Tuskegee-INFAS CISC HBCU Fellowship Program (CHFP)
The Carver Integrative Sustainability Center (CISC) of Tuskegee University and INFAS partnership will be hosting it's 3rd year of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Graduate Fellowship Program for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Eight students pursuing graduate degrees in food systems, agriculture, natural resources, or related fields at HBCUs were selected for the fellowship and will receive a stipend, mentorship from faculty and community leaders, and opportunities for professional development and networking. Additionally, ten students were selected as CHFP honorees and will receive funding to attend and present at the Professional Ag Workers Conference (PAWC) and have access to additional networking opportunities through CHFP.
Current HBCU Fellows Current HBCU Honorees Current Mentors
Current Fellows
Breanna Magee
Field of Study: Law, Southern University Law Center
Breanna Magee is currently a second-year law student at Southern University Law Center. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies in 2018, both from the University of Southern Mississippi. Breanna brings valuable experience to her legal studies, having worked as a Court Clerk at the Pearl Municipal Court and as a legal assistant at the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. In 2022, she completed a Master’s in Public Administration with a certificate in Nonprofit Management. At SULC, she serves as the Historian for the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) chapter, a junior editor for the Journal of Race, Gender, and Poverty, and a Kaplan Representative. Breanna is passionate about pursuing a career in public policy within the legal field, with a particular focus on criminal law, civil rights law, and agricultural law.
Joel O. Alabi
Field of Study: Ph.D. in Sustainable Agriculture Production & Health, North Carolina A&T State University
Joel O. Alabi is a distinguished animal scientist with over a decade of experience in sustainable livestock production, specializing in nutritional interventions and feed efficiency. Currently pursuing a second Ph.D. in Animal Sciences at North Carolina A&T State University, Joel previously earned a Ph.D. in Livestock Science and Sustainable Environment from the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria. His expertise encompasses research design, coordination, and implementation, with a strong focus on molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics. Joel’s current research utilizes multi-omics technology and bioinformatics to enhance feed efficiency, improve animal productivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in beef and dairy cattle. He is also exploring the use of essential oils and nutraceuticals for methane mitigation and promotes a circular economy by recycling agro-industrial wastes as feed resources. With over 30 journal articles and numerous conference proceedings to his name, Joel has received several accolades for his academic excellence and impactful research. His career goal is to advance food and nutritional security while mentoring the next generation of leaders in the food and agriculture sectors.
Mariam Marafa
Field of Study: Nutrition and Dietetics, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Mariam Marafa is a dedicated nutritionist with a solid foundation in nutrition and dietetics. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and completed her dietetic internship at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta. A registered member of the Institute for Dietetics in Nigeria, Mariam is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Food and Nutritional Science at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Her professional background includes roles as a community nutritionist with the Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board, a dietitian/nutritionist at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, and a pediatric dietitian with Smile Train Africa, where she played a crucial role in the nutrition rehabilitation of children with cleft lip and palate. Mariam’s research interests lie at the intersection of food insecurity and social determinants of health, with a particular focus on the impact of nutrition on childhood development and women’s health.
Christiana Omojo Ugbem
Field of Study: Food and Nutritional Sciences, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Christiana Omojo Ugbem is a first-year graduate student in Food and Nutritional Sciences at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Biochemistry and Nutrition from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Christiana is passionate about addressing global challenges related to sustainable agriculture, health, and nutrition, particularly in marginalized and underserved communities. Her current research focuses on food insecurity among the rapidly growing population of older adults in the United States. Driven by a vision to create sustainable solutions that address both immediate nutritional needs and long-term health and well-being, Christiana is committed to contributing to the global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of zero hunger, good health, and well-being.
TreDarious Clifton
Field of Study: Agronomy - Integrated Pest Management (M.S. Candidate), Alcorn State University
TreDarious Clifton is a Master of Science candidate specializing in Agronomy with an emphasis on Integrated Pest Management at Alcorn State University. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management with a minor in Plant and Soil Science from Alcorn State University in May 2023. TreDarious has extensive research and extension experience in Integrated Pest Management, including plant pathology, entomology, and agronomy. His M.S. thesis is part of a national research project focusing on Small Farm Climate Smart IPM targeting underserved communities. His work includes several key projects, such as student experiential learning in urban agriculture targeting food deserts in underserved communities in Mississippi, intercropping pollinator plants with watermelons to enhance biodiversity and pest management, and preliminary surveys of pest and beneficial insects and plant pathogens impacting small farms in Mississippi. TreDarious has received third place for his research poster presentation at the Mississippi Academy of Science Plant and Soil Science Division and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Centers for Research Excellence at Alcorn State University. He is a member of the American Phytopathological Society and actively engages in leadership and service activities, including organizing workshops and internships related to IPM. TreDarious is deeply committed to supporting sustainable agriculture practices and ensuring access to nutritious, organically produced food in local communities.
