South carolina state university (SC state) provides non-biased, science-based information to citizens across the state on critical I ssues such as agribusiness and community development; agrisystems…

South carolina state university (SC state) provides non-biased, science-based information to citizens across the state on critical I ssues such as agribusiness and community development; agrisystems productivity and profitability; environmental and natural resources conservation; family and youth development, and food safety, security, and nutrition. Nine competitive funded grants were approved and implemented. During the fiscal year, seven research projects were conducted. Release time dollars including fringe benefits total $548 ,812.14, which was a savings for the university. The grants dealt with food insecurity, food safety, rural business, small farms, drones and AI, high tunnel demonstrations and agdiscovery summer enrichment programs. The extension program served 221,779 direct contacts through 571 workshops and events. There were 320 in person sessions conducted across the program areas, while 5 hybrid sessions were taught, and 7 virtual sessions were implemented. SC state planned and hosted its first AG and land-grant celebration. The event emphasized the impact of SC state's AG programs and brought awareness to the institution's land-grant mission of improving the quality of life for individuals, families and communities through research, teaching, and outreach. IT provided a platform for the university to showcase its accomplishments and educate south carolinians on the institution's impact of providing relevant services and programs that empower communities. There were student-only events, AG alumni activities, a farmers' forum, and an invitation only partners dinner. Press releases increased and social media followers and interactions increased 50% on all platforms.