Land-Grant Universities and Extension: Bringing Research to Your Community

In part three of our land-grant series, we turn to the final pillar of the land-grant mission: Extension. We’re joined by Dr. Annie Hardison-Moody and Dr. Misty Blue-Terry to explore how Extension connects research and teaching directly to communities across North Carolina. Together, they explain what Cooperative Extension is, why it was created, and how it continues to serve as the outreach arm of land-grant universities. We also discuss the distinct historical foundations of NC State and NC A&T State, and how their partnership strengthens impact across the state. Throughout the episode, we highlight how Extension translates research into practical solutions, builds long-term relationships with communities, and addresses modern challenges in agriculture, food systems, and public health. Tune in to learn why Extension remains a vital, people-centered force within the land-grant mission. Learn more about Dr. Hardison-Moody’s work below:NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/annie-hardison-moody/ Learn more about Dr. Blue-Terry’s work below:NC A&T State University Bio Page: https://sswd.center/teams/misty-blue-terry-phd/ Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:National Archives- Morrill Act (1862): https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/morrill-act Historical Sketch of NC State University: https://www.lib.ncsu.edu/scrc/university-historical-sketch NC State Extension: https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/ “Our Blues Make Us Gold” Documentary: https://www.ncat.edu/news/2024/08/our-blues-make-us-gold.php USDA Cooperative Extension History: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/about-nifa/what-we-do/extension/cooperative-extension-history NC A&T State University “A Rich History”: https://www.ncat.edu/caes/cooperative-extension/history.php NC A&T State University “1890 Programs and Initiatives”: https://www.ncat.edu/caes/morrill-act/programs-and-initiatives.php#:~:text=Agriculture%20(NIFA)%20.-,Today%2C%20the%201890s%20Foundation%2C%20the%20%E2%80%9C19%20Strong%2C%E2%80%9D,Food%20and%20Agriculture%20(NIFA). The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha GulabraiMusic: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.