A Fort Valley State University professor recently earned national honors for applying modern technology for agricultural use.
Dr. Cedric Ogden, Extension engineer and professor for FVSU’s College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology, was recently honored by the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU) in Seattle, Washington.
He received the 1890’s Regional Award for Individual Excellence in Extension for his work with Unmanned Arial Vehicles (UAVs) and alternative energy sources. This includes his efforts in the application of drones for agricultural use and collaborating with Georgia Power in developing a solar farm on the FVSU campus.
APLU is an organization that focuses on issues concerning institutions of higher learning across the U.S., its territories, Canada and Mexico.
The award is given to a person who promotes innovative engagement with diverse communities by using technology to address economic and environmental challenges.
A committee nominated Ogden for the award. It was composed of members from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the Cooperative Extension System’s Extension Committee on Organization and Polity (ECOP).
In addition to receiving a plaque for his efforts, Ogden received a cash award of $1,000.
“It is gratifying and truly an honor to be recognized on a national stage for my vision, research and outreach efforts to benefit communities through technological advances,” Ogden said. “There is a sense of purpose and resolve to assist in organizational changes that support diversity, pluralism and innovation in a program that effectively impacts our Extension audiences.”
Furthermore, Ogden, who is an alumnus of FVSU, said winning the award and representing his alma mater is an additional sense of pride.
“This recognition is a testament to the quality education, support and foundation provided by FVSU. I’m grateful for the opportunities and proud to carry the spirit of this institution forward,” Ogden said.
For more information about FVSU’s Cooperative Extension program, call (478) 825-6296.