Johnpaul Kagulire
Field of Study: Ph.D. in Integrative Biosciences, Tuskegee University
Johnpaul Kagulire is a Ph.D. candidate in the Integrative Biosciences program at Tuskegee University, where his research focuses on the complexities of dietary mycotoxins in corn used as complementary food in Tanzania. His work lies at the intersection of food safety, nutrition, and global health, aiming to enhance food security and improve health outcomes in vulnerable populations. Johnpaul’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology from Makerere University, Uganda, where he advanced processing protocols for edible grasshoppers. He further honed his expertise with a Master’s degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences from Tuskegee University, where his research focused on combating obesity among African Americans. His research contributions have provided practical solutions to reducing obesity in rural Alabama. As a Graduate Research Assistant at Tuskegee University, Johnpaul has led diverse projects, including investigating feeding practices among toddlers in East Africa and addressing obesity and food insecurity at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. He has held impactful roles such as a Cancer Research Intern, evaluating community knowledge on obesity and cancer, and a Food Designer Intern at Kellogg Company, where he developed innovative high-protein, plant-based snacks. Johnpaul is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Institute of Food Technologists, the American Public Health Association, and the American Society for Nutrition. He regularly presents his research at prominent conferences, inspiring discussions on critical issues in food science and nutrition. Beyond his academic pursuits, Johnpaul is an active volunteer, engaging in efforts to raise awareness about COVID-19 vaccination and nutrition education in underserved communities in rural Alabama.
Eboni Major
Field of Study: Master’s in Food Science, Alabama A&M University
Eboni Major is a CISC HBCU Fellow for the 2024-2025 year and a master’s degree student in Food Science at Alabama A&M University, with an expected graduation in Summer 2025. Her journey in food science began with a degree in Food Science and Chemistry from Alabama A&M University, where she discovered a passion for crafting exceptional products, particularly in the field of blending. Eboni’s extensive experience in distillation and blending has played a significant role in the development of well-known whiskey brands. Upon returning to her roots in Birmingham, Alabama, she continued to innovate by releasing products for small companies. In Fall 2023, she enrolled in the master’s program, focusing her research on the utilization of distillers' dry grain in food products. A pivotal moment in her career was traveling to Rwanda under a USDA NIFA Grant, where she developed a nutritionally dense product aimed at combating stunting and malnutrition, which sparked her deep interest in international agribusiness. Eboni is eager to continue her research and apply her expertise to address global food science challenges.
Sherman Cravens
Field of Study: Master’s in Food Science, Alabama A&M University
Sherman Cravens is a Master’s candidate in Food Science at Alabama A&M University, focusing on value-added food products. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Agriculture with a concentration in Animal Science from Langston University, where he gained extensive research and industry experience, including participation in the OK-LSAMP program and internships with Hormel Foods Corporation’s Jennie-O Turkey Store and Ben E. Keith’s Winn Meats processing facility. Sherman’s deep connection to food stems from his upbringing in New York City and the lessons he learned from his father, who instilled in him the belief that food, when prepared correctly, can convey a message of love. His current research at Alabama A&M aims to improve access to resources for processing goat meat and dairy products within the Huntsville and Alabama A&M communities, with a focus on supporting small and African American farmers in creating high-value products such as goat cheese. This project, conducted in collaboration with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, includes producing educational webinars and hands-on workshops, leveraging the mentorship of faculty to enhance local food systems. Sherman is committed to addressing food insecurity and increasing black involvement in food systems in Alabama, with career aspirations in Research and Development within the food and beverage sector and a long-term goal of founding food startups focused on food security. Outside of his academic work, Sherman enjoys grilling for friends, exploring new places, and engaging in meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics.
Current Honorees
Omowunmi Odeyomi
Field of Study: Ph.D. in Agribusiness, Applied Economics & Agriscience Education, North Carolina A&T State University
Omowunmi Odeyomi is a second-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Agribusiness, Applied Economics & Agriscience Education at North Carolina A&T State University. Her passion for agriculture was sparked at a young age by visits to her grandfather's commercial farm in Southwestern Nigeria. This early exposure led her to pursue a career in Agricultural Economics, earning both her undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Ibadan. Omowunmi’s research focuses on risk management, particularly the risk attitudes and coping behaviors of small-scale farmers in Southwestern Nigeria. She has contributed to the field with peer-reviewed journals and book chapters and is currently researching the adaptation and resilience of underserved farming populations to agricultural risks, with a special emphasis on crop insurance. Omowunmi is also actively involved in the AAEA Teaching Academy and works as a data analyst in the NCA&T Cooperative Extension Department.
