This National Volunteer Month, we celebrate those who serve on behalf of the land-grant university mission. After retiring from an extensive career with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Elvis L. Graves continues to give back to North Carolina agriculture, and his alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University, through his volunteer service with the Council for Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching (CARET).
CARET is a national grassroots coalition of volunteers advocating for sustained federal support of the land-grant university system. Graves has served as a delegate representing North Carolina A&T for 13 years. Learn more about his service in this Q&A:
What first inspired you to become a CARET delegate, and what has kept you committed over time?
When initially asked I have to admit that I knew very little about CARET. I was, however; familiar with APLU and the work of the organization through my affiliation with USDA. After the first meeting I recognized the value of CARET and how it would benefit my institution and I wanted to become involved.
How does funding for research, education, and Extension help your community?
Having grown up on a farm in rural NC, I was aware of the assistance provided through Cooperative Extension. Extension and USDA where trusted professionals who were available to assist with problems on the farm and in our community.
Can you share a moment from your time as a CARET delegate that really stayed with you, and/or you when saw the impact of your advocacy?
During the initial years of my tenure as a CARET delegate, we were able to get increases in funding for the university and as a result we were able to parlay this into increased funding from the state. Because of our success at the federal level the university was able to receive a one-to-one match from the state for the first time in the history of the university. With this we have been able to show increased outreach to the constituents across the state.
What does being a CARET delegate mean to you personally?
I am honored to represent my university and feel that I am able to contribute to the success of the college and its products, services, and especially the students.
The Council for Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching (CARET) is dedicated to improving national support and understanding of the important role played by land-grant colleges in the food and agricultural systems, as well as the profound consequences of that role for the U.S. food supply and the nation. Learn more about CARET.
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