Source: TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
MASTERS (MENTORING AGRICULTURE STUDENTS THROUGH TRAINING, EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING, AND RESEARCH SKILLS) FOR THE FUTURE AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1023591
Grant No.
2018-70001-32215
Cumulative Award Amt.
$272,999.00
Proposal No.
2020-07678
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Sep 1, 2020
Project End Date
Aug 31, 2024
Grant Year
2020
Program Code
[NLGCA]- Capacity Building Grants for Non Land Grant Colleges of Agriculture
Recipient Organization
TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
LUBBOCK,TX 79409
Performing Department
Plant and Soil Science
Non Technical Summary
In arid and semi-arid regions where water quality and quantity are severely affecting agricultural production, educated and trained workers are needed to serve the agricultural industry. Fewer students are specializing in water management and agriculture, making it difficult to meet the predicted 46% increase in demand for employees in this field by 2026. This is especially true in areas like the West Texas where there is a lower than average rate of people with a bachelor's degree or higher, and even fewer in the fields of agricultural or environmental sciences. Providing underrepresented students with financial support, mentoring, training, internships, and professional development opportunities will increase the amount of skilled employees in the agricultural workforce in the future. By implementing the peer-mentoring concept graduate students in the MASTERS program will not only learn through experiential opportunities, but also through teaching and mentoring undergraduate interns. Furthermore, mentoring and guidance will increase retention, scientific outputs, student confidence, and leadership skills. The overall goal of the MASTERS project is to train and educate underrepresented and first generation graduate and undergraduate students in the field of agriculture with a focus on citrus and water challenges. We will accomplish these goals by establishing cooperative links between Texas Tech and the ARS, educating and training graduate and undergraduate students through internship experiences and research, developing a mentoring system, and broadening student perspectives, educational experiences, and professional development opportunities.
Animal Health Component
50%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
40%
Applied
50%
Developmental
10%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
10202101020100%
Knowledge Area
102 - Soil, Plant, Water, Nutrient Relationships;

Subject Of Investigation
0210 - Water resources;

Field Of Science
1020 - Physiology;
Goals / Objectives
The long-term goal of the MASTERS project is to train underrepresented, post-secondary students at the graduate and undergraduate level in the skills and experiences they will need to compete as leaders and scientists in agriculture. Giving first generation college students and ethnic minorities financial support and experiential learning opportunities is key for increasing representation and building a formidable agricultural workforce. To achieve this goal, we will provide students with state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment, training experiences, and internship training opportunities with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS).Objective 1. Develop a cooperative link between TTU (HSI institution) and the ALARC in Arizona agricultural and water programs that will enhance the success of underrepresented students through internships and professional development opportunities.Objective 2. Educate 2 graduate students and up to 4 undergraduate interns in the field of agriculture with a focus on plant production and water management through experiential research.Objective 3. Enhance educational opportunities and encourage future graduate students by developing a program for M.S. students to mentor undergraduate students in research and other professional skills.Objective 4. Along with broadening student perspectives and educational experiences, we will create networking opportunities for furthering education and potential employment through participation in professional meetings, educational tours, and internships.
Project Methods
This proposed project will fill the gaps in this area by not only forming undergraduate and graduate partnerships in research, but furthering partnerships with research institutions such as the ARS and developing student training that will allow them to be more marketable to future employers. An advisory board composed of agriculture faculty, industry leaders, and research scientist stakeholders will be formed to help guide the project and students during the course of the grant. This advisory board will meet once per year to discuss project goals, objectives, outcomes, and challenges. They will then advise the PIs on how to move forward in the upcoming year to meet goals and best serve students in the program.Additionally, an outside evaluator will be hired to work with the PIs to determine how to most effectively move forward in this project to obtain the outlined goals and outcomes. These evaluators will help in the development of an evaluation plan, assessments, and periodic program reviews. This will help the PIs and students' progress in research goals as well as program goals and increase the likelihood of student success.Using a mentoring approach will not only enhance a graduate student's ability to understand the concepts and underlying science in their research projects but allow them to introduce and inspire undergraduate students with the same interest in agricultural research. This will hopefully lead to higher graduate enrollment of these undergraduate students. PIs will monitor these undergraduate and graduate students for academic achievement, research success, career enhancement, further academic pursuits, and employment post-graduation. This will help in assessment of success for the program and determination of feasibility for future programs of this nature. This approach is feasible and easily quantifiable for project evaluation and future implementation of these practices to recruit and train graduate and undergraduate students in the agricultural sciences.Using the guidance and advice of the external evaluators, the advisory board and stakeholders will allow the PIs to assess success and project progression throughout the life of the project. It will allow for multiple scientific, academic, and industry based viewpoints of research and its relevance to employment, training and scientific progress of students. Students will gain a perspective of what is important to potential employers as well as other scientists when pursuing their research and academic careers. This is the most feasible route for engaging agricultural industry leaders and scientists in student research while maintaining scientific standards and progressing the project goals.Research techniques include analytical quantification of minerals, TDS, contaminants, and other compounds of interest found in agricultural soils and water. While at TTU, students will conduct applied research on plants using available water resources. Students will collect samples and store them for quantification using analytical techniques at the ARS during their internships. Specific methods will vary depending on project goals and research being conducted. Individual projects will be developed by the PIs, graduate students, and student committees. These projects will focus on issues facing the horticulture industry and the broader agricultural community, which could include salinity, water quality/quantity, irrigation uniformity, fertigation, water use efficiency, or alternative water sources. Allowing students to develop projects with the PIs will enable them to take ownership of the projects, show initiative, and increase chances of success.

