As a resource assistant I have experienced personal and professional growth. This role, which coincided with the culmination of my Ph.D. studies at Auburn University, has been both challenging and rewarding, providing me with a unique perspective on conservation, community engagement, and academic achievement. Balancing my responsibilities as a Resource Assistant while completing my Ph.D. in Agriculture Education at Auburn University was no small feat. It required meticulous time management, unwavering dedication, and a deep passion for both my professional duties and academic pursuits. This dual commitment not only honed my skills but also enriched my understanding of the intricate connections between environmental stewardship and educational advancement.

During my tenure, I contributed to various projects that played a vital role in the agency's operations. I facilitated regional data management and ensured compliance with national policies, including directives related to recreation data targets and hydropower projects. My responsibilities included coordinating the collection and summarization of regional data for annual reports to Headquarters. I worked closely with various Forest Service programs to understand and achieve data targets, provided specific guidance on recreational target inputs, and offered one-on-one support as needed. Additionally, I assisted Public Services program managers in developing and improving SharePoint and Teams channels. My administrative support included efficient file management, meeting agenda preparation, and project coordination. Engaging in continuous training plans and project monitoring ensured efficient workflow and progress tracking, contributing to the overall success of the projects.

Graduating with my Ph.D. in May was a significant milestone in my career. My dissertation, titled "Growing Agricultural Literacy: Investigating Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Climate Smart Agriculture and Food Security," explored the critical need for agricultural literacy. This study aimed to understand its complex scope, assess existing gaps, and propose strategies for improvement. Agricultural literacy is essential for both direct stakeholders in agriculture and consumers. Despite agriculture's presence in daily life, a visible gap exists in public understanding, particularly regarding climate-smart practices. By using a descriptive and correlational design, my research analyzed the relationship between agricultural literacy and attitudes toward climate-smart agriculture. The results highlighted the importance of tailored educational programs and policy frameworks aimed at nurturing agricultural literacy. The impacts of these efforts extend to education systems, envisioning a complete incorporation of agricultural literacy into all levels of education. From primary school curricula to college education, embedding agricultural literacy imparts essential insights into food systems and environmental stewardship.