The harvesting potential program is an innovative initiative designed to introduce students to agricultural majors at kentucky state university (kysu)

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Kentucky State University $450,000 under the 1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants program (CFDA 10.216) on January 1, 2026, to develop and deliver the Harvesting Potential Program, an immersive agricultural education initiative designed to introduce students to agricultural majors and cultivate interest in agricultural careers.

The program delivers hands-on learning at Kentucky State University's Harold R. Benson Research Farm and Aquaculture Center, incorporating technology such as drones. In collaboration with Coleman Crest Farm and Greene Landing KY, students receive training in career pathways and entrepreneurship. Curriculum components include mental health and wellness sessions, financial aid and admissions guidance, etiquette training, and self-branding. Participants engage in group projects to develop teamwork skills and connect with industry professionals through networking and professional development activities. Kentucky State University students trained as mentors provide leadership guidance, support, and relatable role models for participants. The program covers all participant meals, housing, and travel expenses to ensure accessibility.

Performance runs through December 31, 2028, with place of performance in Frankfort, Kentucky. The program is designed to address low retention and graduation rates at Kentucky State University and build institutional capacity in agriculture by empowering students as future leaders in the agricultural sector.

This immersive experience aims to cultivate interest in agriculture, equip participants with essential skills and provide exposure to various career pathways. Participants will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes hands-on learning at kysu's harold r. Benson research farm and aquaculture center integrating cutting-edge technology like drones. In collaboration with coleman crest farm and greene landing KY, students receive training in career pathways and entrepreneurship. Holistic development is emphasized through sessions on mental health and wellness financial aid and admissions guidance, etiquette training and self-branding. Participants engage in group projects fostering teamwork and practical application of their learning. Networking and professional development ensure students connect with industry professionals. Meals, housing and travel expenses are covered ensuring accessibility. The program is spearheaded by a dedicated team including a CO-director and data analyst with current kysu students serving as mentors. These mentors who undergo leadership training provide guidance support and inspiration offering relatable role models and firsthand insights into college life and agricultural careers. Given the consistently low retention and graduation rates at kysu and their representation in agriculture the harvesting potential program addresses these challenges by empowering students as inspiring future leaders in agriculture and contributing to the advancement of the agricultural sector.