Progress 09/01/20 to 08/12/24

Outputs
Target Audience:In arid and semi-arid regions where water quality and quantity are severely affecting agricultural production, educated and trained workers are needed to serve the agricultural industry. Fewer students are specializing in water management and agriculture, making it difficult to meet the predicted 46% increase in demand for employees in this field by 2026. This is especially true in areas like the West Texas where there is a lower than average rate of people with a bachelor's degree or higher, and even fewer in the fields of agricultural or environmental sciences. Providing underrepresented students with financial support, mentoring, training, internships, and professional development opportunities will increase the amount of skilled employees in the agricultural workforce in the future. By implementing the peer-mentoring concept graduate students in the MASTERS program will not only learn through experiential opportunities, but also through teaching and mentoring undergraduate interns. Furthermore, mentoring and guidance will increase retention, scientific outputs, student confidence, and leadership skills. The overall goal of the MASTERS project is to train and educate underrepresented and first generation graduate and undergraduate students in the field of agriculture with a focus on citrus and water challenges. We will accomplish these goals by establishing cooperative links between Texas Tech and the ARS, educating and training graduate and undergraduate students through internship experiences and research, developing a mentoring system, and broadening student perspectives, educational experiences, and professional development opportunities. Changes/Problems:As mentioned in previous reports, COVID 19 caused significant delays in sample analysis and the off site learning/training opportunity due to restrictions at the USDA ALARC. This was resolved this summer when students trained at the ALARC in sample analysis. The original project proposal included advisory board review of student research proposals during Year 1. COVID also impacted meetings of the advisory board due to increased schedule loads and resulting conflicts. Due to delays with the establishment and engagement of the advisory board, this review of student research happened retroactively and individually in Year 4. One board member also left their position. Student progress continued and both students have met their goals. Other delays were faced by another student, Emily Stamm, due to personal medical issues and equipment failure in her research. She was able to defend in spring 2023 but her graduation was delayed to August 2023. Due internal TTU issues, the intern stipends were not able to be awarded until Spring 2023. To ensure students were compensated for work, they were hired as hourly employees in the interim. One student was not able to receive her stipend because she left the internship early due to schedule conflicts. We hired another intern in Spring 2023 to aid students in follow up research and hired several more to continue the mentoring and provide students with additional training. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? • Graduate students were expected to spend several weeks at an on-site internship with the USDA-ARS ALARC in Maricopa, AZ. However, USDA-ARS ALARC was shut down to visitors until summer of 2022, leading to delays in internships. When the center was again open to visitors, graduate students spent one week on-site for training, to learn to use the UPLC/MS, and to learn more about chemical analysis and research. • While at TTU, graduate students learned to use the ICP, microplate reader, sample evaporator, centrifuge, and other laboratory and hydroponic equipment. • Undergraduate mentees have been trained in the use of analytical equipment, sample extraction, methods, data analysis, and other research methods and processes. • A total of 16 presentations at 9 conferences were given. • Graduate and undergraduate students participated in career development opportunities and peer and colleague networking by attending scientific presentations and networking at these functions. • Students also attended the ASHS career sessions at these conferences. • Students were also provided with opportunities to attend workshops and development training at TTU, special problems courses to enhance writing and scientific communication, and specialized, hands-on training in various analytical techniques. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The MASTERS project has communicated project results to stakeholders and the general public primarily through presentations and poster sessions. •Students have presented their research at local, regional and national conferences. Students have also presented their research at departmental seminars and poster competitions. Graduate students have submitted or will submit articles that will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals. • A presentation on the MASTERS program and final results from the project was presented at the ASHS annual meetings in August 2023. • Departmental seminars for the students theses results were presented in Fall 2022 and Spring 2023. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1. Develop a cooperative link between TTU (as the Hispanic-Serving Institution) and the USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Research Center (ALARC) in Arizona agricultural and water programs that will enhance the success of underrepresented students through internships and professional development opportunities. • In the previous project years, the MASTERS project successfully completed all four stated activities in the checklist that comprise Objective 1 (100%). Objective 2. Educate 2 graduate students and up to 4 undergraduate interns in the field of agriculture with a focus on plant production and water management through experiential research. Objective 2a. 2 students have defended their theses and activities were 100% completed. The MASTERS project proposed to recruit and train two first-generation or ethnic minority graduate students in order to support the development of a diverse and trained agricultural workforce. The project encountered challenges to graduate student recruitment, including timing and eligibility of applicants. Recruitment occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic and in January rather than in the fall, when most students seek positions. These obstacles may have reduced the overall number of applicants, as the project struggled to attract qualified graduate student candidates. Four candidates applied, but two were ineligible due to international student status or did not meet other program requirements. The remaining two graduate student applicants met the program requirements and were selected by the PI. While neither graduate student met the proposed qualifications of being underrepresented due to first-generation or ethnic minority status, both students were female and non-traditional in that they did not come from an agricultural background. One student's background was in math, while the other's was in biology. 