. Her master’s thesis, focused on Fusarium head blight resistance in durum wheat at the University of BOKU, Austria, deepened her interest in small grain breeding for disease resistance. Currently, Gopika is a third-year PhD student in Plant Breeding and Genetics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where her research includes rapid generation advancement for cultivar development through speed breeding and covered smut resistance screening in barley to reduce fungicide use.

“If you ever hear me talking to plants then believe it. I strongly feel that by understanding them and nurturing their well-being, we ultimately nurture our own.”

Taonga Msimuko comes from Zambia, where he developed a deep passion for agriculture at an early age while farming with his parents. This early exposure inspired him to pursue a career in agriculture, with a particular interest in sustainable farming practices. Taonga interned at the Ministry of Agriculture in Zambia, where he trained farmers in sustainable agriculture as part of a government initiative aimed at reducing land degradation. This experience deepened his understanding of sustainable farming techniques and their importance in environmental conservation. In 2024, Taonga began his master’s degree in plant sciences at North Dakota State University. His research focuses on the agronomic performance of intermediate wheatgrass in both monoculture and intercropping systems. He envisions an agricultural future that is sustainable, resilient, and regenerative, where farming systems work in harmony with nature rather than against it.

April Parker was born and raised in the South Chicagoland region, where her passion for agriculture took root during quiet mornings spent in her grandparents’ backyard. There, she played in the soil, growing fruits and vegetables—an experience that nurtured her deep connection to the land. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Ecology and a minor in Spanish from Loyola University Chicago, followed by a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability with a concentration in Environmental Law and Policy. Her commitment to environmental justice and love for plants led her to pursue a second master’s degree at Northwestern University, earning a Master of Science in Plant Biology and Conservation. She previously worked as a Grower at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Windy City Harvest, where she co-taught environmental literacy programs, trained youth in urban agriculture, facilitated community outreach, and supported sustainable farming practices. April is the founder of Diversity in Plant Diversity (DPD), a nonprofit led by Black and Brown farmers, scientists, and advocates dedicated to fostering equity and sustainability in the South Chicagoland region. April and her team are developing an urban farm on the South Side of Chicago to combat food insecurity and create a community-centered food hub. This initiative will provide residents with access to fresh, nutritious, and culturally relevant food, while strengthening local food resilience and fostering deeper community engagement.

Maria Mazala is a dedicated Ph.D. student in the Department of Plant Sciences at North Dakota State University (NDSU), advised by Dr. Marisol Berti. She holds a Master of Science degree in Plant Sciences from NDSU, where she gained comprehensive expertise in plant breeding, genetics, and molecular breeding applications. Currently, as a Ph.D. researcher, Maria investigates transcriptomic and gene expression patterns in alfalfa intercropped with sunflower under field conditions, utilizing RNA sequencing and molecular analysis to understand plant interactions. She is passionate about integrating biotechnology with sustainable agricultural practices to enhance crop resilience, improve food security, and promote environmental sustainability. As a participant in the Equipping Next Gen Ag Leaders Mentorship Program, Maria aims to expand her expertise in regenerative agriculture and conservation-focused farming systems. She looks forward to collaborating with mentors and peers to develop science-driven solutions that support resilient agricultural landscapes and sustainable food systems.

Sithin, originally from India, is a dedicated PhD student in Agronomy and Plant Genetics at the University of Minnesota. His academic journey began with a strong interest in sustainable agriculture, leading him to work at the University of Florida, where he focused on agronomy research in peanuts and specialty crops such as industrial hemp and winter carinata. Currently, Sithin is channeling his expertise into exploring weed management through integrated management techniques. His research aims to develop strategies to mitigate the use of herbicides in soybean weed management, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. Sithin’s vision is to advance environmentally friendly approaches to farming, ensuring long-term benefits for agriculture and inspiring future generations to pursue innovative and impactful agricultural careers.

Tessa Sadae Parks is a half Japanese-Filipino farmer, co-owning and operating W.T. Farms with her spouse, Wyatt, raising cattle and hay. Growing up surrounded by her Asian family, Tessa learned early on the importance of food for people as well as the land. These lessons are demonstrated in the management practices used on their farm like continuous living cover and rotational grazing. Off the farm, Tessa joined Clean River Partners as the Agricultural Conservation Program Coordinator this past fall after working in organic certification. Her work in agriculture has also led to advocacy work at the state and federal level for emerging farmers and climate-smart practices. Prior to working in agriculture, she worked in a local brewery and a cidery after earning her BA in Chemistry at St. Olaf College. Photo by Kellie Weiland.

Eva Weddell is an Ihanktonwan Dakota from South Dakota. She has spent her time harvesting and learning more about culturally important plant species. She has interned with the Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program at the University of Washington working with the Swinomish Tribe. Her work included harvesting Camas and developing contemporary recipes with Camas. Recently, she interned with the Intertribal Agriculture Council and the Brave Heart Society at their Medicine Garden. Now, she is in the agroecology masters program at the University of Wisconsin. Her research is part of the Sustainable Agricultural Systems Coordinated Agricultural Program: Indigenous Food Systems. The project focuses on intercropping with an indigenous white corn variety.

Sofia is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship with a background in Food Systems. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with farmers, policy-makers, and community organizations to promote regenerative practices that enhance soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. Sofia is committed to advancing practices that support both the economic viability of farms and the long-term health of our ecosystems, and is excited to join the Next Gen Ag Leaders program to further her efforts in transforming agricultural landscapes and driving positive environmental change.

