Programs

Statewide Signature Programs

Beyond READY- Workforce Development Program

The Beyond Ready initiative, led by the National 4 H Council, is a nationwide workforce development effort designed to prepare 10 million young people for future careers by 2030. Working alongside programs like the 1890 YEA initiative, it helps bridge the gap between traditional education and the evolving needs of the agricultural workforce. Grounded in the Positive Youth Development framework, the program emphasizes sparks, belonging, supportive adult relationships, and active youth engagement. Its key focus areas include workplace readiness, career exploration through emerging technologies and mentorship, and life skills development. Strategic efforts include strong partnerships with 1890 Land Grant Universities, nationwide program delivery through varied formats, and proven outcomes showing increased leadership and community engagement among participants.

1890 Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture Across America (YEA)

The 1890 Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture Across America (YEA) program is a dynamic national initiative that introduces middle and high school students to high-impact careers in food, agriculture, and STEM. Supported by USDA-NIFA, the program collaborates with the 19 historically Black 1890 Land-Grant Universities to offer hands-on research experiences, mentorship, and leadership development within local communities. Through YEA, students gain access to extensive resources and diverse career pathways. By integrating science and technology with real-world agricultural challenges, the program equips a new generation of diverse leaders to drive innovation in global food systems.

AG Summer Leadership Camp

The Lincoln University Agriculture Summer Leadership Camp are week‑long residential camp that brings university agriculture initiatives to life by exposing elementary, middle and high school students to agriculture careers. Participants engage in hands‑on research with university faculty, build workforce and life skills, explore STEM tools like drones and robotics, and receive mentorship from college students and professionals.