2b. - The MASTERS project has fulfilled the planned activities for Objective 2b. Graduate students developed their research projects, completed them, and PIs/partners had input in their research objectives. One student has submitted a manuscript on her research and another is preparing to submit a manuscript, which is projected to be completed and submitted before August 31, 2024. 2c. - The project has completed all five activities (100%) aligned with Objective 2c. Students were delayed in completing the training as planned due to COVID restrictions as all USDA facilities, but did spend 1 week on-site in year 3 where they received hands-on training. The on-site internships at ALARC helped strengthen students' education and research experience by providing training on equipment not otherwise available and the opportunity to conduct research with Dr. Williams, an expert in the field of soil chemistry. 2d. - Both activities (100%) related to Objective 2d have been completed. Both students wrote their theses and one graduated in Dec 2022 and the other graduated in Aug 2023. They both successfully defended prior to their graduation. 2e. Activities have been completed 100%. Students have completed surveys. While 2 undergraduate students who were only briefly employed are not responding to contact attempts, other undergraduate students have completed surveys and been more involved in the process of training and research. Self-assessments have also been completed and students have seen their success and progress. Analytical skills and writing skills are among the skills most recognized by the students. Appreciation has been gained for the agricultural industry, as 4 students in the program will pursue careers in agriculture, one will pursue nutrition/food science, and one is still studying but interested in pursuing an integrated engineering/agriculture course of study. Additionally, we have trained and engaged a total of 8 undergraduate students 4 of which were recruited in later stages of the grant. These students were mentored and trained by other graduate students in the lab, but gained experience and interest in pursuing agriculture careers. Four undergraduates have graduated, one is working as an arborist, one is working in agriculture extension, and two are starting graduate degrees with the PI. Objective 3. Enhance educational opportunities and encourage future graduate students by developing a program for graduate (M.S.) students to mentor undergraduate students in research and other professional skills. • The MASTERS program has achieved 10 of 10 activities (100%) outlined in Objective 3. 3a. - A total of 8 undergraduates were trained during the 4 years of the grant. Early on, struggles were had with retention and recruiting of the first 2 interns. The graduate students learned valuable lessons regarding supervision and selection of interns, and the PI provided more hands-on support for the graduates/undergraduates in subsequent years. The remaining 6 interns have done well in learning lab skills and the structure has been more successful. There were also issues regarding stipend disbursement which was resolved in year 3. The PI had to supplement pay for interns during this time, to ensure the students received proper compensation for their work. One undergraduate went above and beyond the intended internship and conducted 2 independent research projects that has resulted in 2 manuscripts, one published and one in review. She is now hired as an extension agent and will start her position in Sept 2024. Internship and course enrollment was complicated by degree requirements and only 2 interns were able to enroll in internship hours. 3b. - Graduate students have provided mentorship to undergraduate interns. Undergraduate mentees were trained to use equipment, perform sample extractions, and other analytical techniques. Graduate students were given feedback on mentoring skills and as the grant period progressed, became more adept at training and communicating with undergraduates. Undergraduates felt that the graduate mentoring experience was less intimidating and more welcoming than PI led mentoring and allowed them to feel more comfortable making mistakes and learning. Overall they felt it was a positive experience. Objective 4. Along with broadening student perspectives and educational experiences, the project will create networking opportunities for furthering education and potential employment through participation in professional meetings, educational tours, and internships. • Objective 4 consists of three activities, all of which have been completed (100%). 4a. - Travel to professional meetings to network, present research, and gain perspective on the agricultural industry • 16 total presentations were given at a total of 9 conferences/events. Students were able to network and establish relationships with other scientists. This resulted in one masters student starting a Ph.D. at Auburn University in Fall 2023. Other interns and students were able to receive valuable feedback on their careers, resumes, and research projects that will greatly impact them in the future. 4b. External evaluators reviewed the project, provided materials to maximize outcomes, and provided a final, summative report. Advisory board establishment was more challenging. While the board was formed, it took longer than anticipated due to COVID-related delays. The project was not able to hold any meetings with the full advisory board due to scheduling challenges, and one advisory board member left in the third year of the project and could not be replaced. Meetings with advisory board members were held in Year 4 to obtain feedback, but were held individually, leading to a lack of group discussion and reflection. Individual meetings likely provided less robust feedback than could have been obtained through full advisory board meetings. The PI was advised to use other data collection instruments such as surveys to collect feedback with less time burdens on the board members.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Poster presentation)