Destiny Fisher is a Resource Conservationist with the Soil and Water District, working to implement sustainable agriculture practices that protect soil and water resources. As a proud member of the Catawba Nation and a student at Unity Environmental University, she is passionate about creating a sustainable future. After earning her degree, she plans to move to South Carolina to support her tribe’s food sustainability program, increasing access to fresh, locally grown food and promoting sustainable farming. Through the Green Lands Blue Waters Next Gen Ag Mentoring program, she aims to gain skills, connect with mentors, and build a network to drive meaningful change in her community.

Delicia Garcia is the plant manager for the Stacyville Poultry Processing plant, where she oversees quality assurance and production. Delicia obtained a B.A in Agro-industrial Engineering at Chapingo Autonomous University in Mexico. Afterward, she gained two years experience at a swine facility before moving to Minnesota to join the RAA leadership team. Through her education and conducting different research projects on the quality of food, she developed a strong interest in lab work and food production, and is deeply committed to ensuring the quality of food products. Delicia has a solid background in food safety and quality operations and a passion for upholding high standards in the meat poultry industry.

David Wilkerson-Lindsey is a black farmer, scientist, and lifelong Chicago Southsider broadly interested in agroecological transitions, agroforestry systems, and science communication. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where he completed a B.S. in Integrative Biology / Earth, Society, & Environmental Sustainability. During this time a study abroad trip to Costa Rica opened his eyes to alternative forms of agriculture. Leading him to pursue research opportunities in animal behavior and greenhouse gas emissions from rotational grazing systems. Outside of academia, he has worked for an environmental restoration firm doing invasive removal and controlled burns around the Great Lakes, which included growing hundreds of species of grasses and forbs indigenous to the midwestern prairies for the native plant nursery. He then returned to his hometown to work for the Chicago Botanic Garden’s urban agriculture division Windy City Harvest. Here he was able to take his production skills to the next level, running an urban farm and orchard, leading youth education programs, and teaching classes at a community college. 

David is currently a Master’s student in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Michigan and planning to pursue his Ph.D. in Fall 2025. He splits his time between researching arthropod diversity in Puerto Rican coffee farms, teaching courses on food systems, and volunteering at urban farms in Detroit. David is also the Co-Director of a 501(c)(3) organization Diversity in Plant Diversity. Working to advance sustainable, local, and culturally relevant food systems through urban agroforestry by planting a food forest and developing a communal native plant nursery to address food insecurity and improve urban ecosystems across the south side of Chicago.

Danny Jacobo is an agricultural associate with the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC), Saint Paul, MN. He obtained his bachelor’s from the University of Northern Iowa in environmental science. While completing his degree, Danny participated in research projects towards water pollution, environmental justice, and food sovereignty. Early in his career, Danny moved to the Twin Cities where he worked at Pine Bend Refinery. Here he upheld EPA regulatory standards that pertain to air emissions. Now in his role at LEDC, Danny has worked to understand the needs of local farmers. Danny’s goal while at LEDC is to help these farmers meet their goals and realize their potential.

Amit’s journey into agriculture began subconsciously in his childhood while assisting his father in their kitchen garden. His fascination with plant life cycles, interactions, and morphology led him to pursue agriculture academically. He earned his BS (Hons.) with University Merit from Punjab Agricultural University, India, which broadened his understanding of global agricultural issues. Amit was also actively involved in co-curricular activities, receiving College Color and College Merit awards for theatre and volunteering with the National Service Scheme, where he participated in initiatives like the Clean India campaign, tree planting, and public speaking. As an intern-extension agent during the 2018 pest epidemic, Amit disseminated effective farm techniques and recommendations to farmers.

During his Master’s studies, Amit was awarded a Presidential GRA at The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley, focusing on modeling weather parameters affecting citrus canker disease, aiding growers in making better management decisions. He was recognized as the best TA for teaching Plant Morphology in Fall 2022 and received the Buddy Scholarship for supporting incoming international students and organizing cultural events.

Amit began a PhD program in applied plant pathology at UW-Madison in Spring 2023 with the goal of becoming a researcher who can assist farmers directly and educate future generations about the importance of food production and sustainability. Part of his current project focuses on biocontrol in soybeans, specifically on the application of the biocontrol agent Coniothyrium minitans. He aims to provide sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions that significantly reduce dependency on chemical fungicides while maintaining equivalent yield benefits.

“I believe in striving for constant learning and improvement, and in sharing that knowledge so we can all play a role in and grow together towards the betterment of society. I hope that as the years pass, I continue to gather ample knowledge and experience to satisfy my passion for helping the farming community to the best of my abilities.”

Angad graduated with a B. S. in Biology before returning to southern India to volunteer with the Isha Foundation for three years. There, he was given the opportunity to work with the Center’s agroforestry department, the Save Soil initiative – a global movement to raise awareness about soil degradation, and later with Isha Sacred Walks, where he supported various sojourns in northern India and Nepal. Now, as a Graduate Student in Agroecology, Angad is looking to further his passion for nutritional security and sustainable development. His master’s project involves research on intermediate wheatgrass, alfalfa, and silphium, and he is particularly interested in the interconnectedness between agriculture and soil.

“I imagine a world that, once again, cares about agriculture and those who are engaged with it. From my experiences in rural and urban India, as well as my recent exposure to agriculture in the United States, I have been reminded of the stark disconnect that a large portion of “common” citizens have from where their food originates. This disconnect is, I believe, at the heart of many of the issues we see in further organizational structures. Therefore, I think it is imperative that more people are made aware of the beauty (and challenges) of agriculture.”

