Tennessee State University faculty member receives U.S. Department of Agriculture National Teaching Award
Dr. De’Etra Young is the Associate Dean for Academics and Land-grant Programs and is seen as a leader in undergraduate research.
Tennessee State University's Dr. De’Etra Young has received a National Teaching Award from the USDA, which includes a $5,000 stipend to make improvements in teaching.
According to an article on Tennessee State University’s website, Dr. Young said of receiving the award, “This recognition celebrates my dedication to education and symbolizes the rich legacy of Tennessee State University, an HBCU committed to preparing students for success. At TSU, we take pride in our mission to excel in teaching and learning, offering experiential learning opportunities and fostering professional development for our students. This award is a testament to the University and College of Agriculture’s commitment to innovation in the classroom.”
Dr. Young has a bachelor’s degree in Urban Forestry as well as a Master’s and PhD in Forestry. In her decade-long tenure at Tennessee State University, she has been awarded more than $30 million in grant funding.
Serving as the Associate Dean for Academics and Land-Grant Programs at Tennessee State University, Dr. Young is also a mentor and motivator for undergraduate students to pursue their own research. She has helped students who have gone on to receive recognitions and awards of their own.
CheKenna Fletcher, a PhD student in agricultural sciences, said of Dr. Young, “Her tireless commitment to guiding students through their academic journey and beyond is unmatched. From crafting heartfelt recommendation letters to being a constant source of encouragement, she embodies selflessness like no other, proving that leadership leaves no room for personal rest but thrives in the success of others.”
Also singing Dr. Young’s praises is Blake Wright, who is studying agricultural sciences. He said of what he has been able to accomplish with Dr. Young as his mentor, “I was able to get accepted for an 1890 farm bill scholarship, and she makes sure students are aware of leadership opportunities. She overcomes challenges, presents great opportunity, and this national recognition is long overdue.”
“Dr. Young’s passion to engage high school and undergraduate students in research makes our novel summer apprenticeship and dean’s scholar’s program so popular with participating students and their families. I congratulate her on behalf of my colleagues in the College for getting selected for this prestigious national teaching award,” said Dr. Chandra Reddy, the dean of the College of Agriculture.
For more information about Tennessee State University, visit the school’s website.