UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication

The UF Department of Agricultural Education and Communication showcased excellence at the 2025 Southern American Association for Agricultural Education (Southern-AAAE) Conference by presenting award-winning research and demonstrating leadership in the field. ?? Read more about our department's presence at the conference here: https://loom.ly/IgrCpfM #UFAEC #AgEducation #Leadership

The University of Florida Department of Agricultural Education and Communication was well represented at the 2025 National Agricultural Communications Symposium (NACS). From award-winning research to leadership roles, our faculty and students showcased excellence in agricultural communication. ?? Read the full recap here: https://loom.ly/IgrCpfM #UFAEC #AgCommunication #NACS2025 #GoGators

Congratulations to Dorcas Sunday for successfully defending her master's thesis, "Communicating Science: An analysis of risk perceptions and trust among undergraduate students in the context of an Avian Influenza Outbreak." Dorcas was advised by her committee chair, Dr. Lauri Baker, and committee member, Dr. Heather Young! After graduating in May, she plans to continue her graduate education by pursuing a PhD in Agricultural Communication. ??

Today is Gator Nation Giving Day! ?? Meet Megan Edge, an AEC undergraduate student whose passion for agricultural communications shines through her involvement in her undergraduate research, internships, and extracurricular involvement within CALS. Thanks to support from the AEC 1909 Society, Megan has gained hands-on experience in digital media, research, and professional development within our department. Alumni and friends, by joining the 1909 Society today, with a gift of at least $19.09, you can help students like Megan access scholarships, attend conferences, and gain the skills they need to lead in the industry. ?? Read more about Megan’s journey and the impact of alumni support here: https://loom.ly/cp_vhv4 ?? Click here to join 1909 today! https://loom.ly/o4imbrE

Congratulations to Caitlynne Youmans on successfully defending her master's thesis, "Reimagining Impacts: Exploring Using AI and BI to Understand Extension Impact Statements to Market Extension." Caitlynne plans to work in a communications role upon graduating in May, and she was advised by her committee chair, Dr. Lauri Baker and committee member Dr. Matt Benge. Well done! ??

Attention students! Are you planning to graduate this semester? ?? The Spring 2025 Degree Applications deadline is TODAY, February 7th 2025. Follow this link to apply: https://loom.ly/MLmlFCI.

AEC Alumni Spotlight ?? Audra Weeks (B.S. ‘18) has built a dynamic career in agricultural communications, spanning government, political campaigns, and the private sector. From serving as Deputy Press Secretary at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to specializing in crisis and issues management for food and agriculture clients, her career journey highlights the diverse opportunities in our field. Now, Audra takes on a new role as Deputy Director of Communications at USDA, where she will continue applying her expertise in strategic communication. We love seeing AEC graduates making an impact across industries! ?? ?? Learn more: https://bit.ly/4hJYaie #ufaec #aecgrad #ufgrad

?????? Agriculture educators! Looking for high-quality resources to support your agriculture classes? The UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication offers a variety of teaching materials aligned with Florida education standards. Explore our resources and contribute your own to support ag educators across the state. ?? : https://loom.ly/1LIh0YI #AgEducation #TeachAg #UFIFAS #UFAEC

Want to Intern in Washington, DC? ?? The Summer 2025 Washington Internship Program is your chance to work in Florida Congressional and Senate offices in Washington DC. Interested? Start by joining our Virtual Info Session this Monday, Feb. 3 at 4 pm! ?? Get all the details you need about the internship, application process, and more. The program is open to UF students of all majors. Don't miss out—register now for the info session! ?? Register at https://lnkd.in/ee-wq9q3! #UFInternships #PublicService #WashingtonDC #BobGrahamCenter #UFStudents #InternshipOpportunities

Congratulations to Jessica Czipulis on the successful defense of her master's project, "Examining Perceptions and Attitudes of The Florida Cattleman and Livestock Journal's Readership." She was advised by Dr. Ricky Telg, and her committee members were Dr. Lauri Baker and Dr. Todd Thrift. After graduation, Jessica plans on working as a communications associate at the Florida Cattlemen's Association. Congratulations, Jessica! ??