Progress 08/01/21 to 07/31/24

Outputs
Target Audience:Over the grant period, California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) and Hartnell College (HC) served a diverse audience of undergraduate students, focusing on Hispanic/Latine, first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students in agricultural-related fields. Efforts targeted Agricultural Plant and Soil Science (AGPS) majors at CSUMB and students in HC's Agriculture Plant Science associate-to-transfer degree and Agricultural Production, Food Safety, and Sustainable Crop Management certificate programs. During the grant, enrollment in the AGPS program increased from 22 students in 2021 to over 130 in 2024--a growth of more than 400%. To date, 72 students have graduated from the program, with over 80% securing permanent jobs in their fields before or shortly after graduation. The grant also heightened awareness of the AGPS transfer program from HC to CSUMB, with Hartnell students currently comprising over 43% of AGPS transfers. This partnership has served as a model for developing articulation agreements with other community colleges, such as Cabrillo College, and for creating new FANH majors, including a mechatronics engineering program modeled after the AGPS framework. In addition to supporting students, the program engaged with various community stakeholders, including high school and community college students, their families, educators, and industry representatives across the Tri-County region of Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. Outreach efforts, particularly in agricultural and rural areas like the Salinas and Pajaro Valleys, aimed to create pathways to higher education and careers in agriculture, fostering regional economic development and enhancing social mobility. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Over the course of the grant, the project provided extensive training and professional development opportunities, significantly enhancing the skills, readiness, and opportunities for students and faculty at CSUMB and Hartnell College (HC). Student Training and Development.CURE Participation:Over 400 students were trained in molecular biology and soil microbiology research techniques through Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs), gaining hands-on exposure to research methods and scientific confidence and thinking. STEM Pedagogical Research: Two students were trained in STEM pedagogical assessment and research, contributing to evaluating student learning outcomes. Internships and Apprenticeships: Thirty-seven students participated in interdisciplinary agricultural research and apprenticeship internships, exploring topics like plant pathology, soil microbiology, soil science, crop sales, post-harvest processing, and field production. Mentorship was provided by CSUMB and USDA ARS scientists as well as industry professionals. Professional Development: All students received personalized guidance on internship professionalism, maintaining scientific notebooks, and professional communication. Training included poster design, presentation skills, and resume preparation. Several students won awards for best poster presentations, showcasing their advanced gained research and communication skills. Career Fair Preparation and Participation: Pre-event workshops trained over 80 students in resume writing, elevator pitches, and job research, with over 160 students attending career fairs. These events strengthened their networking abilities and understanding of job opportunities. Independent Research: Nine students received one-on-one mentoring through independent research, gaining expertise in microbial biology, ecology, and quantitative data analysis. They also completed technical, biosafety, and research ethics training. Graduate and Professional Development: Students received individualized guidance on graduate school and fellowship applications, including crafting their statements of purpose and letters of intent. Seven students presented research findings at national conferences like Plant Health and SACNAS NDiSTEM, participating in valuable networking sessions. Faculty Training and Development.CURE Faculty Fellowship: Four early-career faculty, including tenure-track and lecturers, participated in the CSUMB CURE Faculty Fellowship, developing skills to integrate authentic research into agricultural courses at CSUMB and HC. This training expanded faculty capacity to implement high-impact, equitable teaching practices, fostering more engaging and inclusive learning environments.Professional Development and Networking: PD and Co-PDs Faculty were supported to attend professional society meetings and networking sessions, further building their professional connections. Career Fair Organization: PD Dundore-Arias received mentorship on organizing and executing career and internship fairs in collaboration with USDA OPPE and the CSUMB Career Development Office. