The A in FAMU with Dillon

Transcript

Hello, everyone. I chose to return to Florida A&M University for graduate school because of its strong legacy in agricultural excellence, access to scholarships, and most importantly, the opportunity to be a leader in food and agricultural sciences. FAMU provides resources, mentorship, and the environment for me to turn my passion of agriculture into beneficial research and service.

One of my most meaningful contributions at FAMU has been helping establish the First Fruits Garden, a student-led initiative rooted in experiential learning and community engagement. This project creates a hands-on environment where students actively apply plant and soil science principles beyond the classroom.

The garden integrates edible, ornamental, and pollinator systems, allowing students to explore agriculture holistically while promoting sustainability and wellness. Students are involved in every stage, from soil preparation and planting, to irrigation, pest management, and harvesting. We’ve already produced successful yields, including our first watermelon tasting, symbolizing a transition from concept to tangible impact.

The First Fruits Garden is more than just a garden. It’s a platform for leadership, service, and agricultural empowerment, strengthening the connection between education, community, and sustainable food systems. My research focuses on creating affordable hydroponic systems and microbial food safety, specifically evaluating E.

coli persistence in controlled growing environments. This work highlights the importance of sustainable soilless agriculture while addressing food safety risk, ensuring that innovative growing methods can produce safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible food systems. I’m deeply committed to teaching the next generation how to grow their own food by providing hands-on experiences that connect science to everyday life.

By establishing my own agriculture utopia, I aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and confidence to cultivate their own food systems through community, workshop, and engagement. Thank you for your time, everyone, and be well.