Sandesh Chapagain
Field of Study: Master’s in Food Microbiology, University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Chika Anotaenwere, an animal sciences scholar, is dedicated to advancing agricultural techniques and sustainable livestock nutrition. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Agriculture in Pasture and Range Management in 2018. Motivated by a passion for research and innovation, she earned a master's degree in pasture production and utilization in 2022 at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Chika's research focuses on enhancing silage quality to improve the nutritional value of animal feed, aligning with global needs for sustainable agriculture. Her commitment extends to mitigating the greenhouse footprint through innovative approaches to animal nutrition, showcasing a deep concern for the environment. Pursuing a Ph.D. with a concentration in sustainable animal production and health, Chika's multidisciplinary approach and insatiable curiosity position her to make significant contributions to the field, leaving a lasting impact on animal sciences and sustainable agriculture. Her journey exemplifies perseverance, academic passion, and a commitment to positive change, promising far-reaching effects in both livestock and human domains through innovative and sustainable agricultural practices.
Emmanuel Kuufire
Field of Study: Master’s in Veterinary Science, Tuskegee University
Dipak Khanal is a graduate research assistant in the Plant Biotechnology and Genomics Laboratory at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB). Raised in a small farming family in Nepal, he observed the challenges posed by environmental stress and climate change in Nepalese agriculture, negatively affecting production costs and profitability. Motivated to support farmers and address agricultural challenges, Dipak earned a Bachelor's in Agriculture Science from Tribhuvan University. Currently pursuing a Master's in Agricultural Regulations at UAPB, he anticipates graduating in December 2023. Dipak’s master's thesis research investigates the impact of high nighttime temperature on plant physiology and genetics and aims to understand climate-induced stress on Arkansas rice cultivars. Dipak strives to identify genes influencing starch biosynthesis for enhanced rice thermotolerance, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
Juliana Noi
Field of Study: Master’s in Sustainable Agriculture, Lincoln University of Missouri
Juliana Noi's commitment to agriculture and food science is rooted in her upbringing in a family that valued sustainability. She is dedicated to helping businesses and farmers produce healthier and more economically viable products through sustainable practices. Juliana has extensive experience in the agroforestry, veterinary, and exporting industries, with a particular focus on educating smallholder farmers and students on sustainable agricultural practices. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Sustainable Agriculture at Lincoln University of Missouri, where her research investigates the impact of a goat silvopasture system on the forest ecosystem.
Kwadwo Antwi-Wiafe
Field of Study: MS in Agricultural and Environmental Systems, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Kwadwo Antwi-Wiafe is an MS student in Agricultural and Environmental Systems at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, specializing in International Trade. His current research, conducted in collaboration with the USDA-FAS, examines the impact of the African Growth and Opportunity Act on agricultural exports using pairwise gravity modeling. Kwadwo holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. His long-term goal is to become an economics professor and policy analyst, with a focus on advocating for poverty reduction, financial inclusion, and addressing inequality.
Peter Owolabi
Field of Study: Graduate Student in Sustainable Agriculture, Lincoln University of Missouri
Peter Owolabi is a graduate student at Lincoln University of Missouri, pursuing a degree in Sustainable Agriculture. His research focuses on climate-smart agricultural practices and their adoption in response to climate change. As a 2024 Fellow of the Trellis Fund Fellowship Program, Peter conducted research on increasing youth participation in sustainable farming in Nigeria. His work aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications, contributing to the development of a more resilient and sustainable food system.
Olabisi Tolulope Somefun
Field of Study: Ph.D. in Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Olabisi Tolulope Somefun is a first-year Ph.D. student in Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She has a strong background in agronomy and sustainable cropping systems, with over six years of post-graduate research experience. Olabisi’s current Ph.D. research focuses on using soil moisture sensors, plant sensors, and crop models for real-time irrigation scheduling in tomatoes. Her goal is to integrate precision technologies into irrigation practices to optimize water usage, thereby meeting future agronomic and environmental needs.
Matthew Olaniyi Akindoyin
Field of Study: MSc in Integrated Animal Health Systems, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Matthew Olaniyi Akindoyin is an MSc candidate in Integrated Animal Health Systems at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. With a solid foundation in animal sciences, Matthew’s research is focused on assessing milk quality using advanced biotechnological techniques and investigating natural antimicrobials for combating Staphylococcus aureus in bovine mastitis. He has been recognized with awards such as the Rising Graduate Scholar Award and the HBCU Entrepreneurship Research Fellowship. Matthew is committed to developing sustainable solutions for global food security and animal welfare, and he aims to make a significant impact in the field of animal sciences.