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The outcomes of our initiatives have been effectively communicated through diverse outreach and engagement activities. Key efforts included: Student Recruitment and Outreach: Over 1,000 high school and community college students, along with family members, educators, and community members, were engaged through college tours, open houses, school visits, workshops, demonstrations, course presentations, guest lectures, and tabling events. During these interactions, the PI highlighted the AGPS major, career opportunities in agriculture, experiential learning, campus resources, and student success programs. Information about CUREs, internships, and career fairs was disseminated through college courses, partnerships with CSUMB entities like the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center (UROC), TRiO, and the Transfer Student Success Center, as well as through high school FFA clubs and community organizations like the Coastal FARMS Leadership Student chapter. Events such as College Day visits, Salinas Valley Latinx Engineering Day, and the Latinx Heritage Festival further expanded reach. These efforts were supported by printed and digital materials, e-newsletters, and targeted emails to CSUMB and Hartnell College students. Faculty and Professional Development: Program overviews, CURE instructional materials, and assessment strategies were shared through on-campus presentations, national conference presentations (NARRU, Plant Health, SACNAS NDiSTEM), and invited seminars at institutions such as UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, and North Carolina State University. Faculty participation in the CSUMB CURE Fellow Faculty Program enhanced their ability to implement high-impact, equitable teaching practices. Internship and Career Fair Promotion: Internship and career fair opportunities were widely publicized to students, industry professionals, and USDA employers through e-newsletters, emails, campus announcements, and public radio spots. These events facilitated meaningful connections, expanding awareness of agricultural career pathways. The program's holistic approach to training and professional development empowered students and faculty, fostering a pipeline of skilled professionals and educators ready to contribute to FANH sciences and beyond. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? #1 Output:4 scaffolded CUREs were implemented across multiple AGPS courses at CSUMB and Hartnell College (HC). These modules were adapted to different formats due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They focused on principles of molecular biology, soil microbiology, and plant-microbe interactions, emphasizing applications in agricultural production and pest management. The majority of student participants identified as Hispanic/Latine and first-generation students with no prior exposure to academic or professional research opportunities.Outcomes:CURE courses achieved a 100% pass rate, demonstrating that integrating these activities did not negatively impact student performance. At CSUMB, enrollment in CURE courses doubled during the grant period and attracted students from non-agricultural majors. Over 400 students from both institutions participated CURE modules, exceeding the originally proposed projection by 63%.Impact:The growth in enrollment highlights the demand for hands-on research experiences and underscores the program's success in engaging students through experiential learning. Output:CURE modules evaluations demonstrated significant impacts on students' academic and professional development. Feedback from CURE surveys and interviews revealed enhanced scientific identity, improved communication and collaboration skills, and increased career motivation.Outcomes:Students reported a deeper understanding of molecular and ecological factors mediating plant-microbe interactions and expressed a stronger interest in pursuing research and related careers, indicating the effectiveness of these modules in fostering engagement with scientific fields. CUREs boosted students' confidence, refined technical skills, and expanded career aspirations. One CURE revealed a transformative shift in students' self-perception--many transitioned from viewing themselves as entry level technical workers to envisioning themselves as future Agbiotech entrepreneurs or CEOs.Impact:CURE modules not only enhanced students' research capabilities but also empowered them to take ownership of their professional trajectories, equipping them with confidence, skills, and a mindset needed to excel in influential roles within the agricultural and scientific industries. Output:Two CSUMB STEM Teacher Pathways students participated in guided research internships under the mentorship of the Co-PD.Outcomes:Interns contributed to evaluate student learning within CURE modules, helping to develop and analyze formative and cumulative assessment strategies. Their work provided valuable insights and data, which were shared with course faculty to drive pedagogical improvements and enhance the effectiveness of CUREs.Impact:This experience strengthened the students' research and assessment skills and prepared them to integrate evidence-based teaching practices into their future careers as educators, while also providing faculty with valuable, timely feedback to refine and improve their courses. Outputs:Four junior faculty members--three from CSUMB and the Co-PD from HC--participated in the CSUMB CURE Faculty Fellowship Program, which provides training in curriculum development and evaluation strategies in alignment with CURE principles.Outcomes:Faculty received guidance on adapting research ideas for hybrid or virtual delivery and training in using articulated rubrics to assess learning outcomes, provide targeted feedback, and promote equity. These strategies enhanced the alignment of teaching practices with the program's goals of fostering inclusivity and engagement in undergraduate research experiences.Impacts:Participation in the fellowship program equipped faculty with innovative pedagogical tools, leading to the successful integration of CUREs into their courses, and enriching student learning experiences. #2 Outputs:We facilitated 37 internships, exceeding the anticipated number by over 200%, supported by cost savings and reallocations during a non-cost extension. CSUMB students engaged in research projects spanning plant pathology, soil microbiology, and soil science under