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Stacey McCullough
Director-CPED
Phone: 501-671-2078
Email: smccullough@uada.edu
University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
2301 S. University Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72204
The Intern Leadership Edition: Final Presentations
The 2025 Experiential Scholars Program concluded with a strong showing of final presentations that reflected weeks of applied learning, critical thinking, and direct engagement with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture extension mission.
Closing Out a Summer
Each summer, the Experiential Scholars Program offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges facing Arkansas communities. Interns are placed with extension professionals across the state to gain experience in agriculture, natural resources, community development, health and education. Over the course of nine weeks, they engage directly with stakeholders, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop leadership and communication skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
The program is designed not only to introduce students to the diverse career pathways within the Cooperative Extension Service, but also to equip them with the tools and mentorship needed to take ownership of a project from start to finish. Each intern is tasked with identifying a need, developing a plan, conducting research or outreach, and presenting their results. These final presentations are a key part of the experience, providing interns with an opportunity to showcase their work, reflect on their learning, and communicate the value of their contributions.
This year’s cohort included students working in all three of the program’s focus areas: Water and Soil Conservation, Health and Nutrition, and Community and Economic Development. From soil research and workforce development to professional readiness and affordable housing, each project reflected the unique interests and strengths of the interns, as well as the broader goals of the Division of Agriculture.
Want to see the interns' work in action? View their final presentations and learn more about each project by watching the recorded sessions below. Each video showcases the research, insights, and impact made by this year’s Experiential Scholars.
Intern Presentations
Chapman focused on soil health in the Delta region, specifically studying how poultry litter impacts water stable aggregates in loamy soils. Her project combines research and lab work to contribute data that may help improve long-term soil sustainability for Arkansas farmers.
Nelson and Smith collaborated on a project aimed at defining and promoting professionalism in the workplace. They created educational resources and practical tools that can support future interns and early-career professionals as they transition into professional environments.
Easley explored workforce development strategies for rural Arkansas communities. His project highlighted career access barriers and suggested actionable ways Extension could help strengthen employment pipelines through local partnerships and resource development.
Russell created an interactive digital StoryMap to showcase the work being done on Arkansas Discovery Farms. His project translated technical research into a user-friendly format to help stakeholders, and the public better understand on-farm conservation practices and outcomes.
Keith-Powell conducted field-based research to evaluate how different grazing intensities and fertilization treatments affect forage yield. Her findings may offer producers more effective strategies for managing forage quality and improving pasture sustainability.
Mabry and Hudson examined housing challenges in underserved communities and proposed approaches for improving access to affordable, safe housing. Their research focused on community input and highlighted potential areas for future programming and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Experiential Scholars have set a high bar with their dedication, creativity, and commitment to serving Arkansas communities. Their projects reflect the meaningful impact that hands-on learning and strong mentorship can have in preparing the next generation of Extension professionals.
A special thank you goes out to each intern for your hard work, professionalism, and contributions throughout the summer. Your efforts made a lasting difference and brought fresh perspectives to Extension work across the state.
If you know of an undergraduate student interested in making a difference while gaining real-world experience, stay tuned. Applications for the 2026 Experiential Scholars Program will open soon.