Yvette Mukunzi
Field of Study: Master’s in Food Science and Biotechnology, Delaware State University
Yvette Mukunzi is a graduate student at Delaware State University, pursuing a Master’s degree in Food Science and Biotechnology. Originally from Rwanda, Yvette developed a passion for food science, recognizing the critical role that safe and nutritious food plays in human life. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnologies, specializing in Food Biotechnology, from the Institute of Applied Sciences (INES-Ruhengeri) in Rwanda, where her research focused on the nutritional comparison of common beans and pigeon peas, a legume often overlooked in Rwanda. Her professional experience includes roles as a Tutorial Assistant and Food Processing Laboratory Analyst at INES-Ruhengeri, where she gained extensive hands-on experience. Yvette’s current research at Delaware State University focuses on developing food patterns of Indigenous African foods consumed in the U.S. to improve diet quality and promote healthy food choices among African-born immigrants. Her work involves advanced nutrient analysis using techniques like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Driven by her commitment to addressing health disparities, Yvette aims to become a leading food science professor, conducting innovative research in food chemistry and nutrition, and developing robust food security measures globally. She is also actively involved in community outreach, working to enhance nutrition education and promote healthy eating habits among African-born immigrant communities in the U.S.
Sara Gutierrez Diaz
Field of Study: Master’s in Environmental Science and Ph.D. in Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, Tuskegee University
Sara Gutierrez Diaz is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Environmental Science and a Ph.D. in Agricultural & Environmental Sciences at Tuskegee University. With a strong academic foundation in civil engineering from Universidad del Norte in Colombia, Sara’s research focuses on environmental sustainability, water resources, and environmental justice. Her current projects address critical issues such as the economic impacts of drought on agriculture for underserved communities and the role of micro-credentials as tools for professional advancement, particularly for minority groups. Sara is deeply committed to addressing environmental justice, with a specific interest in hydraulic modeling, water quality, and the application of geospatial and information systems to solve environmental challenges. Her work aims to create tools that can assess and mitigate the vulnerability of communities, particularly in the Black Belt area, to the adverse effects of climate change, ensuring that these communities have the resources and knowledge needed to enhance their resilience and participation in policy-making processes.
Current Mentors
Christopher Bacon
Associate Professor, Dept. of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Santa Clara University
Collins Bugingo, PhD
PSA Northwest Regional Extension Associate, Food Science Cornell AgriTech, Cornell University
Debra Tropp
Retired Expert, US Department of Agriculture - Agriculture Marketing Services, Principal, Debra Tropp Consulting
Dr. Douglas Jackson-Smith
Kellogg Endowed Chair, Agroecological Management; Director, Agroecological Management Program; Professor; School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University
Jo Saint-George, Esq.
Founder & Chair, HBCU College of Plant-Based Lifestyle Medicine
Isaac “Ike” Sohn Leslie, PhD
Extension Assistant Professor of Community Development, Faculty, Food Systems Graduate Program Collaborator, Institute for Agroecology; University of Vermont
Kareem M. Usher, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, College of Engineering / Austin E. Knowlton School of Architecture City and Regional Planning Section; Ohio State University
Megan Govindan
Teaching Associate Professor, MPH, MS, RDN, LDN, School of Agriculture and Food - Human Nutrition & Foods; West Virginia University
Michelle Miller
Associate Director, Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems; University of Wisconsin
Polly Ericksen
Director, Food Systems Research Center (FSRC); University of Vermont
Sarah Zoubek
Associate Director, World Food Policy Center; Duke University
Sofia Sanchez
Extension Specialist - CES - Family and Consumer Sciences, CES - Family and Consumer Sciences; Auburn University
Alumni Fellows Mentors
2023/24 Fellows
Asamoah Zadok
Brianna Smith
Ebony Thornton
Obianuju Egiebor
Success Amobi-Ndubusi Okafor
William Gaspard Jr.
2022/23 Fellows
Alyson Whitted
Asya Montgomery
Bernard Iwegbu
Christopher Iweriebor
Kavaughn Prout
Manoj Paudel
Miriam Hagan
Tanisha Felton
Alumni Honorees
2023/24 Honorees
Adewumi Adegboye
Chika Anotaenwere
Dipak Khanal
Elijah Agene
Joel Alabi
Kelvin Ofori
Oludotun Adelusi
Philip Junior Yeboah
Rejoice Nyarku
Sola Ikuejamoye-Omotore
Yesutor Soku
2022/23 Honorees
Chinedu Ahuchaogu
Kingsley Bentum
Lydia Olagunju
Micah Talbert