faculty and USDA scientist mentorship, while HC students gained practical experience in agri-food companies.Outcomes:Over 80% of students had prior experience in labor-intensive agricultural jobs, reflecting the program's focus on non-traditional backgrounds. All participants received training in research techniques, communication, mentoring, and professional development. Students gained skills in plant cultivation, pest monitoring, soil testing, and collaborative research. CSUMB students presented posters at local and national conferences, with 4 earning best poster awards.Impacts:100% participants reported positive career impacts, with several transitioning from technical roles to leadership aspirations. Of CSUMB students, 33% pursued master's programs, 59% secured private sector jobs, and 8% joined USDA NRCS. Over 60% of HC students transferred or began transferring to four-year institutions. Students reflected on increased confidence and career clarity, with one noting: "The internship convinced me to not shy away from great opportunities but instead step up, show others who I am, and prove I can learn." Another stated: "The internship made me realize I want to contribute solutions to agriculture issues like pests and diseases, reducing pesticide use." #3 Outputs:Organized the Cultivating Talent and Harvesting Leaders Career and Internship Fair, which attracted 100 and 160 attendees and 30 and 40 employers, in 2022 and 2023 respectively, including USDA agencies, private agri-food companies, and local extension agencies. Students from diverse majors across HSI academic institutions and local high schools participated. Pre-event workshops provided guidance on resume preparation, elevator pitches, and reviewing job openings.Outcomes:Students connected with employers, explored job and internship opportunities, and enhanced career readiness. Focus groups highlighted the value of pre-fair preparation, networking opportunities, and career exploration. Many students followed up with employers, submitted applications, and participated in interviews. Feedback noted challenges such as overcrowded tables, limited access to companies, and insufficient non-summer job opportunities, informing future event improvements.Impacts:The fairs created an inclusive platform for students to engage with potential employers. One student shared, "Going to the fair helped me get a better sense of the job opportunities I'm interested in and make one-on-one connections with employers." Informal tracking revealed several students secured internships and full-time positions introduced at the event. The fair's success led to its inclusion in the campus-wide Career Week alongside other themed fairs. #4 Outputs:This objective investigated the ecological and molecular mechanisms behind disease-suppressive soils to enhance soil health and plant productivity. 40 Streptomyces isolates from a CURE-generated collection were characterized for their antagonistic activity against plant pathogens and antibiotic inhibitory activity.Outcomes:Analyses identified patterns of inhibitory interactions, genetic diversity, and phenotypic differences across field production histories. 9 students participated in these experiments as part of independent research or capstone projects, with 7 presenting findings at scientific conferences. All students completed biosafety and research training.Impacts:60% of participating students were accepted into prestigious graduate programs, while the rest secured research roles in ag-biotech industry. The research advanced understanding of microbial interactions in soils, informing innovative approaches to manage soilborne crop diseases. 2 manuscripts co-authored by undergraduate students are in preparation, and preliminary data generated through this work enabled the PD to secure additional funding

Publications

Progress 08/01/22 to 07/31/23

Outputs
Target Audience:California State University, Monterey Bay target audience served in this reporting period included undergraduate students, especially first-generation, low-income, underrepresented students in FANH fields, including Biology and Agricultural Plant and Soil Science (AGPS) majors. Students served in this reporting period included undergraduate students participating in CURE modules in AGPS courses, independent research experiences, and summer research internships. During the 2022- 2023 academic year, there were 89 students enrolled in the AGPS program, and of those, 65% were Hispanic and over 67% were First-generation college students, and 40% low-income. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project has provided an array of training and professional development activities for undergraduate students. Over 165 students (121 CSUMB and 44 Hartnell College) were trained in research techniques related to molecular biology and soil microbiology data through CUREs. Four students were directly mentored and trained (one-on-one) in soil microbiology and molecular research techniques through independent research experiences. They learned microbial analysis techniques in the lab, and also gained experience with data entry, data management, and data analysis. All of them completed lab safety training, human subjects research training, and research ethics training. Seven of those students participated in a national scientific conference (Plant Health 2023 and SACNAS NDiSTEM) and participated in several networking activities for undergraduate student attendees. All twelve students participating in the summer internship also completed various professional development workshops including Academic Resume & CV, Statement of Purpose, Professional Email Communication, and Poster Design and Presentation. They also