Dakson is an agronomist and advocate of sustainable and organic agriculture, with a deep interest in biodiversity and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. His passion for biodiversity began during childhood on a farm where his father cultivated different crop species and raised livestock. Dakson focuses all his professional and research activities on innovative, environmentally friendly farming practices and strategies capable of improving soil fertility, controlling pests, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing farmers’ yields and income. He contributed to capacity building for farmers and grassroots associations during his tenure as director of the Plant Production Department at the Ministry of Agriculture of Haiti. In his country, farmers are mostly smallholders and impoverished, living under the poverty threshold in areas with low soil fertility. They cannot afford costly synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

Dakson dreams of helping those underserved small-scale farmers supersede synthetic agricultural inputs with ecological and sustainable practices to increase their productivity and build resiliency. Therefore, his research perspective is to use cover crops as cultural strategies to manage pests, soil fertility, and productivity, mitigating climate change impacts, producing complementary fodder for livestock and consequently providing a substantial response to farmers’ low soil fertility and allowing them to generate sustainably substantial yield and income.

“Increasing understanding of the needs of underserved impoverished small-scale farmers and the ecological strategies to help them reduce their carbon footprint and be sustainably productive and resilient is vital to thrive in the rural world.”

Inspired by cultural diversity, sustainable development, and agriculture, Francisco pursued a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Earth University in Costa Rica. During this time, he participated in a study abroad program in South Africa, gaining insights into himself, other cultures, and developing an openness toward the world. This transformative experience motivated him to further his education abroad. In 2019, he moved to Canada, where he earned a master’s degree at Laval University.

In Fall 2022, Francisco joined the Plant Resilience Lab at UW-Madison as a PhD student.  His research focuses on understanding the impacts of ecosystem warming on the winter responses of woody perennial plants. He aims to provide valuable insights into how some species may survive in a warmer future. He hopes to foster engaging conversations with diverse communities, sharing knowledge and insights gained from his research and learning from others’ experiences.

As an international student navigating cultural differences, he felt a strong need to find a sense of community and belonging, leading him to join MOSAIC (Mentorship Opportunities in Science & Agriculture for Individuals of Color), where he has contributed to organizing events and fostering a supportive environment for underrepresented minority students. Additionally, he has served as a program assistant for the UW Tropical Horticulture study abroad program, guiding students in exploring Costa Rica’s biodiversity, crop production, and social aspects. This experience has taught him the profound impact professors have on students’ lives and the reciprocal nature of mentorship.

“It fills my heart to witness the love farmers have for the land and their resilience despite the numerous challenges they face. I hope that by integrating scientific tools (e.g., climate-resilient crops, precision agriculture, predictive models for plant behavior under changing weather conditions) with traditional knowledge, we can better equip farmers to face environmental challenges, empowering them to adapt and thrive.”

Driven by a passion for sustainable agriculture and food production systems, Ingrids pursued a BSc in Agronomy from Zamorano University in Honduras. During her studies, she connected with diverse farmers – from small producers to large-scale operations, women-led farms, and those preserving indigenous practices – broadening her perspectives on agricultural practices.

In 2023, Ingrids joined the Agronomy and Horticulture Department at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as an MS student. Her research focuses on innovative soil management practices to enhance crop resilience, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application for farmers. As part of her program, she is developing a soil health module for educators in Nebraska, furthering her commitment to knowledge dissemination and practical education.

Simultaneously, Ingrids collaborates with one of Nebraska’s pioneering organic farms, sharing her findings with local farmers to encourage the transition from traditional to sustainable systems for future generations. She’s also active in the Agronomy and Horticulture Graduate Student Organization, organizing community-focused soil health activities.

Ingrids’ goal is to contribute to developing more resilient and sustainable agricultural systems while fostering cross-cultural understanding. She’s eager to learn from experienced mentors and share her unique perspective as an international researcher in soil health.

“My vision is an agriculture of diversity and resilience. Farms transition from monocultures to polycultures that mimic nature’s resilient systems. Soil health rebounds through regenerative practices like cover crops, minimal tillage, and managed grazing. Indigenous knowledge integrates with modern science. Localized food production nourishes communities while supply chains adapt for sustainability. Agriculture’s purpose expands beyond just feeding people to restoring ecosystems, drawing down carbon, and vitalizing rural areas. A symbiotic agriculture emerges – one dedicated to nourishing both people and the planet’s health. Producing nutrient-dense food while improving biodiversity, water quality, and soil fertility. An agriculture we can sustain for generations. Ambitious but we can at least try.”

“Agriculture is the thread that weaves together the fabric of human and environmental well-being. In the fields of tomorrow, we sow more than crops; we cultivate harmony between humanity and nature. By nurturing diversity, we grow resilience for our future. Every sustainable practice is a step towards a nourished planet, and our greatest harvest will be the legacy we leave for generations to come.”

Joey Tallier was raised on the Sokaogon Chippewa Reservation in northern Wisconsin, where he gained an interest in foraging, hunting, and fishing. These interests led him to apply for the 2016 Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program, where he would work at his local Tribal fish hatchery, helping raise and stock over eighty thousand walleye annually. That summer, Joey realized the importance of having healthy, quality food accessible to Tribal members. This led him to continue his work at the fish hatchery as he pursued schooling in business management, computer programming, and real estate. Through his schooling, he still decided his passion was in fisheries and has now taken a new position as the Great Lakes Technical Assistance Specialist for the Intertribal Agriculture Council. This position encompasses all of agriculture, including farming, fisheries, and agroforestry, as well as protecting culturally sensitive natural resources and increasing Tribal food sovereignty. Without having the typical schooling background for this type of work, he is now looking to grow his knowledge in the agricultural workspace. 

