Three faculty members in DSU’s College of Agriculture and Related Sciences recently received funding through the USDA Capacity Building Grant Program.

Dr. Sathya Elavarthi, assistant professor in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, received a grant titled,  “Integrating Agricultural and Cultural Experiences in Student Training: A Study Abroad Program to Ghana,” in the amount of  $299,975.

 “This is an excellent opportunity for DSU students to gain international experience and the best part is the grant will pay for travel expenses for all selected students,” Dr. Elavarthi said.

This grant will expand the limited study-abroad choices usually available to minority students by providing participants with opportunities for direct interaction with individuals and institutions involved in Ghanaian

agriculture. Through this program, undergraduate students will learn about and appreciate the culture, agriculture and economy of Ghana, while gaining workforce preparedness in global agriculture.

Delaware horticulture crop growers are facing growing demand from consumers for locally produced foods and increased concern about the environmental impacts of agriculture. In response, Dr. Rose Ogutu, State Horticulture specialist for Delaware State University Cooperative Extension, received funding for her grant, “Increasing Horticulture Based Outreach and Extension Program Activities by Delaware Cooperative Extension,” in the amount of  $247,230. This project will help local growers improve their production techniques and yields by providing them with greater access to agriculture demonstrations, including organic production, and season extension models at the DSU Outreach and Research Center in Smyrna. Growers will also learn the value of networking, using direct marketing, and developing an electronic and social media presence to help promote their products.