participated in the CSUMB Annual Summer Symposium and Plant Health 2023, and two of them were awarded as one of the best poster presentations. An early career Community College faculty (Co-PI Rustad) participated in the CSUMB UROC CURE Faculty Fellowship in Summer 2022 and received training in how to develop instructional materials, curricular activities, and evaluation strategies for the integration of authentic research activities into her agricultural-related courses at Hartnell College. An early career CSU faculty (PI Dundore-Arias) was able to work with the regional USDA OPPE and the CSUMB Career Development Office and was mentored on how to organize and execute a career fair and internship fair. PI Dundore-Arias provided information about CUREs and research opportunities at PUI & HSI institutions through various talks at CSUMB, a national conference (Plant Health 2023 and SACNAS NDiSTEM), and invited Departmental Seminars (UMass Boston). How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?At CSUMB, the PI has shared an overview of the project with incoming AGPS students during onboarding sessions for enrolled students, including the Science Student Success Welcome event, Otter Admitted Day, and Open Campus Day. Additionally, the information has also been shared during invited lecture presentations with students from local community colleges (Hartnell College and Cabrillo College), and with high school students (Rancho Cielo) and students from the Coastal FARMS Leadership Student chapter during recruitment events including College Day visits and community events. Program overview and CURE instructional and assessment materials were shared through presentations given on campus as part of the CURE Fellow Faculty Program, conference presentations and through invited Departmental Seminars. Research opportunities were also shared in AGPS and BIO classes as well as through the CSUMB partners including the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center (UROC), TRiO program and Transfer Student Success Center during their own recruitment and orientation events. Internship and Career Fair information was shared through e-newsletters and emails sent out to CSUMB students in College of Science and to Hartnell College students, as well as industry and USDA employers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In the next year / reporting period, we will repeat some of the same activities as during Y2 of the grant to continue mentoring students and achieving our research objective. Specifically, we will: - Offer molecular biology and soil microbiology CURE modules through at least 2 courses at CSUMB and 2 at Hartnell College. - Distribute the Ag-research experience survey to participating students, and complete data analysis on the CURE evaluations. This will also include recruiting and providing support to two students from the STEM Teacher Pathways, interested in teaching Agricultural Science to participate in the assessment of student learning through CURE modules. - Conduct exit and focus group interviews with senior AGPS students. - Organize an in-person Cultivating Talent and Harvesting Leaders Career and Internship Fair for CSUMB and Hartnell College students, as well as students from local high schools and other regional HSIs. We will also work on recruiting additional regional employers to participate in the event. - We will continue to participate in recruitment events with local Community Colleges and High Schools from the Salinas and Pajaro Valleys, and community partners, and establish collaborations with local FFA chapters.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? In our work towards Objective 1, we did the following: We offered four previously developed (year 1, #1 and #2) and new (year 2, #3 and #4) CURE modules. The first module focused on the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology and second module focusing on pathogen-antagonistic soil bacteria The third CURE modulefocused on investigating the composition and function of lettuce phyllosphere microbiomes. Specifically, during the course of the semester, students investigated yeasts isolated from the foliage of lettuce plants collected from the Salinas Valley. Students applied skills learned in CURE #1 conducted a phenotypic and molecular characterization of their own isolates, and developed hypotheses on their potential functional roles on lettuce health and growth. The module focused onenhancing the students' scientific identity and interest in agricultural biotechnology, and to collaborate with students in other courses. Specifically, students majoring in agricultural plant and soil science enrolled in BIO 306 developed an ag-biotech business idea, serving as the science experts, responsible for conducting the science research background, and coming up with a general description of the biotechnology approach and its application. On the other hand, students in the partnering courses, served as the visual design and business consultants and helped the BIO 306 students to come up with their product branding and business plan. By the end of the semester, students prepared a modified business plan that integrated and summarized the scientific merit, financial worth, and commercial potential of the idea. In the final class presentation, they pitched the projects to their peers, as well as a panel of 3-special guests, a scientist working at a private biotech company, a local ag-entrepreneur, and the course instructor. Modules were revised at the end of the semester addressing pitfalls and making the necessary modifications for the next academic year. Student evaluations were collected and will be summarized, analyzed, and shared in the next