One thing I’m seeking from this program is a mentor that understands Tribal culture and how indigenous people view the land. A quote to share: “To live here and understand the world, you have to love it.” – Fred Ackley Jr.

Being raised amidst culinary traditions that highlighted sustainability, Juliana discovered her passion for advancing the Agriculture and Food Science sector. She aims to support businesses and farmers in producing healthier and more economically viable products through efficient and sustainable practices. With extensive knowledge in agriculture and a keen interest in plant and animal research, Juliana has experience in agroforestry, veterinary, and exporting industries. Her work involves gathering data, supervising, and educating smallholder farmers and students on sustainable agricultural practices in rural areas. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Sustainable Agriculture at Lincoln University of Missouri, where she is a Graduate Research Assistant studying the impact of a goat silvopasture system on the forest ecosystem.

“Adaptability and resilience are key for farming’s continued viability in the future. In agreement with the World Economic Forum’s (2009) goals, my vision for the future of agriculture is to ensure global food security while also promoting environmental sustainability and creating economic opportunities. These encompass augmenting investment, enhancing environmental sustainability, fortifying markets (with a specific focus on expanding opportunities for smallholder producers), and ensuring improved accessibility to nourishing food.”

After over 20 years of teaching English to speakers of other languages, Katherine has pivoted to international development. Her interests lie at the intersection of agroecology, nutrition security, and WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene). She is a Master Gardener Volunteer and for two years taught the online Training in Applied Agroecology Program (TAAP) for the Multinational Exchange for Sustainable Agriculture (MESA). Katherine believes everyone has the right to a healthy diet and desires to work where she can do maximum good for those who need it most. The lens with which she looks at wicked problems incorporates the Tragedy of the Commons, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Planetary Boundaries Framework. She considers herself a transdisciplinary practitioner and seeks to journey and collaborate with others to achieve improved livelihoods and well-being globally.

“I believe that our food system could be improved by replacing conventional industrialized farming methods with agroecology or regenerative farming. Agroecology conserves water and seeks to maximize yields without harming the environment. Farming in a way that nurtures nature is crucial as we need biodiversity health to thrive…I would like to see a world where farmers are respected and paid a fair wage.”

Okonkwo Kenneth hails from Nigeria, where he grew up on a farm with his parents. This background sparked his interest in sustainable agriculture, particularly in mimicking natural ecosystems to develop sustainable agricultural systems through the use of perennial plant diversity. His PhD research focuses on understanding how the above and below ground traits of the novel perennial grain crop, intermediate wheatgrass, vary in monoculture and polyculture over time.

Before pursuing his PhD, Kenneth worked with several international and local agricultural organizations, including Irritech, MyFarmBase Africa, and IFDC. In these roles, he trained youths, women, and smallholder farmers across sub-Saharan African countries on modern sustainable agricultural practices, aiming to improve their yields, incomes, and livelihoods.

Kenneth envisions a future for agriculture where economic viability and ecological sustainability are balanced through the adoption of regenerative practices that leverage the unique features of perennial crops.

“Agriculture should not only be a means of food production but also a force for environmental restoration and social justice. Through collaboration and innovation, we can create a food system that nourishes both people and the planet, ensuring a thriving and resilient future for all”.

Paulina Vergara is a dedicated PhD student in Natural Resources Science and Management at the University of Minnesota, with a BA in Environmental Engineering. As a junior researcher in the Biological Systematic research group at the Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia, Paulina has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. Her work includes coordinating a project with rural communities to identify development actions for the ecological management of the Cinco Mil microbasin in Colombia. Paulina’s research analyzes environmental problems to promote sustainable development solutions, particularly on the Rabanal paramo, a unique high-mountain ecosystem in Colombia’s Andean region.

“Understanding and preserving traditional ecological knowledge is not just about conserving the environment; it’s about honoring the wisdom of communities that have lived in harmony with nature for generations.”

Prathyusha Cheguri, hailing from India, is a dedicated PhD student in Genetics and Genomics. Her journey began with a high fascination for science, which led her to pursue a degree in Agricultural Sciences. She then earned a master’s degree in Plant Breeding and Genetics and worked as a research fellow at ICRISAT in Hyderabad, India, further solidifying her foundation in the field. Currently, Prathyusha is contributing to the transformative RegenPGC project. Here, she explores developing and de-risking perennial groundcover (PGC) systems. These systems involve planting a perennial cover crop once, which persists alongside annual crops such as corn and soybean for multiple years. This work has sparked in her a great interest in conservation and sustainable agricultural practices.

Prathyusha is eager to understand the bigger picture of sustainable practices in farms and industries and hopes to gain valuable exposure from the Next Gen Ag Leaders Cohort. Prathyusha’s vision extends to the next generation. She seeks to inspire and motivate the youth to see agriculture as a profession and a creative and profitable venture that can transform societies.

“Farmers nourish the world. Equipped with the right tools and resources, they have the power to do so sustainably. I also envision a future where young minds are drawn to agriculture, where they see the potential for innovation, sustainability, and profitability.”

Rachel is an Illinois native born of immigrant parents from Bolivia and Guatemala. She comes from a long line of subsistence farmers and holds a deep connection to culinary and cultural practices of her heritage. She received her B.S. in Conservation and Land Restoration with a focus on Sustainable Food Systems from Northern Illinois University. During her time at university she found a passion for the intersections of agriculture and social justice, primarily an interest in farm worker rights and supporting marginalized farmers. 

