Past Newsletters

ag-newsletter-header-for-the-website.png

We are delighted to introduce the inaugural edition of the Rhodes State College’s Agricultural Technology Department Newsletter, your go-to source for all things happening within our thriving program. As we embark on this exciting journey, our aim is to keep you informed about the latest developments, upcoming events, and shining moments within the Agricultural Technology Department!

The Scoop on What's Happening

Rhodes State College just forged an incredible partnership with the Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District (JAMP). Together, we're applying the power of agricultural practices to diminish weed seed banks and preparing a seedbed for a permanent native prairie installation. Our collaboration draws insights from JAMP's natural resources experts, revealing that a precision approach to farming a weedy plot prior to cultivating a native prairie drastically enhances the thriving of indigenous species. Through prescriptive tillage and applications, we're significantly reducing weed seed banks, particularly those non-native species! Our students are playing a key role in helping identify existing species, aiding in the inventory of weeds and pinpointing potential threats to our crop rotation from insects as we prepare the seedbed for the 2024 planting season.

What's on the Horizon? Mark Your Calendars!

• Ag REACH: Partner with us!! Rhodes State College invites you to partner with us to bring the Ag REACH Program to your students, employees, or community members. This USDA grant-funded project introduces five industry-recognized credentials in agriculture, absolutely free for participants! Thanks to the USDA grant, Rhodes State College covers all costs associated with the program. For more information on how to participate contact Danielle Banks at banks.d@rhodesstate.edu.


• Lead the Change Event: Save the date! On March 8, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until Noon, Rhodes State College will host the 'Lead the Change in Agriculture' event. This event connects students directly with agricultural employers, offering hands-on activities aligned with coursework to provide a real glimpse into the practical aspects of agricultural studies. It's the ultimate exploration of career pathways in agriculture, welcoming juniors and seniors for a day of networking and discovery at Rhodes State College! Register today at https://forms.office.com/r/Y427HKHjAr.

Spotlight Feature

• Woman in Ag: Breaking Boundaries with Shania Lloyd's Ag Tech Journey
Meet Shania Lloyd, an illustrious Rhodes State College graduate making waves as a Sales Customer Support Technician for TRULand Equipment (John Deere) in Van Wert, Ohio. Shania's role involves troubleshooting equipment issues in the field, assisting farmers in embracing cutting-edge technology, and conducting invaluable training sessions to keep them abreast of the latest innovations.

"I chose Rhodes State Ag because it shows a totally different side of agriculture most people don't see," Shania reflects. Her hands-on education at Rhodes, especially the unique AutoTrac training, set her apart in the field. "I value the skills I learned here [Rhodes State College] to this day," she adds.
Despite initial concerns about gender bias, Shania emphasizes, "I have been in this position for 8 months, and not one farmer or co-worker treated me differently because I was a woman, which is amazing!" 

From conducting winter training sessions indoors to assisting in the fields during warmer months, Shania loves the diverse facets of her job. Overcoming her fear of public speaking, Shania encourages aspiring women in agriculture, emphasizing, "Don't let being a woman stop you... work hard and take the bull by the horns!" Shania Lloyd embodies resilience, breaks barriers, and thrives in a field she's genuinely passionate about.

February 2024

Diggin' In

Welcome to AGR 1401 at Rhodes State College, where we delve into the fascinating world of agriculture through soil analysis. Our course offers hands-on exploration for enthusiasts of all levels. Students engage in immersive activities, learning advanced techniques like deciphering soil texture by feel and mastering the hydrometer method. Guided by expert instruction and USDA flow charts, they refine their skills, emerging as adept soil analysts. Through these experiences, students deepen their understanding of soil science and cultivate essential skills for future endeavors in agriculture and environmental stewardship. From unraveling the mysteries hidden beneath the earth’s surface to gaining insight into soil composition dynamics, every moment in AGR 1401 propels students toward a brighter, greener future.

What's on the Horizon

Teacher’s Institute: Exciting News!