reporting cycle. To further gauge the effect of improved student-learning experiences, we developed and distributed among participating students a survey to assess the impact of CURE and/or research internship/independent experience on scientific identity and career interests. Findings will be shared in the next reporting cycle. Key outcomes. Generally, participating students reported an increased understanding of genetic/cellular/molecular principles, improved research experiences and skills, improved communication and collaborative skills as well as scientific identity, and greater motivation to pursue careers involving scientific research. Another positive outcome of CURE 4 was to see the change in the students' perspectives while identifying themselves as CEOs in their business plans, even though the assignment did not explicitly require/ask for it, compared with earlier in the semester, they only perceived themselves as working in technical jobs for other entrepreneurs. In our work towards Objective 2, we did the following: We recruited a total of 12 students (8 CSUMB and 4 Hartnell College) to participate in hands-on experience in interdisciplinary laboratory and field-based agricultural research internships. At CSUMB students were recruited from the Agricultural Plant and Soil Science (AGPS) major. Those students worked on a variety of agricultural research projects under the guidance and mentorship of CSUMB AGPS faculty, USDA ARS and USDA APHIS scientists, and industry partners, and worked on a variety of research projects ranging from plant pathology, agronomy, soil science, soil microbiology, and pest monitoring. At Hartnell College students were recruited from the agricultural plant science and agribusiness majors. Those students worked at private agri-food companies in positions expanding from sales and manufacturing to field production roles. All these students completed the required training and workshops related to research techniques, communication skills, and mentoring skills, as well as professional development workshops. Of the participating CSUMB students, 100% of them identified as first-generation college students and as members of racial/ethnic underrepresented groups in STEM including Hispanic/Latinx (70%), Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (20%), and members of the LGBTQ community (20%). Moreover, 50% of the participating students worked in the previous year in labor-intensive field crop jobs, including manually planting, cultivating, and harvesting vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. Key outcomes. We were able to recruit students from historically underrepresented groups in STEM and FANH. Informal reports and interviews indicated that students had a positive experience, interacted with faculty and USDA scientists, strengthened and practiced their communication skills, and broadened their career perspectives. 100%of participating students highlighted the impact of this internship on their career trajectory, and motivation to pursue graduate degrees or BS degrees. In our work towards Objective 3, we did the following: We organized the Cultivating Talent and Harvesting Leaders Career and Internship Fair, a multi-institution agricultural-centered career and internship fair for students in the Tri-County region. The fair was first offered in October 2022 with 30 employers and over 100 students, while in February 2023 the fair brought together 40 employers and over 160 students. Employers included various USDA agencies, agri-food private companies, and district and county-wide extension agencies. Participating students included various majors. Additional participants include students from local community colleges, such as Hartnell College and Cabrillo College. A survey was distributed among participants and the provided feedback will be incorporated into the organization of future versions of the event. Key outcomes.Ag-centered career and internship fair wasintegrated into the annual CSUMB Career Week program. Initial post-event survey analysis revealed that students had a positive experience and valued the direct interaction with recruiters. Of the AGPS student graduates, 21% of the students obtained jobs they learned about and/or applied for during the Cultivating Talent and Harvesting Leaders fair. Moreover, in Spring 2023 it was the first time when we had AGPS former graduates attending the fair as recruiters. In our work towards Objective 4, we did the following: Genetic diversity of the previously isolated soilborne Streptomyces was assessed by sequencing. Streptomyces isolates were obtained from soils collected from 3 locations on the Central Coast of California and obtained via dilution, selective media, and morphological analysis through CUREs. DNA was extracted, amplified, and sequenced.In-vitro pathogen inhibitory activity of these isolates against locally relevant Pythium pathogens (P. aphanidermatum and two P. uncinulatum) of leafy green crops was evaluated with the goal of determining the relationship between genetic diversity and pathogen-inhibitory capacities. Moreover, the in vitro Streptomyces antibiotic inhibitory interactions among 27 Streptomyces isolatesfor a total of 702 pairwise interactions. Here, the frequency of inhibitory interactions was examined and patterns of inhibition between sympatric and allopatric isolates were compared, as well as the differences in specific inhibitory phenotypes across field production histories. Key outcomes. All students completed the corresponding biosafety and disciplinary training. Three students presented their research at conferences. Participating students received guidance and one was accepted into graduate programs in FANH discipline.

