Alcorn State University students Samuel Brown and Je’Milya Hudson joined global leaders at the World Food Prize/Borlaug Dialogues in Des Moines, Iowa, Oct. 21-23 to discuss food security and sustainable agriculture.
The agricultural business management majors participated through the Global Teach Agriculture Network, a partnership of five universities — Alcorn State, Penn State, the University of Idaho, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Tuskegee University.
Andra Collins, assistant professor of workforce education and leadership at Alcorn State, accompanied the students and serves as a facilitator for the network.
Entrance display for the 2025 Dr. Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue
held in Des Moines, IA October 20-24,2025
Brown, a senior from Okolona, Miss., studies sustainable crop management and agricultural education.
He said the conference showed him how Mississippi farmers could benefit from global innovations in food systems.
Samuel Brown standing next to a life-sized painting of Dr. Norman E. Borlaug
Hudson, a junior from Tchula, Miss., focuses on climate vulnerability and community resilience.
Growing up in an area affected by flooding and severe weather, she wanted to learn how international strategies could help local farmers adapt to climate change.
“This type of engagement gives our students a chance to translate global knowledge into local action,” Collins said.
The students’ trip was supported by Alcorn’s 1890 National Scholars Initiative, which helps students pursue careers in food, agriculture and natural resources.
Back on campus, Brown and Hudson plan to host a forum to share what they learned. They also want to explore pilot projects focused on climate-resilient crops and community outreach.
The World Food Prize/Borlaug Dialogues brings together scientists, policymakers, educators and emerging leaders from around the world.
Named for Nobel Peace Prize laureate Norman Borlaug, the event is hosted by the World Food Prize Foundation.
