“When I first learned about my acceptance, I called my parents and shared how blessed I felt. It’s a big deal to be from Orangeburg and to be chosen as a Future Leader in Agriculture,” expressed Pickering, reflecting on his initial reaction upon learning about his acceptance into the program. “I want to make the biggest stride forward, particularly with the 1890 program. Without 1890 [Research & Extension], this wouldn’t have been possible.”
Pickering, who was selected out of 20 program participants, will travel to Washington, D.C., on February 12-16, 2024, to participate in an enriching experience. The itinerary includes a tour of the nation’s capital, attendance at USDA’s premier annual event – the Agricultural Outlook Forum, and participation in several USDA briefings. The unique opportunity will provide students with insights into the future of agriculture and gain numerous opportunities for career development with leaders at USDA.
Pickering, credits much of his journey to the guidance and support of Travis Johnson,
Agribusiness major and ag innovation scholar, Randall Pickering Jr., along with \mathbf { A } \mathbf { g } scholars Bianca McDowell and Candice Govan at the National Black MBA Association, Inc. (NBMBAA) conference in Philadelphia, Pa.
USDA 1890 liaison.
“Honestly, this opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without my liaison, Travis Johnson,” said Pickering, as he elaborated on his motivation for applying to the Future Leaders in Agriculture program, highlighting Johnson’s instrumental role in providing opportunities and guidance, particularly through an internship in Jackson, MS, with the USDA Farm Service Agency.
“[The internship] has given me insight on what they do at USDA, like working with farm loans and crop disaster programs and helping the community. It gave me networking opportunities, from meeting people in those career paths, teaching me and showing me things.”
Looking ahead, Pickering outlined his specific goals for personal and professional development, emphasizing his desire to connect with USDA leaders to gain deeper insights into their roles and carve out a career at USDA.
Pickering will participate in a second internship with USDA this summer, with hopes to secure upon graduation with
the Farm Service Agency.
Regarding the positive impact he hopes to make within the industry, Pickering emphasized his commitment to helping youth in the community become more educated about agriculture and supporting farmers with loans and disaster programs.
“We are thrilled to see Randall Pickering recognized for his leadership potential and dedication to becoming a future leader in agriculture. This achievement reflects the caliber of our students and the commitment of SC State [university] and SC State PSA to fostering excellence in agriculture education,” said Dr. Louis Whitesides, vice president of SC State Public Service & Agriculture and executive director of SC State 1890 Research & Extension.
The Future Leaders in Agriculture Program is supported by the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Farm Credit, and various USDA agencies.
For more information about the Future Leaders Program, please visit https://reg eventmobi.com/USDAOutlookForum2024/pages/fl