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2024 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. 2024 Uptake, partitioning, and accumulation of high and low rates of carbamazepine in hydroponically grown lettuce. (In progress)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. Texas Tech University Undergraduate Research Conference. Lubbock, TX. March 28-April 1, 2022
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. Southern Region American Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. New Orleans, LA. February 10-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. New Orleans, LA. February 10-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Effects of Se on growth and physiochemical properties in hydroponically produced Indian Mustard. Southern Region ASHS, New Orleans, LA. February 11-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Williams, C. Coldren, C. and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. Lone Star Horticultural Forum. College Station, TX. January 10-12, 2022. (3rd place M.S. oral competition winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Influence of Se supplementation on Indian mustard grown in a hydroponic system. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-12, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-12, 2022. (1st place B.S. oral competition winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Simpson, C.R. and Williams, C.F. Masters: Mentoring Agriculture Students through Training, Experiential Learning, and Research Skills for the Future Agricultural Workforce. ASHS Annual Conference. Orlando, FL. July 31-August 4, 2023. Oral presentation
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson, C. Analysis of Trichoderma Sp. and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as Biofertilizers for Black Summer Pac Choi (Brassica rapa var. Chinensis) Produced in Deep-Water and NFT Hydroponic Systems. Annual American Society of Horticultural Sciences Conference. Orlando, FL. July 31- August 4, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson, C. Evaluating Trichoderma sp. and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as biofertilizers for Black Summer Pac Choi (Brassica rapa var. Chinensis) produced in Deep-Water and NFT Hydroponic Systems. Texas Tech Undergraduate Research Conference. Lubbock, TX. April 11-14, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2024 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson, C. Trichoderma sp. and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as biofertilizers for hydroponically produced Black Summer Pac Choi. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. Grapevine, TX. January 7, 2024.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: York, Savannah C. The Influence of Selenium on: Selenium Uptake, Salt Stress, and Fluoxetine Uptake in Hydroponically Produced Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea cv. Red Giant). 2022. Masters Thesis, Texas Tech University.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Stamm, Emily R. Uptake, Partitioning, and Growth Effects of Carbamazepine Rates on Hydroponic Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). 2023. Masters Thesis, Texas Tech University.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2024 Citation: York, S.C., Siebecker, M.G., Williams, C.F., and Simpson, C.R. 2023. Influence of Selenium and Salt Stress on Plant Growth and Physiology in Hydroponically Produced Indian Mustard. (In review, Frontiers in Plant Science)
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2024 Citation: Plocek, G., Rueda Kunz, D., and Simpson, C. 2024. Impacts of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Trichoderma spp. on Pac Choi (Brassica rapa var. chinensis) grown in different hydroponics systems. (In review, Frontiers in Plant Science)
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Plocek G, Kathi S, Simpson C. 2023. Effects of eustress induced by low concentrations of salinity on broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and purslane (Portulaca oleracea) microgreens. Technology in Horticulture 3:4 doi: 10.48130/TIH-2023-0004
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson, C. The Impacts of Trichoderma sp. and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens on Black Summer Pac Choi (Brassica rapa var. Chinensis) produced in Deep-Water and NFT Hydroponic Systems. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-10, 2023. (1st place B.S. winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Oral presentation)


Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audiences for this reporting period were undergraduates, graduate students, and other scientists. We presented student research on several occasions at state, regional and national meetings with wide audiences from industry leaders to academic colleagues. Positive comments were made ontheir research and students learned more about effective scientific communication and networking. One graduate student graduated in December and the other has completed all requirements and will officially graduate in August before starting her Ph.D. at Auburn University. Changes/Problems:As mentioned in previous reports, COVID 19 caused significant delays in sample analysis and the off site learning/training opportunity due to restrictions at the USDA ALARC. This was resolved this summer when students trained at the ALARC in sample analysis. COVID also impacted meetings of the advisory board due to increased schedule loads and resulting conflicts. One board member also left their position. Student progress continued and both students have met their goals. Other delays were faced by another student, Emily Stamm, due to personal medical issues and equipment failure in her research. She was able to defend in spring 2023 but her graduation was delayed to August 2023. Due internal TTU issues, the intern stipends were not able to be awarded until Spring 2023. To ensure students were compensated for work, they were hired as hourly employees in the interim. One student was not able to receive her stipend because she left the internship early due to schedule conflicts. We hired another intern in Spring 2023 to aid students in follow up research and plan to hire one more in Fall if possible. