In part three of our land-grant series, we turn to the final pillar of the land-grant mission: Extension. We’re joined by Dr. Annie Hardison-Moody and Dr. Misty Blue-Terry to explore how Extension connects research and teaching directly to communities across North Carolina. Together, they explain what Cooperative Extension is, why it was created, and how it continues to serve as the outreach arm of land-grant universities. We also discuss the distinct historical foundations of NC State and NC A&T State, and how their partnership strengthens impact across the state. Throughout the episode, we highlight how Extension translates research into practical solutions, builds long-term relationships with communities, and addresses modern challenges in agriculture, food systems, and public health. Tune in to learn why Extension remains a vital, people-centered force within the land-grant mission.

Learn more about Dr. Hardison-Moody’s work below:

NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/annie-hardison-moody/

Learn more about Dr. Blue-Terry’s work below:

NC A&T State University Bio Page: https://sswd.center/teams/misty-blue-terry-phd/

Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:

National Archives- Morrill Act (1862): https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/morrill-act

Historical Sketch of NC State University: https://www.lib.ncsu.edu/scrc/university-historical-sketch

NC State Extension: https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/

“Our Blues Make Us Gold” Documentary: https://www.ncat.edu/news/2024/08/our-blues-make-us-gold.php

USDA Cooperative Extension History: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/about-nifa/what-we-do/extension/cooperative-extension-history

NC A&T State University “A Rich History”: https://www.ncat.edu/caes/cooperative-extension/history.php

NC A&T State University “1890 Programs and Initiatives”: https://www.ncat.edu/caes/morrill-act/programs-and-initiatives.php#:~:text=Agriculture%20(NIFA)%20.-,Today%2C%20the%201890s%20Foundation%2C%20the%20%E2%80%9C19%20Strong%2C%E2%80%9D,Food%20and%20Agriculture%20(NIFA).

The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.

Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai

Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

In part two of our land-grant series, Dr. Joseph Donaldson joins us to explore what makes land-grant teaching distinct from other higher education models. From the federal mandate that defines land-grant institutions to the balance of theory and hands-on learning reflected in mottos like “Think and Do,” Dr. Donaldson explains how land-grant programs intentionally prepare students for real-world careers. We discuss how land-grant teaching supports workforce development, strengthens communities, and integrates research and Extension into student learning. Dr. Donaldson shares examples from across the country, reflects on the people-centered nature of land-grant education, and emphasizes how academic programs help students align their interests with meaningful careers in agriculture and food systems. This episode offers a deeper look at how teaching at land-grant universities builds career-ready graduates and sustains the systems that feed, clothe, and support us all.

Learn more about Dr. Donaldson’s work below:

NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/joseph-donaldson/

Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:

Career Pathways Matrix: https://careerpathways.ces.ncsu.edu/career-pathways-matrix/

The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.

Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai

Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

In this episode, we kick off a three-part series exploring the land-grant university system by focusing on the first pillar of its mission: research. We sit down with Dr. Ben Chapman to discuss how research within the land-grant system developed historically and why it plays such an important role in supporting agriculture, food systems, and communities. Dr. Chapman explains what makes land-grant research unique, particularly its strong connection to real-world challenges and its integration with teaching and extension. We also talk about how research stations, field labs, and partnerships with stakeholders help translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions that benefit producers and the public. Throughout the conversation, we highlight the interdisciplinary nature of land-grant research and why collaboration across fields is essential for addressing complex issues. Tune in to learn how research continues to drive innovation and impact within the land-grant mission.

Learn more about Dr. Chapman’s work below:

NC State Bio Page: https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/profile/benjamin-chapman/

Risky or Not Podcast: https://www.riskyornot.co/

Food Safety Talk Podcast: https://www.foodsafetytalk.com/

Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:

NC State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences - Research: https://cals.ncsu.edu/research/

The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.

Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai

Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.