LAND-GRANT IMPACTS EXAMPLES

A holistic approach to diabetes prevention and management
Land-grant universities play a crucial role in addressing diabetes. Their work helps individuals and families adopt healthier lifestyles, manage diabetes effectively and prevent complications. Extension programs provide evidence-based nutrition education, promote physical activity and support access to affordable, healthy food. Research is driving innovations in diabetes prevention and management. By combining scientific expertise with local engagement, land-grant universities empower communities to reduce the prevalence and impact of diabetes, improving public health and quality of life nationwide. 
Projects funded by Smith-Lever, USDA Capacity – Extension, and 1890 Extension. 

Understanding root causes of chronic health conditions, more natural ways to treat them 
Chronic health concerns, including diabetes, autoimmune disorders and vitamin deficiency, are costly and debilitating to patients and the healthcare system. Researchers across the Land-Grant University System are looking at new and often natural ways to help ease the onset or effects of common, chronic conditions, and promote better health along the way. 
Projects funded by Hatch. 

Food industry worker training reduces foodborne illness and enhances workforce development
Foodborne illnesses are a common and costly, yet preventable, public health issue. Training workers in the food industry on food safety issues is critical to public health as well as workforce development. Land-grant universities across the country continue to find innovative and effective methods to train workers on foodborne illness, how to prevent it and how to train other employees about the latest food safety issues. 
Projects funded by USDA Capacity –Extension and Smith-Lever. 

Optimizing use of heat to minimize food safety risks, maximize food quality
Using heat is essential for reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses in fresh products like eggs and milk and dry goods like spices, flour and powdered milk. In addition, a number of commodities require use of heat for processing. Finding the right balance of heat to ensure food quality and safety is an ongoing process, and one that researchers at land-grant universities across the country are studying. 
Projects funded by AFRI and Hatch. 

Land-grant university research uses natural methods to combat issues in antimicrobial resistance 
Resistance to commonly used antimicrobials is a growing threat to human health. Researchers at land-grant universities have identified natural substances that can be used to fight bacteria and other microbes. These alternatives may be more sustainable options as they could pose fewer health risks and help limit the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Reducing antimicrobial resistance is key to preserving the long-term effectiveness of available treatments for many diseases. 
Projects funded by Hatch and Evans-Alan. 

Building foundations for health with early childhood education
Early childhood education is imperative as it lays the foundation for a child’s academic, social and emotional development. Learning about healthy habits and nutrition during these formative years equips children with essential skills for future success and well-being. The Cooperative Extension System addresses these needs by leveraging its extensive network of land-grant universities and local offices to provide research-based nutrition and health education, training and other resources for children, families and childcare providers. 
Projects funded by Smith-Lever. 

Youth empowerment leads to healthful resilience
Empowering youth with nutrition and health education essential for building healthier communities. The Land-grant University System provides science-based programs that teach young people how to make informed food choices, develop lifelong healthy habits and understand the connections between nutrition and well-being. By equipping youth with this knowledge, the programs foster resilience, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall well-being. 
Projects funded by Smith-Lever. 

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program strengthens families with hands-on education
The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) strengthens families by providing hands-on nutrition education to those with limited resources. Through practical lessons in healthy eating, meal planning, food budgeting and physical activity, EFNEP helps families develop lifelong skills that improve their overall well-being. As families adopt healthier lifestyles, they reduce their risk of chronic diseases and food insecurity. EFNEP creates lasting, positive change, empowering families to build a healthier future together. 
Projects funded by USDA Capacity – Research, Smith-Lever. 

Cultivating mental health resilience
The Land-grant University System is tackling mental health challenges through innovative programs. Extension professionals are uniquely positioned to educate and support urban, suburban and rural communities, offering programs that teach coping skills, recognize mental health signs, and normalize conversations about mental health. Addressing mental health is crucial because it enhances overall well-being, improves quality of life and fosters healthier, more resilient communities. 
Projects funded by Hatch, Smith-Lever. USDA Competitive. 

APLU Commission of Food, Environment, and Renewable Resources Webinar 

Positioned for Impact: Aligning Institutional Strengths to Advance Food, Nutrition, and Human Health  

Public and land-grant universities have long served as leaders in advancing human health through integrated work in agriculture, food systems, nutrition, and community well-being. Today, as national health challenges grow more complex and the policy environment continues to evolve, these institutions are especially well-positioned to accelerate progress.   

This webinar explored how universities are leveraging their interdisciplinary strengths to address health challenges through research, education, and Extension.  University leaders offered commentary on innovative strategies, emerging opportunities, and the expanding role of public research institutions in this space.  

Moderator:   

• President Mun Y. Choi, Chancellor of the University of Missouri and President of the University of Missouri System 

Panelists:  

• Dominique Carter, Principal, Lewis-Burke Associates
• Marion Underwood, Provost and Executive Vice President, Colorado State University 
• Dennis Becker, Dean and Professor of Natural Resource Policy, University of Idaho 
• Mario Ferruzzi, Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Virginia Tech  

CFERR Webinar Recording.  Passcode: &$0mq?p7 

MONTHS

National Pear Month, #NationalPearMonth 
Worldwide Food Service Safety Month, #WorldwideFoodServiceSafetyMonth, #WFSSM 

DAYS

December 1: National Pie Day, #NationalPieDay
December 4: Wildlife Conservation Day, #WildlifeConservationDay
December 5: World Soil Day, #WorldSoilDay, #WSD
December 12: National Poinsettia Day, #NationalPoinsettiaDay
December 17: National Maple Syrup Day, #MapleSyrupDay
December 21: First Day of Winter, #WinterSolstice
December 31: New Year’s Eve, #NewYearsEve

^{Source: December - National Day Calendar}