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

Sandesh Chapagain is a veterinary graduate from Agriculture and Forestry University, Nepal, whose interest in zoonotic diseases led him to focus on food microbiology. Specifically, he is concerned with the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans through food, a critical public health issue. Sandesh is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Food Microbiology at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where his research centers on food-borne zoonotic pathogens in poultry products. Through the CISC HBCU Fellowship Program, he aims to deepen his expertise in this field and expand his professional network in food safety and microbiology.

Emmanuel Kuufire

Field of Study: Master’s in Veterinary Science, Tuskegee University

Emmanuel Kuufire is a graduate student at the Center for Food Animal Health, Food Safety and Defense, Tuskegee University, where he is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Veterinary Science. His research focuses on in-silico detection of specific genetic markers in various foodborne pathogens, which can be utilized in various diagnostic assays, thereby contributing to the advancement of food safety measures and improving public health outcomes. 

He holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana. During his time at the veterinary school, Emmanuel was recognized as the overall best graduating student, receiving both the Dean's Prize and  Dr. Andy Quarcoopome Award. In addition to his academic pursuits, Emmanuel has actively participated in several collaborative projects that aim to enhance understanding of microbial-related issues in food systems, which further underscores his commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in veterinary science and food safety. Notably, worked at the Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Control Unit, where he engaged in research and control efforts for trypanosomiasis in both humans and animals populations. This provided him with valuable international experience across the tsetse-infested regions of Africa, including Zimbabwe, Kenya, Burkina Faso, and Senegal, through various training programs and research collaborations facilitated by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

He is enthusiastic about continuous learning and self-improvement, aiming to make significant contributions to the sustainable development of global health through food safety-related research.

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

Assistant Professor, Oregon State University

Ebony Woodruff

Director, Agricultural Law Institute for Underrepresented and Underserved Communities, Southern University Law Center

Emily Reno

Founder, Mezclada & Host, The Transcendent Farmer Podcast

Kareem M. Usher, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, College of Engineering / Austin E. Knowlton School of Architecture City and Regional Planning Section; Ohio State University

Kim Niewolny

Professor, Director, Center for Food Systems and Community Transformation, Virginia Tech

Kristin Reynolds

Chair and Associate Professor, Food Studies, Director, Food and Social Justice Action Research Lab, The New School

Lindsey Lunsford

Assistant Professor for Food Systems Education and Policy, Tuskegee 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

Raymon Shange

Director, Carver Integrative Sustainability Center, 1890 Extension Administrator, Tuskegee University Cooperative Extension
Associate Dean, College of Agriculture, Environment, and Nutrition Sciences, Tuskegee University

Whitney Fung Uy

Research Scientist, Center for Nutrition and Health Impact

Alumni Fellows

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