Publications

• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Imperial, Alex, and Dundore-Arias JP. Development of an Inoculation Technique for Rapid Evaluation of Pythium Wilt of Lettuce. SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference (Oct 2022), San Juan, PR (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Regalado-Diaz, Cecilia, Jasso, K, Hasegawa, D, and Dundore-Arias JP. Greater than the sum of its parts: Characterization of the coinfection of lettuce with Pythium Wilt and INSV in the Salinas Valley, California State University, Monterey Bay Summer Symposium (August 2023), Seaside, CA (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Vasquez, Elise, Kortman, S, Prescott, K, and Haffa, A. Longitudinal Study Comparing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from a Field Under Different Climate Smart Soil Management Practices During a Broccoli Crop in Salinas, CA. California State University, Monterey Bay Summer Symposium (August 2023), Seaside, CA (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Villacana, Jose, Simmons, G, and Henderson. Effects of Lambda-Cyhalothrin at Different Coverages on LBAM Eggs. California State University, Monterey Bay Summer Symposium (August 2023), Seaside, CA (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Mejia, Luis, and Horton, K. Soil Health & Aggregate Monitoring. California State University, Monterey Bay Summer Symposium (August 2023), Seaside, CA (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Villafria, Nathaniel, JP Dundore-Arias1 Mejia, Luis, and Horton, K. Production of Pythium uncinulatum Inoculum for Investigating Pythium Wilt of Lettuce. California State University, Monterey Bay Summer Symposium (August 2023), Seaside, CA (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Salinas-Gonzalez, Nicole, LeBlanc, N, and Gebben Hernandez, S.nas and Patriot. California State University, Monterey Bay Summer Symposium (August 2023), Seaside, CA (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Broderick, Patrick, Locke-Paddon, E, Hickey,H, Camelo, V, Hasegawa, D, Dundore-Arias, JP. Molecular Identification of Pythium Species Associated with Pythium Wilt of Lettuce on the Central Coast of California. Plant Health 2023 Annual Meeting (August 2023), Denver, CO (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zetko, Brittany, Raimondo, M, Hickey, H, and Dundore-Arias, JP. Examining Inhibitory Interactions Among Soilborne Streptomyces from the Central Coast of California. Plant Health 2023 Annual Meeting (August 2023), Denver, CO (Poster)
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Locke-Paddon, Emily, Raimondo, M, Hickey, H, and Dundore-Arias, JP. Exploring the genetic diversity of soilborne Streptomyces spp. from the Central Coast of California. Plant Health 2023 Annual Meeting (August 2023), Denver, CO (Poster)

Progress 08/01/21 to 07/31/22

Outputs
Target Audience:California State University, Monterey Bay target audience served in this reporting period included undergraduate students, especially first-generation, low-income, underrepresented students in FANH fields, including Biology and Agricultural Plant and Soil Science (AGPS) majors. Students served in this reporting period included undergraduate students participating in CURE modules inAGPS courses, independent research experiences, and summer research internships.During the 2021- 2022 academic year, there were 40 students enrolled in the AGPS program, and of those, 80% were Hispanic and over 85% were First-generation college students. Of the students participating in the independent research experiences (n=4), 100% of them were female andfirst-generation, and of those 50% of them were Hispanic, 25% were Asian American, and 25% were White. Students who participated in the summer internship (n=4), 100% werefirst-generation, 75% were female and 25% were male, and of those 1 student was African American, 1 Hispanic, and 2 were White. At Hartnell College, there are two target audiences: 1- Students in the Agricultural Production (AgP) Associates program; and 2- student in thesummer undergraduate research program.The vast majority of students in the AgP programwere Hispanic andFirst-generation, including thestudent who participated in the summer internship. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project has provided an array of training and professional development activities for undergraduate students. Over 60 students (60 CSUMB and 22 Hartnell College)were trained in research techniques related to molecular biology and soil microbiology data throughCUREs.Four students were directly mentored and trained (one-on-one) in soil microbiology and molecular research techniques through independent research experiences. Theylearnedmicrobial analysis techniques in the lab, and also gained experience with data entry, data management, and data analysis. All of themcompleted lab safety training, human subjects research training, and research ethics training. One of those students participated in a national professional conference for plant pathologists (Plant Health 2022) and participated in several networking activities for undergraduate student attendees. Four students participating in the summer internship were also trainedin research techniques, communication skills, and mentoring skills. These students gain skills in distinct project-specific areas, including insect vector biology related to Western Flower Thrips ecology and host preference, conventional disease management of Spinach Damping-off through seed treatment, microbial antagonism seeking biocontrol strategies to control Pythium wilt of lettuce using indigenous soilbacteria, and agricultural greenhouse emissions associated with strawberry production including anaerobic soil disinfestation. They also completed various professional