Students at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) recently had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Stephon Fitzpatrick, executive director of Together We Grow, who shared his personal and professional journey in agriculture during a presentation with members of MANNRS.
During the presentation, Dr. Fitzpatrick reflected on his path into agriculture and the experiences that shaped his career. A product of historically Black colleges and universities, he described himself as a first-generation college student and the first in his family to enter the agriculture industry.
Dr. Fitzpatrick said his interest in agriculture began through his involvement in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization while in high school. He later became the first Black student and chapter president of his FFA chapter, an experience that helped develop his leadership skills and passion for the field. Through his involvement in FFA, Dr. Fitzpatrick earned an 1890 Scholarship that led to additional opportunities within the agriculture industry.
He later transitioned into higher education, where he worked in agricultural recruitment, student development and workforce preparation. While working with the School of Agriculture and Natural Sciences at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Dr. Fitzpatrick helped expand student outreach efforts and strengthen academic programs.
“Many students only think of farming when they hear agriculture,” Dr. Fitzpatrick said. “But the industry includes careers in marketing, law, cybersecurity, engineering, nutrition and environmental science.”
Throughout the presentation, Dr. Fitzpatrick encouraged students to focus on mentorship, networking and perseverance as they pursue careers in agriculture and related industries. “Your network matters,” he told students. “If you’re serious about your goals, people will help you get there — but you have to be willing to put in the work.”
Dameion White, an agriculture research associate at UAPB, helped coordinate the event and invited Dr. Fitzpatrick to speak with students.
“I think that if we are going to reach our agriculture goals for the future, then we must invest in the youth today,” White said. “Having Dr. Fitzpatrick come and speak with our students was a great opportunity for them to learn about leadership and career pathways in agriculture.”
Morgan White, president of the UAPB MANNRS chapter, said events like this help students connect with professionals in the field.
“It’s very important for students to hear from people who are already established in their careers,” Morgan White said. “Opportunities like this allow students to build connections and see the many possibilities within agriculture.”
Dr. Fitzpatrick currently works at the national level supporting workforce development in agriculture and related industries. After relocating to Colorado in 2025, he now focuses on strategic planning, leadership development and strengthening pathways for students entering agricultural careers.
The event provided UAPB students with insight into the wide range of opportunities available within the agriculture industry and the importance of leadership and mentorship in shaping future careers.
Pursuant to 7 CFR Section 15.3, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences, 1890 Research and Extension Programs, offers all its Extension and Research programs and services (including employment) without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual preference, pregnancy, or any other legally protected status, and is an equal opportunity institution.