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Graduate students were expected to spend several weeks at an on-site internship with the USDA-ARS ALARC in Maricopa, AZ. However, USDA-ARS ALARC was shut down to visitors until summer of 2022, leading to delays in internships. When the center was again open to visitors, graduate students spent one week on-site for training, to learn to use the UPLC/MS, and to learn more about chemical analysis and research. While at TTU, graduate students learned to use the ICP, microplate reader, sample evaporator, centrifuge, and other laboratory and hydroponic equipment. Undergraduate mentees have been trained in the use of analytical equipment, sample extraction, methods, data analysis, and other research methods and processes. A total of ~13 presentations at 8 conferences were given/will be given. Graduate and undergraduate students participated in career development opportunities and peer and colleague networking by attending scientific presentations and networking at these functions. Students also attended the ASHS career sessions at these conferences. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The MASTERS project has communicated project results to stakeholders and the general public primarily through presentations and poster sessions. The program has achieved one of two communication and dissemination goals (50.0%) o Students have presented their research in a total of 11 posters and presentations at regional and national conferences. Students have also presented their research at departmental seminars and poster competitions (two additional presentations each for graduate students and undergraduate students). Graduate students are also working on publications that will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals. • A presentation on the MASTERS program and final results from the project will be presented at the ASHS annual meetings in August 2023. A departmental seminar or a virtual presentation/webinar will be scheduled when the department allows. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period we plan on accomplishing the following: Conduct a follow up advisory board meeting to evaluate the outcomes and objectives accomplished. Get feedback from advisory board to determine future improvements and gaps associated with skills and knowledge of students from non-agricultural backgrounds. Disseminate results through presentations or webinars. Enhance networking opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students. Connecting graduate and undergraduate students for research and mentorship continuation. Finish manuscripts and publish them in scientific journals. Evaluate evaluation and exit surveys to improve upon program. Conduct follow up surveys to see how students are doing post graduation. Maintaining partnerships and collaborations between institutions.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1. Develop a cooperative link between TTU (as the Hispanic-Serving Institution) and the USDA-ARS Arid Land Agricultural Research Center (ALARC) in Arizona agricultural and water programs that will enhance the success of underrepresented students through internships and professional development opportunities. • In the previous project year (Year 2), the MASTERS project successfully completed all four stated activities in the checklist that comprise Objective 1 (100%). The project has maintained these activities during Year 3, including: o Tracking and developing collaborations with four partners as a result of the MASTERS project. ? The current partners involved in the MASTERS project are an institution in government agricultural research (USDA-ARS ALARC) and two institutions of higher education (Texas A&M University - Kingsville and Texas Tech University). The project previously had a partnership with a regional water district (High Plains Water District), which has since ended. NLGCA MASTERS Year 3 Interim Report Page 2 of 7 Office of Educational Innovation and Evaluation July 2023 ? One institutional partner (USDA-ARS ALARC) has participated in student meetings and project development and will continue to do so in Year 4. ? The advisory board was formed in Year 1 of the project and continues to serve in an advisory capacity. Objective 2. Educate 2 graduate students and up to 4 undergraduate interns in the field of agriculture with a focus on plant production and water management through experiential research. • The MASTERS program has made progress toward its objective to educate two graduate students and up to four undergraduate interns in the field of agriculture with a focus on plant production and water management. Evidence of progress shows that 21 of the 22 planned activities (95.5%) were accomplished in Year 3. Objective 2 is anticipated to be completed during the program's fourth and final year. 2a -As of Year 3, the project has completed eight of eight (100%) activities related to Objective 2a. Including recruiting 2 graduate students and 4 undergraduate interns. 2 students have defended their theses. 2b. -The MASTERS project has fulfilled five of six (83.3%) planned activities for Objective 2b by Year 3. Including students enrolled full time, attending committee meetings, submitting proposals and refining objectives of research.Students also completed their research and defended their theses successfully. 2c. -The project has completed all five activities (100%) aligned with Objective 2c by Year 3. Including students completing their on-site internships at the ARS ALARC, training to use analytical equipment, and completing special topics courses. 2d. -Both activities (100%) related to Objective 2d have been completed. Both graduate students will have graduated by August 2023. 2e. -Two of two (100%) activities comprising Objective 2e have been completed or are underway. Graduate students have completed evaluation surveys and undergraduates will complete them in 2023. Objective 3. Enhance educational opportunities and encourage future graduate students by developing a program for graduate (M.S.) students to mentor undergraduate students in research and other professional skills. • The MASTERS program has achieved 10 of 10 activities (100%) outlined in Objective 3 by Year 3. 