As she nears graduation, Madison Purifoy, a University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff student majoring in nutrition and food science, reflects on her scholastic journey. She said her decision to enroll in the UAPB Department of Human Sciences was motivated by a strong desire to help people, as well as an interest in food and nutrition.
“The turning point came when I attended a summer camp where I not only learned more about nutrition but also had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in food science,” she said. “That experience sparked a deeper interest and gave me a firsthand look at how science and food intersect, which ultimately encouraged me to pursue a career in food science.”
Thanks to the summer camp, Purifoy began to realize how impactful food science can be in improving public health. She ultimately decided to combine her passion for helping others with a career that focuses on both nutrition and food science.
“This path will allow me to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by promoting healthier food choices and working to improve food systems,” she said.
During her time at UAPB, Purifoy received the Dean’s Academic Scholarship. She later became one of 42 students awarded the 1890 Scholarship by the UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences (SAFHS).
“This scholarship played a pivotal role in my education, as it provided me with the opportunity to attend university on a full ride, alleviating financial burdens and allowing me to focus on my academic and professional development fully,” she said. “Being a UAPB 1890 scholar also opened doors to invaluable experiences. For example, I was able to secure summer internships and leadership roles that helped me build a strong foundation for my career. Additionally, the scholarship allowed me to attend several conferences where I presented my research and competed for awards, further enhancing my skills and confidence in my field.”
Purifoy said UAPB has given her the tools to grow academically and professionally.
“UAPB offers a supportive and hands-on learning environment that has allowed me to gain valuable practical experience, not just within the university itself, but also through partnerships with other institutions and businesses,” she said. “This real-world exposure has been instrumental in bridging the gap between classroom theory and practical application.”
As a food science lab assistant at UAPB-SAFHS, she contributed to a study examining the chymase inhibitory and antioxidant properties of sweet potatoes. Her research was presented at the Arkansas IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence Conference and the 80th Professional Agricultural Workers Conference at Tuskegee University, where she earned second place for her oral presentation.
In addition to her on-campus work, Purifoy completed summer internships with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. In 2022, she worked with the Delta Water Management Research Unit in Jonesboro, Arkansas analyzing rice strains and collecting greenhouse gas data. The following summer, she served as a biological science technician at the Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center in Little Rock, contributing to research on carrot anthocyanins and vitamin A enhancement in sorghum.
“Whether through internships, research projects or collaborations with industry experts, these experiences have sharpened my skills and prepared me to navigate the complexities of my field,” she said. “The personalized attention and mentorship from faculty have been crucial in helping me grow both as a student and professional, providing me with the confidence and knowledge needed to pursue my career goals. This well-rounded development has been key in shaping my academic journey and has positioned me to make a meaningful impact in my future endeavors.”
The internships she participated in helped her understand what the actual work in her field will be like and taught her how to communicate effectively.
“As I prepare to start working on a Ph.D., I realize these internships have prepared me by letting me experience what it will be like to work in a lab and attending classes full-time, she said. “They were also helpful in allowing me to build confidence in presenting my research.”
Purifoy was recently admitted into Kansas State University’s doctoral program in grain science and industry.
“I’ve always desired a Ph.D., and this chance lets me combine my dream with my passions – a deep desire to contribute to improving global food security and sustainability,” she said. “Grains are fundamental to human diets worldwide, and researching ways to optimize grain production, quality and resilience could help address challenges like climate change, population growth and malnutrition. A doctoral degree could provide the expertise needed to influence food security, agricultural practices and environmental sustainability policies.”
Purifoy said her ideal career is one where she makes a meaningful, long-term impact on underrepresented communities by advocating for healthier lifestyles and empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to thrive.
“I envision myself working at the intersection of public health, community engagement and research, developing programs that provide accessible, evidence-based education on nutrition, wellness and sustainable living practices,” she said. “These programs would be tailored to the specific needs of underserved communities, addressing barriers to health and well-being such as food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare and limited educational resources.”
She plans to contribute to the field through research, whether in academia or industry, exploring innovative solutions to public health challenges and influencing policy that promotes health equity.
“By combining advocacy, community-driven education and research, I hope to help create lasting change that fosters healthier lifestyles and empowers individuals to take control of their well-being,” she said.
During her time at UAPB, Purifoy has held leadership roles in several student organizations. She served as vice president of the UAPB chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) and represented the Department of Human Sciences in the Student Government Association Senate. She was a SAFHS Golden Lion mentor and a member of the Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society. Her campus involvement includes membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success, Collegiate 4-H and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., where she currently serves as chapter chaplain.