Following her university time, she spent various seasons in organic vegetable production in northern Illinois and Bolivia. After deciding to pause on her farming career, Rachel spent time working on program development at Northern Illinois Food Bank where she worked with program design and outreach. To begin her journey back to agriculture, she worked collaboratively with Chicago Food Policy Action Council to support their annual Food Justice Summit supporting outreach and communications for the summit. 

Now, at American Farmland Trust, she bridges her knowledge in local food production with new learnings about row crop agriculture to expand the Midwest team’s reach into diverse agricultural production systems beyond Midwest row crop agriculture. She continues to bring her passion about building connections between urban, peri-urban, and rural farming systems, primarily focused on BIPOC specialty crop farmers in the Midwest. She works toward shifting narratives around who is thought of as a “farmer” in the Midwest region and highlighting the vast backgrounds and diversity that Midwest agriculture has to offer. As a former and aspiring farmer, she is most interested in developing and sustaining solutions to create sustainable and viable farm systems, especially for emerging BIPOC farmers.

“My vision for the future of agriculture is one where farming is a sustainable career path and where representation of a variety of farming systems and cultural exchange can exist. In this vision, once thriving farming communities are revitalized and sustained. In this vision, agriculture is not a consolidation but a collective effort of growers and eaters working together…Ultimately, my vision is one that continues to reconnect people to the Earth, to the ways experiences and history can be woven into food, ancestry, story telling, and social movements.”

Celize is an Organizer at HEAL Food Alliance, where she connects members to engage in campaigns and co-leads HEAL’s FACE (Fighting Against Corporate Evil) working group. Celize came into the work of organizing and food and farm policy work by way of previously working on farmer-led education programming at Practical Farmers of Iowa, advocating and coalition building with BIPOC farmers in Iowa and broader Midwest alongside sustainable agriculture organizations. Prior to working in the Midwest Celize worked on international development projects in East Africa focused on evaluating the impact of integrating small livestock in community development projects. 

Celize earned her B.S. in Animal Science and Global Resource Systems with a minor in Spanish from Iowa State University and a M.S. in Rural Sociology and International Agricultural Development from the Pennsylvania State University. Celize’s areas of expertise include Midwest agriculture, farmer outreach, food sovereignty and justice, policy, research, agroforestry, livestock, environmental benefits of cropping systems, cross-sector collaboration, and community engagement. As a mentor, Celize hopes to provide an affirming space for BIPOC students to feel empowered to explore their ideas/goals; while navigating how to hold those in power accountable advocating for change they want to see in our food and on the landscape.

Omar de Kok-Mercado is a soil scientist and fervent advocate for thriving ecosystems and flourishing communities. With a Master’s degree in Soil Microbiology and Biochemistry and a Bachelor’s in Agroecology from Iowa State University, Omar has devoted his career to weaving perennial ecosystems into the fabric of agriculture. Currently the Midwest Regional Manager at Mad Agriculture and formerly an Agroforestry Technical Service Provider with Savanna Institute, Project Coordinator and Creative Director for STRIPS and C-CHANGE at ISU, Soil Conservationist for USDA-NRCS, and Research Technician for the USDA Forest Service and the National Lab for Agriculture and the Environment, Omar attributes his accomplishments in various high-impact projects to the inspirational colleagues and mentors he has collaborated with.

Dr. Franco is Director of Research and cropping systems scientist at the Savanna Institute and is based in Madison, WI. His research focus is at the intersection of integrated cropping systems and precision agriculture. An essential part of this work is evaluating value-added benefits of cover crops and perennial dual-use forages/crops in addition to the potential suite of ecosystem services they provide. Additionally, Dr. Franco’s research strives to create multifunctional agricultural landscapes through his research and through the important research conducted by the research team at SI. Outside of work, Dr. Franco enjoys exploring new areas, especially the countryside. He’s particularly fond of foreign crime dramas (British especially), biking and kayaking, chocolate and exploring new flavors, and visiting antique shops for unusual and rustic gems!

Dr. Franco’s areas of expertise include Midwest agriculture, equity and access, research, teaching, writing and publishing, agroforestry, cover crops, small grains or annual rotations, perennial grains and forages, dual-use crops, soil health, environmental benefits of cropping systems, and cross-sector collaboration. Through the mentorship program, he is hoping to share his own experiences with students considering graduate school or careers in agricultural-related fields. He notes, “I believe I can provide a unique perspective given my diverse background, not having grown up in agriculture, and having taken a circuitous path to my career in research. In terms of a mentee match, my only request is that the student be curious and come with a lot of questions!”

Serge Koenig has been a Sauk County natural resource professional for twenty-nine years. He has a Watershed Management degree and a Soils Minor from University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. Serge has been working with landowners and various organizations in Sauk County to sustain and improve its natural resources. He is a tireless advocate of managed rotational grazing as a tool for regenerating our soils, water and human resources. In his free time he loves spending time with his family gardening, traveling, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting and coaching basketball.

Serge works in the Baraboo/Sauk County area in Southcentral/Southwestern Wisconsin. His areas of expertise include Midwest agriculture, farmer outreach and adoption, on-farm conservation, equity and justice, farm economics/markets, livestock, perennial forage or perennial grains or biomass, soil health, environmental benefits of cropping systems, and community engagement. Through the mentorship program, Serge hopes to help ignite a passion for environmental protection in the next generation while helping a mentee figure out their meaning and purpose and live their life accordingly.