development workshops including Academic Resume & CV, Statement of Purpose, Professional Email Communication, and Poster Design and Presentation. They also participated in theCSUMB 9th Annual Summer Symposium, and one of them was awarded as one of the best poster presentations. An early career Community Collegefaculty (Co-PI Rustad) participated in the CSUMB UROC CUREFaculty Fellowship in Summer 2022 and received training in how todevelop instructional materials, curricular activities, and evaluation strategies for the integration of authentic research activities into heragricultural-related courses at Hartnell College. An early career CSU faculty (PI Dundore-Arias) was able to work with the regionalUSDA OPPE and the CSUMBCareer Development Office and was mentored on how to organize and execute a career fair and internship fair. PI Dundore-Arias provided information about CUREs and research opportunities at PUI & HSI institutions throughvarious talks at CSUMB, anational conference (NARRU), and through invited Departmental Seminars (UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, and North Carolina State University). How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?At CSUMB, the PI has shared anoverview of the project with incoming AGPS students during onboarding sessions for enrolled students, including the Science Student Success Welcome event, Otter Admitted Day, and Open Campus Day. Additionally, the information has also been shared during invited lecture presentationswith students from local community colleges (Hartnell Collegeand Cabrillo College), and with high school students (Rancho Cielo) and students from the Coastal FARMS Leadership Student chapterduring recruitment events including College Day visits and community events (Salinas Valley Latinx Engineering Day,Latinx Heritage Festival of theCity of Salinas 2021). Program overview and CURE instructional and assessment materials were shared through presentations given on campus as part of the CURE Fellow Faculty Program, a poster presentation at a national conference (NARRU) and through invited Departmental Seminars (UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, and North Carolina State University). Research opportunities were also shared in AGPS and BIO classes as well as through the CSUMB partners including theUndergraduate Research Opportunity Center (UROC), TRiO program and Transfer Student Success Center during their own recruitment and orientation events. Internship and Career Fair information was shared through e-newsletters and emails sent out to CSUMB students in College of Scienceand to Hartnell College students, as well as industry and USDA employers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In the next year / reporting period, we will repeat the same activities as during Y1 of the grant to continue mentoring students and achieving our research objective. Specifically, we will: Molecular biology and soil microbiologyCURE modules will be offered fully in person through at least 2 courses at CSUMB and 2 at Hartnell College. Distribute the Ag-research experience survey to participating students, and complete data analysis on the CURE evaluations. This will also include recruiting and provide support totwo students from the STEM Teacher Pathways, interested in teaching Agricultural Science to participate in the assessment of student learning through CURE modules. Continue to provide one-to-one mentorship to four undergraduate students through independent studies. This will include the genetic sequencing and identification of indigenous plant-beneficial organisms and complete their phenotypic characterization. Additionally, students will be mentored and supported to share research findings in conferences and symposia. Provide support and arrange placements for 4 students during summer internships, including opportunities to work with CSUMB faculty, UCCE farm advisors, USDA researchers, and/or private industry, and mentorand supportto share research findings in the CSUMB summer research symposia. Organize an in-personCultivating Talent and Harvesting Leaders Career and Internship Fair for CSUMB and Hartnell College students, as well as students from local high schools and other regional HSIs. We will also work on recruiting additional regional employers to participate in the event.We will continue partnering with regionalUSDA OPPE and attendtheHarvesting the Leaders of Tomorrow Career & Internship Fair at Fresno State University to further connect with regional partners including the organizers. We will continue to participate in recruitment events with local Community Colleges and High Schools from the Salinas and Pajaro Valleys, and community partners, and establish collaborations with local FFA chapters.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? In our work towards Objective1, we did the following: We developed 2 CURE modules which were modified to be offered through online instruction modality due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.The first modulefocused onthe Central Dogma of Molecular Biology. This module consisted of 3 lectures, videos, lab activities, and assessments. A brief summary of specific topics coveredincluded: Structure and function of DNA and RNA, Complementary Nitrogenous Base Pairing, Structure and function of chromosomes, DNA Replication, Transcription, Translation and the use of the genetic code in protein synthesis, Types of DNA mutations (i.e. Base-pair substitution, Base-pair insertion/deletion, inversion), as well as principles of DNA extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction, and Gel Electrophoresis. This module was offered at both CSUMB andHartnell College. At CSUMB the module was offered through theupper division BIO 306, Biotechnology for Agriculture course (Junior Fall 2021 enrollment of 34 