Our Summer Institute for integrating agriculture concepts into STEM classrooms is FULL this summer! Don’t fret though, secure your spot for 2025 and 2026 now! Join us for an enriching experience, empowering educators with innovative teaching strategies. Apply early to reserve your place! Don’t miss out! Email uphaus.j@rhodesstate.edu or dyer.l@rhodesstate.edu for more information and to get registered.

Lead the Change Event | March 8, 2024

Students, join us for a thrilling event where you’ll connect directly with agricultural employers, immersing yourself in hands-on activities aligned with your coursework. It’s not just a career fair – it’s a journey of discovery, a chance to explore the vast landscape of agricultural pathways right here at Rhodes State College. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to shape your future in agriculture!

Women in Ag

Meet Taylor Forsythe, a rising star, breaking stereotypes in the world of agriculture. Taylor, currently a precision technician and parts counter employee at Farmers Equipment in Lakeview, shares insights into her unique journey. “I chose the Rhodes State Agriculture program because it allowed me to be able to balance work and college life while still having a short commute. Rhodes also offered a major in Agricultural Technology which was the exact program I was looking for in a college knowing it would likely be hands-on and have a focus on the precision side of agriculture. Their program prepared me for my current job primarily by allowing students to work on the agricultural equipment at the campus and college farm. The hands-on setting of the courses helped me to gain experience in troubleshooting, installing, and operating the equipment, which is often a large part of my job. Being a woman in agriculture has its challenges, but Taylor’s advice is powerful: “Find your passion within agriculture and turn that into your career. Don’t let being a woman deter you from pursuing a career in agriculture.” Taylor’s story reminds us that passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers lead to fulfilling careers. As you explore your path, let Taylor’s journey inspire you to chase your dreams, no matter the stereotypes.

March 2024

Welcome to Rhodes State College's Ag REACH Program, where we're transforming agricultural education in rural communities. Imagine a program that bridges the gap between high schools and local industries, empowering students with practical skills and industry-recognized credentials. That's exactly what Ag REACH is all about!

Over the past two months, Danielle Banks, our USDA Ag REACH Grant Project Director, has been on a mission, visiting six school districts across Ohio. From Miller City-New Cleveland to Indian Lake, 65 students have immersed themselves in the Ohio Agricultural Commodity Tester training module. This hands-on module equips students with the skills they need to thrive on the Ohio Ag Commodity Tester State Licensure Exam. From identifying harmful substances to preforming test weigh calculation, the students are gaining the knowledge of the fundamentals of grain grading.
But Ag REACH is more than just a training program—it's a partnership between educational institutions, local communities and Rhodes State College. By offering free industry-recognized credentials, we're not just preparing students for successful careers; we're strengthening the fabric of our communities. Our commitment to bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application ensures that students are ready to tackle the challenges of the agricultural industry head-on.

Exciting Opportunities Await!

Are you ready to join us in revolutionizing agricultural education? Partner with Rhodes State College to bring the Ag REACH Program to your students, employees, or community members. Thanks to the USDA grant, participation is absolutely free, with Rhodes State College covering all associated costs. Contact Danielle Banks at banks.d@rhodesstate.edu to learn more about this incredible opportunity!

Meet Gail Keck: Writing Her Future in Agriculture

Meet Gail Keck, owner/operator of Catalpa Lane Farms and freelance writer. From managing livestock and overseeing grain marketing to writing articles on farmland preservation and ag legislation, Gail embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship in agriculture. Her journey showcases the endless opportunities available in the agricultural sector, regardless of background or gender. Each day, she farms about 300 acres and has a hog barn where she manages 500 to 800 gilts. She checks the barn twice daily to monitor the gilts' health and ensures the automatic feed, water, ventilation, and heating systems are working properly. Along, with her farm work, she writes for Our Ohio and The Farm and Dairy publications.

As Gail shares her experiences, she highlights the importance of hands-on experience and mentorship in pursuing a career in agriculture. Whether you grew up on a farm or are just starting out, Gail's advice rings true: Agriculture offers plenty of opportunities for those willing to seize them. She ultimately chose a career in Agriculture because it simply fit within the lifestyle she wanted to lead and has given her an endless supply of interesting stories to share with the world through her writing.