Dr. Eric Britt Moore (Britt) is an assistant professor of environmental protection at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Britt’s professional experiences include soil science researcher at the National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment, lecturer of agronomy and environmental science at Iowa State University, and cover crop specialist for Iowa State University Extension & Outreach. Britt also works to promote civic empowerment through youth and adult training programs centered on science literacy, environmental justice, and community gardening. Britt is a Chicago native, and his academic background includes a B.S. in Agricultural Science from Truman State University, a M.S. in Crop Production & Physiology and Sustainable Agriculture from Iowa State University, and a Ph.D. in Soil Physics from Iowa State University. Britt’s areas of expertise include Midwest agriculture, environmental justice, cover crops, soil health, and community engagement.

Mrs. Zintambila is also known to many as Mama Chiko, Mama Mboga, Mama Janet, Ms. JZ, Mama Mahindi and Mama Wetu. Born and raised in Kenya, East Africa, she migrated to the USA in 1979 in pursuit of further education at Iowa Wesleyan College, Mt. Pleasant IA. She subsequently obtained her Master’s degree in Counselor Education from Western Illinois University, Macomb IL. Living in the Midwest, a rich agricultural area, Mrs. Zintambila’s love for growing crops, in particular those native to her home country, Kenya, has evolved. Her late husband Professor Dr. Henry Zintambila and her sons Chiko Zintambila and Vincent Airo Mmata have worked side by side during the growing season helping in many aspects. Currently, her main crop, White Green Maize used for roasting, boiling and making Githeri a famous traditional Kenyan dish makes many ethnic families in the USA happy. Mrs. Zintambila resides in Normal, Illinois. She also works for Homes of Hope Inc in Normal.

Dr. Esther S Durairaj is the Education Director and a Research Agronomist at the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, East Troy, Wisconsin. She obtained her Bachelors and Masters in Agriculture in India, and a doctorate in Agronomy, and began her career as a Scientist with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in India . Always a proponent of sustainability, she spent her years in research working on low input sustainable agricultural systems and practices. She has great experience working on a variety of crops like rice, millets, soybeans, sugarcane, etc. As a research agronomist at MFAI, she works on organic systems and continues to engage in crop research through cover crops, industrial hemp (CBD, grain & fiber hemp) and millets, encouraging diversity in organic cropping systems, and resource conservation. 

Currently she holds the role of Education Director at MFAI. She engages with the women of Wisconsin as the Program Director of the Wisconsin Women in Conservation (WiWiC) Program Through the WiWiC project, she is excited to work with women farmers and landowners in Wisconsin bringing knowledge and resources for implementing conservation practices, all the while developing local networks to walk together in conservation. She also co-leads the Minnesota Women in Conservation, a project that is an offshoot of WiWIC. Esther also plays a big role in working with Urban Community Gardens of Milwaukee, is an experienced Grant writer, and an educator of climate action, soil health and sustainability.

Dr. Thompson is a Program Manager for the New Roots for Restoration Biology Integration Institute. In her current role, she engages approximately 100 scientists to aid in coordinating Institute-wide research and achieving organizational objectives. Dr. Thompson also supports Institute activities aimed at recruiting, training, and advancing the next generation of diverse scientists who will lead science that advances agriculture and restoration in nature. Dr. Thompson is excited to be an integral part of this multi-disciplined Institute. 

Prior to her position with the New Roots for Restoration Biology Integration Institute Dr. Thompson was a research associate at The Land Institute in Salina, KS where she focused on plant-pathogen interactions in perennial grain crops. Dr. Thompson is fascinated by the research of perennial plants as a benefit to farms by reducing: water usage, soil erosion, pollutants from runoff, and the amount of resources needed to maintain a crop. However, little is known about the pathogens that affect these systems. Dr. Thompson researched questions surrounding pathogen biology, disease build up over time, and ways to combat diseases in these perennial crops.

Jessika is a Ho-Chunk Nation tribal member from Baraboo, WI and a member of the Deer Clan. Jessika is excited to be able to share her lifework of growing and protecting our seed relatives, her desire to regenerate the soils of our Earth, and she is grateful for the opportunity to train and inspire future seed keepers. Jessika has worked as the Agricultural Division Manager for her nation and had previously served as a garden mentor within her Nation’s organic community gardens. She is a U.S. Army combat veteran and completed a Veteran-to-Farmer training program at the Rodale Institute in Pennsylvania. 

Jessika hopes to mentor young Indigenous earth stewards by incorporating Indigenous values and culture into the “new-Western-farming” practices.

Izula is a co-steward of Sankara Farm, a 27 acre, black family owned, demonstration and research urban farm in Kansas City, MO. She is also involved with Small Farm Outreach for the Innovative Small Farmers’ Outreach Program collaborating with Lincoln University’s Cooperative Extension in Jackson County, Missouri, and a member of the Agroforestry Speakers Coalition. Izula is also a Student of Traditional Midwifery and a homeschooling parent to a beautiful 12 year old son. She is a community herbalist, and returning generation farmer with over 20 years experience in specialty crops, native plants and agroforestry. She recently completed Master Gardener training to understand how to grow better crops in the midst of more extreme weather events in the Midwest, especially flooding and tornadoes. She has a growing passion for perennial agriculture, taking care of bees, soil health and food sovereignty. 

She hopes to build intergenerational networks to strengthen agricultural connections to community. Her favorite quote to live by is “people don’t care how much you know till they know how much you care.”

