Office of Academic & Student Support Services
The College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences (CAHES) has three departments offering degrees that prepare students for a variety of cutting-edge careers. The Department of Agricultural Sciences and Technology offers a B.S. degree with concentrations in Agricultural Sciences, Plant and Animal Sciences, and Pre-veterinary Medicine. The Department of Human Sciences offers a B.S Degree in three Concentrations: Apparel, Merchandising and Textiles, Child Development, Food and Human Nutrition. The third Department is Urban Forestry, Environment and Natural Resources offering three degrees: B.S., M.S., and Ph.D.
CAHES' mission is to promote academic excellence and prepare students to become highly qualified professionals for careers in competitive and global markets. Our students study under highly qualified faculty who expose them to research and encourage involvement in public service. Many students take advantage of summer internships with businesses, state and federal government agencies as part of their education preparation for productive careers. CAHES students are also offered leadership and personal development opportunities through organizations related to their majors and are encouraged to consider study abroad programs. We are pleased that you are visiting our website to learn about our programs.
Please email growjags@sus.edu if you need more information or would like to visit.
Student Testimonials
Leslie Womack, II
Rooted in Tradition, Growing Toward the Future: A Southern University Success Story
For as long as I can remember, Southern University has been more than just a college—it’s been a legacy. Growing up in Baton Rouge, I was surrounded by the culture, the excellence, and the boundless opportunities that Southern provides. My mother, along with countless relatives, walked these same halls before me, setting an example of pride and perseverance. When the time came to choose my own path, there was no question—Southern was where I belonged.
That path led me to Plant and Soil Sciences, a field that feels more like a calling than a major. My connection to the land runs deep—long before I set foot in a university classroom, I was learning from my grandparents in Greensburg and Amite, working the soil and cultivating crops. Agriculture isn’t just something I study; it’s something I live. The ability to nurture the land and understand its science has been ingrained in me since childhood, and Southern has given me the tools to turn that passion into a career.
But my time at Southern has been about more than academics. It has shaped me into a leader. The rigorous coursework has instilled discipline, while the university’s close-knit, supportive environment has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and build meaningful connections. I’ve learned the power of relationships, networking, and confidence—qualities that will serve me just as much as my degree.
None of this would have been possible without the generosity of the CF Industries Foundation Scholarship. This scholarship has given me the freedom to focus on my education without the constant burden of financial stress. Because of this support, I can be a full-time student, fully immersed in learning, rather than worrying about how I will afford to finish my degree. It has made all the difference in my academic journey.
And I plan to make the most of every opportunity. My ultimate goal is to secure a career with the USDA, and Southern has already equipped me with the tools to get there. Through USDA 1890 work shops and specialized training sessions, I’ve gained firsthand knowledge of what it takes to excel in the field. Every experience, every lesson, and every mentorI’ve encountered at Southern has prepared me for the moment when that opportunity arrives.
Southern University isn’t just a place where I’m earning a degree—it’s a launchpad for my future. It’s where I’ve turned passion into purpose, where I’ve grown roots in my field, and where I’m being prepared to change the landscape of agriculture for generations to come.
Chasity Joseph
Cultivating Knowledge, Community, and Self
Before she ever chose a major, Chasity Joseph knew what she stood for—sustainability, community, and staying true to who she is. Born in Galveston, Texas, raised between Louisiana and Alaska, and rooted in the legacy of an HBCU her family has long called home, Chasity’s path to Southern University was woven with history, intention, and heart. She grew up attending summer camps at Southern, often looked after by staff in her grandmother’s department. So when it came time to choose a university, it felt less like a decision—and more like a homecoming.
At first, Chasity wasn’t sure what to study. But one visit to the Agricultural Department—and one conversation with Saturn Douglas—changed everything. That moment led her to Plant and Soil Sciences, where she discovered that agriculture was more than farming—it was a field where science, the environment, identity, and activism all intersected. Her time at Southern has been full of growth, both in the soil and in herself. She co-led the development of a community garden with the Center of Excellence, hosted sustainability workshops, and presented research that bridges science, fine art, and sociology. But Chasity will tell you—growth wasn’t always easy.
She’s wrestled with doubt, imposter syndrome, and moments where her ideas outpaced her technical skills. But she never stopped showing up. And every time she needed encouragement, someone at Southern—staff or peer—showed up for her. That’s the power of the Southern community. Thanks to the Darjean Jones Wines Continuing Education Scholarship and others, Chasity didn’t just survive—she thrived.
“A scholarship means a chance. It means someone chose to invest in me. I wouldn’t have made it this far without that support.”
Now, she’s preparing for the next chapter: applying to Ph.D. programs in Scientific Communication or Fine Art and Ecology, either in the U.S. or abroad. Wherever she lands, her mission remains the same—to sow seeds of sustainability and help communities grow stronger.
Chasity Joseph is not just planting knowledge. She’s cultivating a legacy.
Zion Stanley
First South Farm Credit Scholar Graduates
Zion Stanley’s road to graduation from Southern University was anything but easy. Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, Zion arrived on campus with big dreams—but faced more than his share of challenges along the way.
A student of Agricultural Business and Economics, Zion channeled adversity into ambition. He launched Florida Sunkissed Mangoes™, a culturally rooted produce brand, and founded Coastal Capital & AgriCo™, a company aimed at building agricultural equity and sustainability in underserved communities.
Through it all, one thing remained constant: Zion’s determination to finish what he started. Thanks to the First South Farm Credit Scholarship, Zion didn’t just stay in school—he finished strong.
“Their investment wasn’t just financial—it was a lifeline. It gave me space to breathe, build, and believe I could finish. And I did.”
Zion’s journey is a testament to what happens when talent meets opportunity. With his degree in hand, two businesses under his belt, and a vision to expand nationally, he’s already making waves in food systems and agribusiness.
This isn’t just a graduation story. It’s the launch of a legacy.
Ty Sam
Raised in the Ring. Ready to Run the Yard.
Ty Sam didn’t just show up at Southern University—he earned his place through years of dedication, discipline, and heart. A proud product of the Southern University State Annual Livestock Show, Ty’s journey began in the show ring, where he learned firsthand the values of hard work, leadership, and legacy.
Now, he’s headed to Southern University this fall as a freshman in the College of Agricultural, Human, and Environmental Sciences, bringing with him not only the spirit of a showman but the strength of a scholar and athlete who’s proven himself on every field.
Throughout high school, Ty excelled both academically and athletically—earning honors for English and academic excellence as a member of the ACT 20+ Club and maintaining a spot on the honor roll. On the field and track, he racked up awards including Track & Field MVP, Scholar-Athlete of the Year, and multiple football honors recognizing his leadership, impact, and work ethic.
But his success didn’t happen in isolation. It was community that shaped him, and mentorship that helped guide his steps. We extend deep gratitude to Antonio Harris and Agro Men, whose steadfast support and belief in Ty opened doors and connected him to the Jaguar Nation. They saw a young man destined for greatness—and made sure he had the backing to pursue it.
Thanks to the SU 2025 Livestock Pathways Scholarship, the Agro Men Scholarship, and the Alpha Phi Alpha Beta Iota Lambda & Alpha Enrichment Foundation, Ty begins his college journey on solid ground—supported, prepared, and already aligned with Southern’s integrated tripartite mission of Research, Teaching, and Extension.
Ty’s story isn’t just about transition—it’s about transformation. From Extension to Enrollment, from the show ring to the academic arena, he’s proof that the Southern System grows more than students—it grows leaders.
The next generation has arrived. His name is Ty Sam.
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