Get ready to cultivate some knowledge! Kendall Rae Johnson, who holds the title of the youngest farmer certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is teaming up with Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) for an exciting new virtual program. This initiative aims to introduce young students to the world of agriculture and the vibrant culture of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
From Backyard Garden to USDA Certification
Johnson’s journey into farming started at just three years old, inspired by her great-grandmother’s garden. What began with growing collard greens quickly blossomed into a full-fledged passion. Her parents supported her burgeoning interest, transforming their yard into a garden for her fourth birthday. This early dedication led to the family launching the aGROWKulture farm in May 2020, which has since expanded and gained national recognition.
By last year, Johnson had become the youngest person in the U.S. to hold a farming tract ID for a business generating revenue from her farm. Beyond her own agricultural success, Johnson is committed to empowering others through her books, a youth STEAM program, and her non-profit, Kendall Rae’s Green Heart Organization, which offers workshops and environmental programs.
Introducing the ‘Activate’ Program
The new virtual program, aptly named “Activate,” is a collaboration between Johnson and PVAMU’s College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. It’s designed to connect middle school students virtually with PVAMU professors, faculty, and staff. This initiative is particularly timely as PVAMU aims to double its enrollment in the coming years, addressing a national decline in student numbers.
Poppy (Jocelynn) Johnson, Community Services Coordinator at PVAMU, explained the program’s goals: “Working with someone like Kendall Rae, who is young and ambitious and is ready and has been to multiple university campuses. So working with her and her network to create this ‘Activate’ program, bring students in virtually throughout the year with sessions every month and they’re going to get to connect directly with the professors, faculty, and staff here…”
Building Future Pipelines
The hope is that “Activate” will not only spark interest in agriculture but also provide a comprehensive look at college life, research opportunities, and the broader impact of agriculture. The program aims to build a pipeline of students who are aware of PVAMU and understand how agriculture touches every aspect of life, potentially leading them to choose PVAMU for their higher education.
The digital component of the program is slated to begin rolling out by the spring semester, offering a fresh and accessible way for young minds to explore the possibilities within agriculture and at an HBCU like Prairie View A&M.
What are your thoughts on this innovative program connecting youth, agriculture, and HBCUs? Share your ideas in the comments below!