Dr. Valentin D. Picasso is an Associate Professor at University of Wisconsin – Madison (USA), and Adjunct Professor at the University of Uruguay. He researches forages and perennial grain crops, resilience to climate change, and ecological intensification of dairy and beef grazing systems. His Kernza intermediate wheatgrass research program at UW-Madison has demonstrated the potential of dual-use perennial grain and forage systems in terms of yield, forage nutritive value, weed suppression, root biomass, and compatibility with legumes. He has led international and trans-disciplinary research projects to link science and policy for sustainability in areas of carbon footprint, grazing systems, bioenergy, and forages. He teaches courses on International Agriculture Sustainability, Forage management, Agroecology, and Perennial Grain Polycultures.

Dr. Dharmendra Saraswat is a professor in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department at Purdue University. His primary research is in digital agriculture, specifically applying Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, open-source software, and artificial intelligence to create innovative digital tools, including datasets, smartphone apps, decision-support applications, and others, to manage the environment and agricultural production systems. In an academic career spanning over three decades, besides Purdue, Dr. Saraswat has also worked as a faculty member at the University of Arkansas, a scientist at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi, India, and an assistant professor at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, India.

Dr. Saraswat’s research has significantly impacted the agricultural industry. His contributions include the development of decision-support tools for modelers and policymakers, innovative work using deep learning algorithms for identifying corn diseases and weed counting and launching the Agricultural Informatics course curriculum that has benefited over 6,000 students across three universities in the USA since 2020. In addition, Dr. Saraswat has trained more than 900 professionals and community leaders in his professional career, further extending his influence. Dr. Saraswat’s contributions to the three core missions of the land-grant university system—research, education, and extension—have been recognized on a sustained basis by peers through the conferment of several international and national awards. His work has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Fulbright-Nehru U.S. Scholar Award (2023-24), Excellence in Multistate Research Team Award (2022), Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award (2022), Fellow of Indian Society of Agricultural Engineers (2014), John W. White Outstanding Extension State Faculty Award (2014), American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) Standards Award (2018), ASABE Educational Aids Blue Ribbon Award (2017, 2015 and 2013), ASABE Superior Paper Award (2021, 2012), American Society of Horticultural Sciences (ASHS) Outstanding App Award (2016), Southern Region-American Society of Horticultural Sciences Blue Ribbon Extension Communication Award (2016 and 2012), Excellence in Remote Sensing and Precision Agriculture Award from National Association of County Agricultural Agents(2013), Early Career Award (2011) and Innovation Award (2011) from the University of Arkansas.

Rachel (Raquel) is an Illinois native born of immigrant parents from Bolivia and Guatemala. She comes from a long line of land stewards and is committed to radical visioning and creating the future of our food systems. She holds a deep respect and appreciation for her family’s passion of farming and land stewarding that has formed her worldview and continues to shape her.

She received her B.S. in Conservation and Land Restoration with a focus on Sustainable Food Systems from Northern Illinois University. Rachel spent various seasons in organic vegetable production in northern Illinois and Bolivia. After her seasons of farming, Rachel spent time working on program development at Northern Illinois Food Bank. Her journey circled back to agriculture, through collaboratively producing the Chicago Food Policy Action Council’s annual Food Justice Summit. Now, at American Farmland Trust, she bridges her knowledge in local food production with new learnings about row crop agriculture to expand the Midwest team’s reach into diverse agricultural production systems. She works toward shifting narratives and practices around who is included in the visioning of a “farmer” in the Midwest region. She holds a deep passion to highlight the vast backgrounds and diversity that Midwest agriculture has to offer.

Rachel finds most peace and joy through movement and connection to nature around her. She practices nourishing healing through soil tending, growing in her garden, reading, and gathering around the table with coffee and her loved ones.

This is a program for graduate students or similar-stage emerging leaders interested in careers in agriculture and conservation. The 2024-2025 program cohorts* will be made up of students and leaders who are committed to reaching underserved farmers and passionate about creating a more equitable and sustainable agricultural system across the upper Midwest. This program focuses on students of color enrolled in graduate programs in agriculture, conservation or related fields (Masters or PhD) or similar-stage emerging leaders in the US Upper Midwest, particularly in IA, IL, MN, WI and MO. The many ways you may self-identify are welcome in this program. If you have questions about whether this program is a fit for you, feel free to get in touch with Green Lands Blue Waters Associate Director Aaron Reser – areser@umn.edu.

*Note that there will be two mentee cohorts accepted into this program, with 12 mentees in each cohort (24 mentees total). The first cohort began in fall 2024- and runs through spring 2025. The second cohort will run from spring -summer 2025. Applications for the spring 2025 cohort are due December 16th, 2024.

The core of this program is an eight-month mentorship experience with a dedicated mentor. Each cohort member will be matched with a mentor in a related field for a series of four one-on-one meetings over the course of the program. In addition, Dr. Akilah Martin will weave group mentoring opportunities across the other elements of the program for more chances to reflect and grow individually and together as a community.

Six trainings will be offered over the course of the program. Each training will be led by accomplished professionals with deep content expertise, as well as lived experience as a person of color working in the predominantly white fields of ag and conservation in the Upper Midwest. Sufficient time will be provided for Q&A with each training to ensure that mentees have time to engage with the trainers. Topics of the six trainings are below. Most will be offered virtually, with some training taking place at an in-person retreat.

