AgHope Leadership Academy: A Week of Leadership and Growth at Alcorn State University

The first week of the AgHope Leadership Academy has wrapped up with resounding success for 5th through 8th grade students. Students participated in dormitory and campus life for a week on the historic campus of Alcorn State University. AGHope Leadership Academy attracted students not only from Mississippi, but also from Illinois, Louisiana, Georgia, Tennessee and Texas, all eager to participate in this agricultural leadership experience. Throughout this week, students honed their leadership skills, learning to respect each other and confidently speak in front of the group, both as individuals and as part of a team.

AgHope Leadership Academy, 5th - 8th Graders enjoy first week of camp.

The academy offered a rich array of activities, including a STEAM Day, Model Farm Tour, captivating drone demonstrations, the BizKid Program where kids were introduced to entrepreneurship and USDA NRCS Day where students were introduced to various careers in agriculture. Students also enjoyed a movie night, outdoor games, and other fun-filled activities.

AgHope Leadership Academy students participate in drone demonstration.

Reflecting on the week, Anita Milson shared, "The students were beyond excellent. Their creativity and originality exceeded our expectations. Watching them grow and develop new skills, from public speaking to team collaboration, was truly inspiring. The USDA NRCS Careers in Agriculture and Model Farm Tour segments were two of the most highlighted parts of the camp. Students engaged with Mississippi USDA NRCS, Mr. Tyree Harrington, State Urban Conservationist and Alcorn State University Agriculture Extension and Animal Science Colleges. These young leaders demonstrated not only an eagerness to learn more but a keen understanding of the tasks at hand by participating in all of the hands on activities AgHope Leadership Academy offered. We're excited to see how they continue to grow as they apply these skills in their future endeavors.

AgHope Leadership Academy 5th - 8th graders enjoy Model Farm Tour

The AgHope Leadership Academy has proven to be a transformational experience for the students preparing them for future educational and professional endeavors. As this first group leaves with new skills and memories, the academy eagerly anticipates welcoming the next group of 9th to 12th graders next week for another week of exploration and growth. 

MentorScope Community Outreach is committed to connecting underserved farmers, students and communities to essential resources and education through a network of agriculture conservation and management experts. We help farmers understand and implement climate-smart practices and efficient farm management techniques, and connect them with beneficial USDA programs. Additionally, our AgHope Leadership Academy offers transformational experiences for young students, fostering leadership development and career exploration in agriculture. Through these efforts, MentorScope Community Outreach continues the quest to garner both current and future generations in achieving sustainable and successful communities. See More Pics.

AgHope Leadership Academy students enjoy rollerskating.