1890 David Scott Scholars pursue research with support from federal program

Above: Joel Christopher Barhorst presents a research poster at Central State University's annual Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Activities Day. 

At Central State University, we are proud to celebrate the transformational impact of the 1890 David Scott Scholars Program — a powerful engine of opportunity that propels students toward academic excellence, research innovation, and meaningful careers in agriculture, science, and engineering. 

As Ohio’s only public Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Central State is deeply committed to cultivating future leaders dedicated to solving real-world challenges in their communities and beyond.

The following student success stories highlight how the 1890 David Scott Scholars Program empowers Central State students to pursue groundbreaking research, engage in national and global scientific conversations, and gain professional experience through competitive internships. With the support of this prestigious United States Department of Agriculture-funded scholarship, our scholars are not only achieving their goals — they are redefining the future of food systems, environmental sustainability, and equitable access to natural resources.

Meet Royalty Hightower, Joel Christopher Barhorst, and Thando Mawasha — an exceptional Marauder and two Centralians who exemplify the power of scholarship, service, and science in action.

1890 David Scott Student Success Stories

Royalty Hightower

Rising Senior | Sustainable Agriculture Major | 1890 David Scott Scholar

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Royalty Hightower, a junior at Central State University majoring in Sustainable Agriculture, exemplifies the next generation of agricultural leaders. As a dedicated 1890 David Scott Scholar, she has engaged in impactful research under the mentorship of Dr. Sakthi Kumaran, Research Associate Professor of Soil Science and Agronomy, including presenting her work at the 2024 Association of 1890 Research Directors Symposium in Nashville.

In summer 2024, Hightower conducted undergraduate research at the National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory, where she examined the effects of land management on organic carbon soil and runoff in Midwestern croplands. Her hands-on research included algae and water sampling, particle analysis using the Malvern Mastersizer 3000, and organizing data from rainfall simulations — advancing erosion science and sustainable land-use practices.

Hightower has shared her findings at multiple research symposiums, including at Purdue University. Committed to environmental stewardship and equity in agriculture, she aspires to develop sustainable, economically sound solutions that address global agricultural challenges and ensure a healthier planet for future generations.

Joel Christopher Barhorst

Class of 2025 | B.S. in Sustainable Agriculture | 1890 David Scott Scholar

Joel Christopher Barhorst graduated in 2025 with a degree in Sustainable Agriculture from Central State University, where he was an 1890 David Scott Scholar. 

Motivated by the urgent need to combat food insecurity, Barhorst chose CSU for its academic rigor and commitment to training professionals who will lead the future of agriculture.

Throughout his studies in the John W. Garland College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture, Barhorst contributed to innovative research projects on bee viruses, pollinator ecology, and sweet potato breeding. He presented his work at prestigious conferences, including the 2024 ARD Biennial Research Symposium and the International Union for the Study of Social Insects.

During summer 2024, Barhorst interned at the USDA Agricultural Research Service in West Lafayette, Indiana, researching aphid species. His internship was supported by the Central State University NEXTGEN program and the Climate Smart Agriculture Center, deepening his understanding of integrated pest management and sustainable crop production. Barhorst is now focused on continuing his work with the USDA, where he aims to develop forward-thinking solutions that benefit both farmers and food systems nationwide.

Thando Mawasha

Class of 2025 | B.S. in Environmental Engineering | 1890 David Scott Scholar

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Thando Mawasha, a 2025 graduate of Central State University, earned his degree in Environmental Engineering with a minor in Water Resources Management. A proud 1890 David Scott Scholar from Dayton, Ohio, Mawasha is committed to ensuring equitable access to clean water through engineering innovation.

His undergraduate experience included multiple internships that prepared him for real-world water systems management. At Oregon State University, he worked on wastewater-based epidemiology to detect COVID-19. At Central State, he explored corn evapotranspiration using eddy covariance technology — contributing valuable insights for water conservation in agriculture.

In 2023, Mawasha interned with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation in Utah, where he contributed to hydrologic sonar survey evaluations and water infrastructure design. He also gained experience at Tetra Tech, where he worked on environmental engineering designs and analyzed leachate for contaminants. His research excellence was recognized with an award at the 2024 ARD Biennial Symposium.

Accepted into several graduate programs, Mawasha plans to pursue a doctorate and a career in higher education, where he will train future environmental engineers and expand access to safe water systems worldwide.