Technical trainings

1. Addressing local natural resource issues – soil health, agricultural conservation, and continuous living cover
2. Solutions to frequent and changing weather patterns through climate-smart agriculture and conservation activities
3. Policies and programs in ag conservation to reach historically underserved farmers

Professional development trainings 

1. Setting the stage for your career journey – mentor/mentee mapping exercises
2. Affirming your career in natural resources – vocational development, job searches, tips
3. Finding your voice and your role in Midwest ag conservation

Effectively communicating science and the importance of natural resource issues is a key skill for any ag and conservation leader. Led by Jazmin “Sunny” Murphy of Black Flower Writing Services, this workshop will focus on public engagement and the importance of effectively communicating ag and natural resource challenges and solutions. Planned topics featured in this training include:

• Knowing your audience
• Knowing yourself – speaking effectively in your own voice
• Honing your key messages – accessibility without ‘dumbing down’
• Tone and language to get your point across
• Making it relatable – using visuals, analogies, on-the-ground examples, stories and humor

We are thrilled to introduce a two-day in-person retreat with a local farm visit/immersion. The in-person retreat is designed to elevate relationship building, professional development, technical training, deep reflection, well-being and wholeness, and group mentoring via shared lived experiences.We will ask you, what makes you come alive?

A note on logistics: retreat details are currently being arranged for the Spring 2025 cohort. We will do our best to accommodate mentee schedules and ensure cohort members can participate. The 2-day retreat will be led by Dr. Akilah Martin with support from Green Lands Blue Waters staff and close collaboration with our farm host. Read a recap of the fall 2024 farm visit and retreat here [link coming soon]. 

Mentees from the previous cohort reported that one of their favorite aspects of the program was spending time with farmers. We will again host a virtual farmer-perspectives learning event to hear directly from farmers about their experiences, touching specifically on experiences accessing USDA NRCS and other conservation programs. Mentees will leave the training with an increased understanding of how to reach farmers who have been historically underserved in their career.

To see a glimpse of the farmers that participated previously with this program, link here.

Green Lands Blue Waters and Dr. Akilah Martin can help connect you  to an incredible network of ag conservation organizations, professionals, and opportunities across the Upper Midwest. Ongoingopportunities – including conferences, webinars, field days, fellowship or award programs, jobs, and research opportunities – will be shared with cohort members via the GLBW Network Opps page. As we get to know mentees and their interests, Green Lands Blue Waters and AM Root Builders Inc. staff will make personal connections between cohort participants and individuals in their networks for job shadowing or informational interviews to help connect mentees to these rich professional networks.

This program covers roundtrip travel and lodging and meals at an in-person retreat.

Dr. Akilah Martin is the daughter of Laurel and James Martin. She is first and foremost in partnership with soil and water. She earned a BS degree in Soil Science from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University and her Doctorate from Purdue University in Agricultural and Biological Engineering. Dr. Martin previously held an Associate Professor and Associate Dean position at DePaul University – School for New Learning, where she was an award-winning facilitator of learning who engaged in scholarly pursuits and mentored adult learners for over 13 years. 

Her professional interests include enhancing individuals and communities’ relationships to environmental and natural resources via the interrogation of the kaleidoscope of the term justice. Her teaching, learning, and scholarly/research interests are holistically centered in connecting people and communities to the multifaceted relationship between soil and water. How she journeys through, on, and with the Earth defines who she is and the interconnectedness of her existence. She strives to have a vibrant, kinetic, energetic, and symbiotic relationship with the Earth and its entities. 

In 2021, Dr. Martin completed a yearlong detail with the Department of Defense on the Climate Action Team as a Community Resilience and Environmental Justice Analyst. Her permanent position is with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as an Interdisciplinary Planner, enhancing collaborative relationships among individuals and communities to environmental and natural resources. 

Dr. Martin is a resourceful civically engaged citizen scholar who is passionate in partnering with communities in seeking innovative and creative transformative strategies to reimagine our relationships to place and each other for social and ecological flourishing. To that end, she engages in a multitude of community projects including food sovereignty, food access, equity and justice via AM Root Builders, Inc, Roots Watering Hole Podcast, Re-Rooting Kinship Project, Chicago Grows Food, Advocates for Urban Ag, and Friends of the Forest Preserves. To that end, Dr. Martin was awarded the 2023 BEYA Science Spectrum Trailblazer award.

Finally, but not all, Dr. Martin is abundantly living life through 2 core values: Freedom and Joy. To that end, she is a certified coach specializing in building vivacious and energetic relationships with oneself, others. As a Certified Professional Coach, she leverages her passion for the Earth by supporting and encouraging her clients to channel their internal power through a symbiotic relationship with nature and themselves.

You can also find out more about Akilah’s contributions at:

http://amrootbuilders.com

www.rootswateringhole.org

http://humansandearth.com/podcast

https://www.humansandnature.org/miseducation-of-a-farmer

Green Lands Blue Waters (GLBW) is a vision for profitable agriculture based on keeping the soil covered productively year-round: farming with Continuous Living Cover. GLBW is primarily a networking organization with a broad range of partners – universities, researchers, educators, producer associations, environmental groups, businesses, nonprofits, governmental agencies, and practitioners. GLBW acts as a connector, collaborator, convener, and communicator serving multiple partners and focusing on opportunities and challenges that our partners identify but cannot tackle alone. 

You can read more about GLBW’s human-centered approach here: Our Journey to a Transformed Agriculture through Continuous Living Cover; Why continuous living cover crops and cropping systems, and a human-centered, equity-focused approach to their implementation, are imperative and exciting, and how this can look on the agricultural landscape. To hear directly from student voices in our network, check out the previous mentees in this program as well as an earlier Civic Scientist series.

Gratitude and acknowledgement to the Mississippi River Network (MRN), in particular the fabulous Maisah Khan and Kelly McGinnis, for originally envisioning this program with GLBW and co-designing the first cohort.