Mississippi Youth Agriculture Programs Sow Leaders of Tomorrow
In partnership with: Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce
The average age of the Mississippi farmer is approximately 60 years old. This aging producer population has raised much concern for local officials, prompting action – the development of two programs aimed at overcoming agriculture workforce challenges facing Mississippi.
Two Groups, One Goal
The Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance youth program works with school-aged students interested in learning about agriculture and workforce development. Students engage in hands-on activities such as vegetable cultivation and livestock management. Additionally, they are paired with farmers to assist with research and hands-on farming tasks.
“Many schools in Mississippi do not have access to agricultural programs,” says Carolyn Jones, director of the Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance. “We wanted to address this issue through our youth program by cultivating and growing the next generation of youth in agriculture.”
The Mississippi Ag Youth Council (MAYC) was created in 2021 by Andy Gipson, Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, to provide students with an experience that cultivates leadership and career development.
Each year, 14 high school seniors are selected to explore all aspects of the agriculture industry.
“We take a holistic approach,” says Nick Hall, MAYC director. “Our main goal is to develop students into the future generation of farmers, lawyers, ecologists, agronomists and so on that comprise Mississippi’s No. 1 economic driver – agriculture.”
Workforce Development
The MAYC provides students with behind-the-scenes and hands-on experience so that they can explore agriculture in a way they otherwise could not.
Farm and agribusiness tours and volunteer opportunities provide insight into the day-to-day operations. Students are also exposed to the governmental and law-making side of agriculture.
“My hope is that council members gain a deeper appreciation for agriculture,” Hall says. “Agriculture impacts everything in our society. We need young people to rise to the occasion. We are in the business of developing high-quality people who hold high-quality jobs.”
Participants in the youth program are empowered to explore their personal interests while learning about agriculture.
Jones says the program exposes students to many aspects of the industry. Children of all backgrounds participate, including those with developmental disabilities.
“All children deserve access to learning opportunities,” Jones says. “We include the children in every aspect of the learning process. Our goal is to provide them with education and empower them to grow and pursue their interests. We want these kids to be well-rounded so that they can make good financial and future career decisions.”
See more: Youth Take Leadership Positions in Mississippi Agriculture
Where Are They Now?
The Mississippi Ag Youth Council (MAYC) helps students jump-start their careers in agriculture. Delton Boone and Regan Hand, 2021-22 MAYC members, credit the council for helping to jump-start their success in their future endeavors. Samuel Brown and Tylan Watson are former youth program participants who have gone on to pursue higher education in agriculture-focused fields.
Delton Boone
Currently, Delton Boone is a junior at Mississippi State University, where he studies agribusiness with a concentration in policy and law. He says the council played an instrumental role in setting him up for future success.
“Volunteering for a veterans concert and spending time at the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation are two experiences that helped set me on the path I’m on now,” Boone says. “Thanks to the MAYC and those two events, it was easy to see a future in agriculture policy.”
Regan Hand
Now a junior at Mississippi State University, Regan Hand majors in agricultural education, leadership and communications, with a concentration in teaching. After graduation, she plans to enter the workforce as a high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor.
“MAYC provided me with an even deeper understanding of how to better care for and promote Mississippi agriculture,” Hand explains. “I’ve kept an open mind to different opportunities, which led me to apply for my internship with Mississippi Bug Blues. The MAYC is an amazing opportunity for anyone passionate about agriculture.”
Samuel Brown
Currently, Samuel Brown is a junior 1890s Honor Scholar at Alcorn State University, where he studies agribusiness management. He recently worked as a summer intern with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency.
Tylan Watson
Currently, Tylan Watson is a student at Northwest Community College, where he studies animal science. After graduating, he plans to pursue a bachelor of science degree from Alcorn State University in agricultural sciences with an emphasis in animal science.