We believe (and research has shown) that through intentional mentoring, professional development and enhanced career awareness, youth will envision themselves working in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) related careers in agriculture and will more likely pursue STEM-related majors in college.
Our Program
Cultivate ACCESS is a team of faculty and staff in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Cultivate ACCESS began with funding from the US Department of Agriculture with the goal to increase participation of people who are underrepresented in agricultural careers. Our team has experience in extension, outreach, teaching, student success, and career development. We have led numerous professional development programs for youth and adult audiences using both virtual and face-to-face strategies. To date, we have impacted educators and scholars from over 20 communities across Nebraska.
Our Goal
The long-term goal of Cultivate ACCESS is to increase participation of people who are underrepresented in STEM-related agricultural careers and from rural towns in Nebraska. Our program is a holistic mentoring and development program that engages high school youth (scholars), parents, college students (ambassadors), and career professionals (mentors).