Community outreach, education, and operations professional with over 25 years of experience in agricultural Extension, youth development, and organizational management. Proven ability to assess community needs, develop educational programs, and cultivate partnerships with diverse stakeholders, enhancing public service delivery in agriculture and food safety.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Agricultural Extension Associate
Alcorn State University Extension Program
, Mississippi
05.2019 - Current
Developed and delivered agricultural education programs for farmers, ranchers, landowners, youth, schools, and community organizations to enhance agricultural knowledge and practices.
Provide research-based information and technical assistance related to agriculture, livestock, farm management, food safety, natural resources, and community development.
Assess the needs of agricultural producers and community members and connect clients with appropriate Extension specialists, agencies, and resources.
Planned and conducted workshops, demonstrations, field days, community meetings, and farm visits to engage community members and promote agricultural best practices.
Collaborate with Extension specialists, university personnel, government agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations, and agricultural associations.
Assisted farmers and landowners in identifying goals and addressing production challenges to improve farm operations and resource utilization.
Provide education on safe food handling, agricultural safety, and responsible farm management practices.
Represent Alcorn State University Extension at public meetings, agricultural events, community programs, and educational activities.
4-H Extension Educator
Alcorn State University Extension Program
, Mississippi
02.2019 - Current
Planned and conducted educational programs for youth in agriculture, science, leadership, health, safety, and personal development.
Coordinated 4-H activities, school programs, workshops, demonstrations, competitions, and community events.
Worked with students, parents, teachers, volunteers, community leaders, and partner organizations.
Developed age-appropriate educational materials and interactive learning activities.
Encouraged youth participation in leadership, teamwork, public speaking, agriculture, and community service.
Maintained program records, participation information, reports, evaluations, and supporting documentation.
Promoted safe, inclusive, and positive learning environments for participating youth.
Guest Services Manager and Food Services Manager
Jackson Zoo
Jackson, Mississippi
01.2003 - 01.2019
Managed daily guest service and food service operations in a high-traffic public facility.
Supervised, trained, and scheduled employees in guest-facing and food service positions to enhance service quality.
Ensured compliance with food safety, sanitation, customer service, and workplace procedures to maintain high operational standards.
Addressed customer concerns and resolved service issues in a professional and timely manner.
Coordinated staffing, inventory, supplies, and cash-handling procedures to optimize daily operational efficiency.
Communicated policies and expectations to employees and provided coaching when performance concerns arose.
Worked with other departments to support efficient operations and a positive visitor experience.
Human Resources Manager
Tyson Foods
Jackson, Mississippi
01.1998 - 01.2003
Facilitated employee recruitment, interviewing, hiring, orientation, training, and onboarding to enhance workforce integration.
Managed human resources activities and provided support to employees and management.
Resolved employee questions, workplace concerns, performance matters, and conflicts to foster a positive work environment.
Assisted supervisors with employee relations, documentation, corrective action, and performance management.
Coordinated employee training programs and ensured compliance with workplace safety and regulatory standards.
Helped communicate company policies, workplace expectations, benefits information, and employment procedures.
Maintained confidential personnel files, employment records, attendance information, and related documentation.
Prepared reports and maintained accurate records in accordance with organizational requirements.
Supported efforts to maintain a professional, productive, and respectful work environment.
Education
Master of Science - Animal Science
Alcorn State University
01-1996
Bachelor of Science - General Agriculture
Alcorn State University
Lorman, MS
01-1995
Skills
Community Outreach and Education
Program Planning and Coordination
Food Safety Education
Agricultural and Environmental Education
Public Speaking and Presentations
Community Needs Assessments
Youth Development and 4-H Programming
Employee Training and Supervision
Human Resources Administration
Customer and Guest Services
Event and Workshop Coordination
Recordkeeping and Report Preparation
Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement
Policy and Procedure Implementation
Conflict Resolution and Problem-Solving
Microsoft Office and Administrative Support
Agricultural education
Food safety compliance
Program support
Training
USDA Food Safety Training, 2026
Food Safety Training through the Alcorn State University Extension Plan of Work
Agricultural Education and Community Outreach Training
Youth Development and 4-H Program Training
Professional And Community Affiliations
Central Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association
Mississippi Beekeepers Association
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated
Additional Qualifications
Extensive experience communicating with diverse populations and community stakeholders.
Strong background in public service, education, management, training, and customer relations.
Experienced in preparing educational materials, professional correspondence, reports, presentations, and program documentation.
Knowledge of agriculture, livestock production, food safety, youth development, and community-based education.
Able to manage multiple programs, deadlines, priorities, and administrative responsibilities.
Committed to improving the health, safety, education, and well-being of Mississippi communities.