3a. - Recruiting interested undergraduate students that have the desire and potential to go on to graduate school after graduation for internships with graduate student mentors The mentoring program between graduate students and undergraduate interns continued to progress in Year 3. Four undergraduate student interns/mentees were recruited, interviewed, and hired. Due to degree requirements for course enrollment, only three of the four interns were able to enroll for internship hours. o Project leadership is working with TTU accounting division to disburse intern stipends. o Because of delays with stipends, four undergraduate students have been retained as hourly workers in the lab; these students continue to be instructed by graduate student mentors and other students working in the lab. • Graduate student mentors provided training and mentorship to undergraduate interns. • Undergraduate interns are assisting with research and learning new research skills. Two interns have begun conducting independent research under the guidance and mentorship of a graduate student. 3b. -Graduate students have provided mentorship to undergraduate interns. Graduate students have, in turn, received feedback as needed on research and mentoring as an ongoing process throughout the internship periods. • Undergraduate mentees have been trained in the use of analytical equipment, sample extraction, methods, data analysis, and other research methods and processes. • Undergraduate mentees received advice as well as feedback on their skills and performance. o At least one undergraduate student plans on changing their major to horticulture for their master's program and will begin this program with the MASTERS PI in Summer 2024. Objective 4. Along with broadening student perspectives and educational experiences, the project will create networking opportunities for furthering education and potential employment through participation in professional meetings, educational tours, and internships. • Objective 4 consists of three activities, all of which have been completed by Year 3 (100%). Objective 4a. Travel to professional meetings to network, present research, and gain perspective on the agricultural industry • Graduate students presented their research at several conferences, including the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association (TNLA) Lone Star Hort Forum in January 2022 and the Southern Region American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) meetings in New Orleans in February 2022, as well as ASHS annual meetings in July and August of 2022 and 2023, for a total of seven presentations. o One undergraduate student presented her research at these conferences for a total of sixadditional presentations in 2022 and 2023. This intern took on a side project to apply skills learned and was able to create presentations based on this work. • Graduate students participated in career development opportunities and peer and colleague networking by attending scientific presentations and networking at these functions. Students also attended the ASHS career session at these conferences. o One student will begin a PhD program in Fall 2023 at Auburn University; this student met their future advisor through society meetings attended through the MASTERS program.

Publications

  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: York, Savannah C. The Influence of Selenium on: Selenium Uptake, Salt Stress, and Fluoxetine Uptake in Hydroponically Produced Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea cv. Red Giant). 2022. Masters Thesis, Texas Tech University.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Stamm, Emily R. Uptake, Partitioning, and Growth Effects of Carbamazepine Rates on Hydroponic Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). 2023. Masters Thesis, Texas Tech University.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: York, S.C., Siebecker, M.G., Williams, C.F., and Simpson, C.R. 2023. Influence of Selenium and Salt Stress on Plant Growth and Physiology in Hydroponically Produced Indian Mustard. (In progress)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson, C. The Impacts of Trichoderma sp. and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens on Black Summer Pac Choi (Brassica rapa var. Chinensis) produced in Deep-Water and NFT Hydroponic Systems. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-10, 2023. (1st place B.S. winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Oral presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Poster presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. Texas Tech University Undergraduate Research Conference. Lubbock, TX. March 28-April 1, 2022
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. Southern Region American Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. New Orleans, LA. February 10-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. New Orleans, LA. February 10-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Effects of Se on growth and physiochemical properties in hydroponically produced Indian Mustard. Southern Region ASHS, New Orleans, LA. February 11-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Williams, C. Coldren, C. and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. Lone Star Horticultural Forum. College Station, TX. January 10-12, 2022. (3rd place M.S. oral competition winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Influence of Se supplementation on Indian mustard grown in a hydroponic system. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-12, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-12, 2022. (1st place B.S. oral competition winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Simpson, C.R. and Williams, C.F. Masters: Mentoring Agriculture Students through Training, Experiential Learning, and Research Skills for the Future Agricultural Workforce. ASHS Annual Conference. Orlando, FL. July 31-August 4, 2023. Oral presentation (to be presented)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson, C. Analysis of Trichoderma Sp. and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as Biofertilizers for Black Summer Pac Choi (Brassica rapa var. Chinensis) Produced in Deep-Water and NFT Hydroponic Systems. ASHS Annual Conference. Orlando, FL. July 31-August 4, 2023. Oral presentation (to be presented)


Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audiences for this reporting period were undergraduates, graduate students, and other scientists. We were able to present student research on several occasions at regional and national meetings. We had positive responses to their research and students learned more about effective scientific communication and networking. Changes/Problems:COVID 19 caused significant delays in sample analysis and the off site learning/training opportunity due to restrictions at the USDA ALARC. This was resolved this summer when students trained at the ALARC in sample analysis. COVID also impacted meetings of the advisory board due to increased schedule loads and resulting conflicts. One board member also left their position. We will meet this fall to discuss student progress and any key changes that should be made. Other delays were faced by another student, Emily Stamm, due to personal medical issues and equipment failure in her research. We are continuing her research this fall and she is on track to defend in spring 2023. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Students gained various experiences with analytical equipment in year 2. They have learned how to use the UPLC/MS, ICP-OES, spectrophotometer, hydroponic equipment, and various other laboratory equipment. Their professional development has been enhanced by participating in scientific conferences and they are enrolled in a special problems course this fall titled 'Preparing for Horticultural Professions' that will further aid them in professional development. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated to the scientific community through presentations at the regional and national levels as mentioned in previous sections. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?One of the graduate students will defend her thesis in the fall semester and work on publication of her research. The other will continue working on her research and defend her thesis in the spring semester. The undergraduate interns will continue to be mentored by the graduate students and I am working on preparing them for graduate programs in the future and/or staying in my lab to work as research assistants.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1 -The project collected evidence of progress toward all four stated activities (100%) within the checklist that align with Objective 1. The project has tracked and developed collaborations with three partners because of the project: an institution in government agricultural research, an institution of higher education, and a regional water district. One institutional partner has participated in student meetings and project development and will continue to do so in Year 3. Objective 2 -Evidence of progress shows that nearly three-quarters of the 22 planned activities (72.7%) were accomplished in Year 2. Activities are both underway and planned to support progress toward Objective 3 during the program's third year. • The MASTERS program has made progress toward its objective to educate two graduate students and up to four undergraduate interns in the field of agriculture with a focus on plant production and water management. o The project successfully recruited, interviewed, and selected two underrepresented graduate students from Texas for the graduate program in Plant and Soil Sciences at TTU in previous program years. These students are still in the process of being trained but have nearly completed the research projects that they developed and have completed the greenhouse research stage of these projects. ? One project evaluated selenium uptake and influence on salinity tolerance and fluoxetine uptake and is now at the stage of processing data and analyzing samples. ? The second project determined carbamazepine uptake and partitioning in lettuce and is now at the stage of modeling uptake and processing samples. o Research is nearly complete on both projects; while some follow-up experiments may be necessary, these will be determined later. Advisory board members have not reviewed student research objectives, as COVID-19 complications, one member resigning, and scheduling conflicts delayed this activity. This review will be conducted in fall 2022. o Two undergraduate researchers were recruited, interviewed, and hired in 2022. o Graduate students were expected to spend several weeks at an on-site internship with the ALARC. However, the ALARC was shut down to visitors, leading to the delay of this opportunity. Students were able to go to the ALARCcenter during Summer 2022 for students to analyze samples. As students could not enroll in a "Special Problems" course during the on-site internship, students will take a "Special Problems" course in Fall 2022. The summer internship "Special Problems" course is still under discussion with administrators. o Despite the delay in the internship opportunity at ALARC, graduate students nonetheless gained new knowledge in operating analytical equipment, including sample evaporator, centrifuge, and other laboratory equipment. Students learned to use the UPLC/MS in Summer 2022. o Students have progressed in research and writing of their theses. One student is on track to defend and submit their final thesis and graduate in December 2022, while the other student is on track to do so in Spring 2023. o Graduate students have completed evaluation surveys that assess outcomes, student success, and achievements. Undergraduate interns will complete evaluation surveys in the Fall 2022. Objective 3 -The program has achieved six out of ten activities outlined in Objective 3 (60.0%) though progress toward one activity has been delayed by conflicts in student schedules. o The mentoring program between graduate students and undergraduate interns has progressed in Year 2. Two undergraduate students were hired for the mentored internship. Graduate student mentors provided training and mentoring, while intern mentees assisted with research and learned new research skills. Undergraduate interns had previous summer course obligations preventing them from enrolling in planned summer internship hours. However, interns will investigate whether their degree plans allow this enrollment for the Fall 2022. o While the program successfully recruited and hired two undergraduate interns, because of the delay in on-site internship opportunities at ARS the program has been unable to progress on activities relating to Objective 3b, wherein graduate students bring back their skills and knowledge gained at the ARS internship to, in turn, train undergraduate interns. The graduate students were able to gain experience during the summer 2022 and will continue to share this with undergraduate interns in the fall 2022. Objective 4 -Objective 4 activities relating to student networking and presenting made progress in all 3 objective activities (100%). In Year 2, the project created networking and professional development opportunities that were not available in Year 1 of the project due to COVID-19 impacts. o Graduate students planned a total of three research presentations each in 2022 to support their professional development. Students presented their research at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum in January 2022, as well as the Southern Region ASHS meetings in New Orleans in February 2022. Students alsopresented their research at the ASHS annual meetings in July and August 2022. o Graduate students participated in professional development experiences, including attending scientific presentations and meeting new colleagues. One student has begun interviewing for PhD positions due to the connections made during these experiences. o One undergraduate intern presented her research at three conferences. She took on a side project to apply skills learned and was able to create the presentations presented at these conferences.