Organizers said this year’s symposium will help set the direction for the center’s goals and objectives. It brought together researchers, Extension professionals, students and community members to discuss the challenges of promoting healthy communities. 

Dr. Toombs also visited LSU AgCenter where scientists and faculty presented an update on ongoing programs and research projects funded through NIFA including the Agricultural Sciences Professional Internships in Research and Extension (ASPIRE) program, the Extension COVID Immunization Training and Education (EXCITE) program, low-glycemic rice, sustainable rice production and invasive insects. 

Toombs said her campus visits help connect NIFA as the funding agency to the impact of the work from the investments. “But most importantly, these campus visits allow us to meet and visit with the people who make the programs successful and those who benefit from them,” she said. Top image: Acting NIFA director Dr. Dionne Toombs speaking at Southern University. Image courtesy of Southern University.

TOPIC Food and Nutrition Security, Nutrition and Food Systems

RELATED PROGRAM Extension COVID Immunization Training and Education (EXCITE)

FARM BILL PRIORITY AREAS Food Safety, Nutrition, and Health; Agriculture economics and rural communities

U.S. STATES AND TERRITORIES Louisiana

Original source can be found here.