CAHES Student Sterling Brown appointed as MANRRS Region I National Undergraduate Vice President
Baton Rouge, La. – Sterling Brown, a senior agriculture business major in the Southern University College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences (CAHES), has been appointed the Region I National Undergraduate Vice President in Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) organization. The appointment took place during the organization's 39th National Conference and Career Expo, held in Memphis, Tennessee, from April 2-6, 2025.
MANRRS is a collegiate organization dedicated to fostering student success and increasing access to industry connections, internships, scholarships, and other professional development opportunities within agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences.
Brown, a native of Alexandria, LA, began his involvement with the Southern University chapter of MANRRS in2022. His dedication led to a series of leadership roles within the chapter, including serving as the Sergeant at Arms in 2024, progressing to Vice President later that year, and assuming the role of Chapter President in 2025.
He reflects positively on his participation in MANRRS, highlighting its impact on building his resume, expanding his professional and social network, and enhancing his confidence.
In his new national role, Brown's responsibilities will include focusing on membership retention, facilitating communication among chapters in his region, advocating for members, and representing participants both within and beyond the organization. This includes participation in the bi-annual regional clusters and the national conference, which is scheduled to be held in Dallas, Texas, next year.
This marks Brown's second application for a national position, and he acknowledges the valuable lessons learned in determination and patience alongside leadership skills.
"I've learned with patience; you have to wait for your time," Brown states. "Sometimes, when we don't get what we want, we get frustrated and give up. But everyone's timing is different, and you'll know when it's your time. I'm learning that now," he added.
In addition to his national MANRRS responsibilities, Brown remains actively involved in the Southern Institute for Medicinal Plants (SIMP) and the Southern University Agricultural Research & Extension Center, where he contributes to various projects, including groundbreaking viticulture research.
Alongside recent alumnus Christian Jacobs, Brown is a founding member of Ag Business Students United (ABSU), an organization established to serve and represent agriculture business and economics students. The pair successfully created a scholarship fund that has awarded $1,000 in scholarships to five CAHES students.
While his national accomplishments are significant, Brown recognizes the support he has received. He credits Dr. Jodi Morton, Assistant Professor in Agricultural Sciences and Technology, with encouraging his initial involvement in MANRRS. Brown also extends his gratitude to Dr. Janana Snowden, Director of SIMP and dedicated MANRRS advisor, Chianti Primus, Senior Administrative Assistant and MANRRS co-advisor, and Dr. Marlin Ford, Research Assistant Professor/Urban Agricultural Specialist.
Brown is the third Southern University student to hold a national position under Dr. Snowden's tenure.
Following his graduation in Spring 2026, Brown plans to establish his professional career, with an interest in international agriculture, before continuing his involvement with MANRRS at the professional level.
Sterling Brown's achievements and dedication serve as an inspiring example for all students in the College of Ag.