students), while at Hartnell College it was incorporated in theABT-135, Food Microbiology course (Fall 2021 enrollment of 20 students). A second CURE modulefocusing on pathogen-antagonistic soil bacteria was developed and offered in the upper division AGPS 470 Integrated Pest Management course (SeniorSpring 2022enrollment of 11 students). In this module,students participated in a series of 3 lab modules in which theycollectedtheir own soil samples, quantifiedthe density of soil Streptomyces, isolated and purified isolates, and testedtheir antibiotic antagonistic profiles. A collection of 27 uniqueisolates was generated and shared with students working on their independent research studies who further characterized them based on pathogen inhibitory capacities and also by using PCR and sequencing. Modules were revised at the end of the semester addressing pitfalls and making the necessary modifications for the next academic year. Student evaluations were collected and will be summarized, analyzed, and shared in the next reporting cycle. To further gauge the effect ofimproved student-learning experiences, we developed a survey to assess the impact of CURE and/or research internship/independent experience on scientific identity and career interests which was distributed among participating students and will findings will be shared in the next reporting cycle. In our work towards Objective2, we did the following: We recruited a total of 5 students (4 CSUMB and 1 Hartnell College) to participate in hands-on experience in interdisciplinary laboratory and field-based agricultural research internships. CSUMB AGPS major student Cole Mefford completed his internship at CSUMB under the supervision of PI Dundore-Arias and a partnering scientist from Syngenta (Dr. Jeannette Rapicavoli) and conducted a research project titledManaging Damping-off of Spinach via Fungicide Seed Treatments. Through this project, Cole developed skills in growing plants, measuring seed health and quality,and assessing disease development/control. CSUMB Biology major studentDestiny Henderson-Hudgins worked under the supervision of PI Dundore-Arias andconducted a research project titledPotential Soil Probiotics Exploring the pathogen-inhibitory capacities of soilborne Streptomyces from the Salinas Valley against Pythium spp. In this project, Destiny studied the inhibitory capacities of 18 isolates of soilborne Streptomyces from commercial fields against Pythium species from the Salinas Valley. CSUMB AGPS major student Kiara Gablecompleted her internship under the supervision of PI Dundore-Arias and a partnering USDA ARS scientist Dr. Daniel Hasegawa investigating the ecology of Western Flower Thrips vectors of INSV, and in particular, assessing the thrips density abundance in crops and non-crops INSV hosts.CSUMB Environmental Science, Technology, & Policy major studentElise Vasquez worked under the supervision of CSUMB faculty Dr. Arlene Haffa on a project investigating the agricultural impacts on greenhouse gas emissions and climate change in Monterey County, particularly in association with strawberry production practices such as anaerobic soil disinfestation.Hartnell student Edgar Diaz was placed in a summer internship during summer 2022. He workedat Pisoni Vineyards in Gonzales, CA adn as part of this project Edgar assistedvegetable and vineyard farming operationsconductingsoil quality and fertility testing,estimatingplant spacing for a field production yield associated with different densities, and monitoring fertilizer usage and vineyard water stress. All these students completed the required training and workshops related toresearch techniques, communication skills, and mentoring skills, as well as professional development workshops. In our work towards Objective3, we did the following: We organized an online multi-institution agricultural-centered career and internship fair for students in the Tri-County region. The firstCultivating Talent and Harvesting Leaders Career and Internship Fair was offered virtually on March 17, 2022 and brought together over 80 students from CSUMB and Hartnell College, and 9employers from the agricultural industry including Driscoll's, Dole, Nature Rewards, Scheid Vineyards,UC Davis, UCCE, and USDA agencies, including USDA ARS, NRCS, FSA, RMA, Forest Service, among others. A survey was distributed among participants and the provided feedback will beincorporated into the organization of future versions of the event. In our work towards Objective4, we did the following: A collection of 27 unique Streptomycesisolatesgenerated from CURE moduleswere further characterized in this objective as part of theindependent research studies in which 4 students participated. In Fall 2021 two undergraduate researchers worked on investigating and optimizing research protocols for purifying and culturing Streptomyces isolates, as well as testing antibiotic inhibition against plant pathogenic Pythium species. In Spring 2022, oneundergraduate researcherworked on testing the inhibitory capacities of each of the isolates against the plant pathogens Pythium aphanidermatum and P. uncinulatum, and the other one worked on researching methods for genetic sequencing of each isolate including, culturing methods, DNA extraction, PCR protocols andprimer set up.All students completed the corresponding trainings, and one student, Morgan Raimondo attended the Plant Health 2022 Annual meeting and presented a poster focusing on the characterization ofpathogen-inhibitory soilborne Streptomyces from the Salinas Valley.

Publications

• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Dundore-Arias JP, Slown C, Rustad E. 2021. Future-Ag: Fostering Undergraduate Student Training, Upskilling And Retention Through Interdisciplinary Experiential Learning In Ag-Sciences. NARRU 2021 (Poster presentation, online)