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. New Orleans, LA. February 10-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Effects of Se on growth and physiochemical properties in hydroponically produced Indian Mustard. Southern Region ASHS, New Orleans, LA. February 11-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Williams, C. Coldren, C. and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. Lone Star Horticultural Forum. College Station, TX. January 10-12, 2022. (3rd place M.S. oral competition winner)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Influence of Se supplementation on Indian mustard grown in a hydroponic system. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-12, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Oral presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Stamm, E., Coldren, C., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. Impacts of Carbamazepine Rates on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) Growth in Hydroponics Systems. American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Poster presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Cognasi, S., Siebecker, M., Williams, C., and Simpson, C. The influence of selenium on salt stress in hydroponically produced Indian mustard (Brassica juncea cv. Red Giant). American Society of Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. Chicago, IL. July 30-Aug 3, 2022 (Oral presentation)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. Texas Tech University Undergraduate Research Conference. Lubbock, TX. March 28-April 1, 2022
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: 6. Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. Southern Region American Horticultural Sciences annual meeting. New Orleans, LA. February 10-13, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Plocek, G. and Simpson C. The Effects of Salinity on Broccoli (Brassica oleracae) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Microgreens. TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. College Station, TX. January 9-12, 2022. (1st place B.S. oral competition winner)


Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21

Outputs
Target Audience:My target audience for this reporting period was potential graduate students to recruit for this project. Since the funds were awarded, several efforts were completed. This includes preparing and distributing a recruitment announcement to colleagues and university agriculture departments nationwide, posting advertisements to professional career pages (ASHS), and answering questions about the positions from several interested students. On the ASHS posting alone, there were 534 job views and 6 applications. I also received 5 or more emails regarding the position from referrals through colleagues. Changes/Problems:COVID-19 restrictions have prevented travel to the ARS in Arizona so far. We hope to have some of these restrictions lifted soon so that analysis and training can occur. Meanwhile, students have been training on ICP, microplate spectroscopy, and various other analytical equipment to ensure skill development. If restrictions continue, we may supplement training with virtual training workshops. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Students are now doing background research under guided mentorship to develop their projects and identify training opportunities that are applicable to their projects. Students meet individually with Dr. Simpson each week and as a group with Dr. Simpson and Dr. Williams every month to report and discuss project progress. At this stage, their degree plans have been approved and their projects have been planned out. Preliminary experiments are underway and their proposals are nearly complete. We expect this to progress as planned. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the next reporting period the students will continue being mentored, research will continue, and interns will be recruited for the mentoring portion. Students will develop presentations on their research and we hope that upcoming conferences can be attended. If there is enough data generated by the fall, we may have them present either at the ASHS Southern Region conference (if COVID restrictions allow) or at one of the other upcoming meetings in the horticultural fields.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1 - A cooperative link has begun with the ARS ALARC, which has so far included recruiting students and mentoring on potential research projects together. Progress towards all activities has been completed within the aligned checklist that was developed by the KSU OEIE. Partners include the ARS government institution, an institution of higher education, and a regional water district. Partners have participated in student meetings and project development. Objective 2 - Two graduate students with non-traditional backgrounds have been recruited, and have started the M.S. program in horticulture at TTU under Dr. Simpson. In addition, half of the planned activities have been accomplished for objective 2. However, due to COVID pandemic restrictions, some have not been completed yet. However, students have learned to use various analytical and scientific equipment (microplate spectrophotometer, hydroponics, ICP). Objective 3 - M.S. students have been told they will need to mentor undergraduate interns. However, the recruitment of interns has not begun yet. The recruitment was limited due to pandemic restrictions, however, an intern is planned to begin work in the fall and another will be recruited during the next semester. Objective 4 - This has not been conducted yet due to students only beginning the program in January and pandemic restrictions. There are several networking and travel opportunities planned for the upcoming year that the students will be encouraged to attend.

Publications