Central State University faculty and students represent at 1890 Land-Grant symposium at Florida A&M University

Central State University joined peers from across the country at the 2025 Student Success and Workforce Development (SSWD) Symposium, held May 19–21 at Florida A&M University (FAMU).  

Leading the charge from Central State were Dr. Ibrahim Katampe, Project Director, and Dr. Lubna Abu-Niaaj, Co-Project Director of the 2024–2025 SSWD grant. They were accompanied by four outstanding students from the John W. Garland College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture (JWG CESTA):  

• Dylan Damiano, Computer Science  

• Meyah Pillow, Sustainable Agriculture  

• Hannah Oyako, Sustainable Agriculture  

• Gabrielle Falconer, Water Resource Management 

Image

Under the powerful theme “Motivating, Educating, and Achieving for 135 Years,” this year’s symposium celebrated the enduring legacy and collaborative strength of the 1890 Land-Grant system — a network of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) established to promote access and excellence in agricultural and technical education.  

Together, the Marauders team exemplified academic excellence, innovation, and a strong commitment to advancing the Ag-STEM workforce pipeline.  

Investing in futures: Over $65,000 in student support  

Through the SSWD grant, Central State has awarded over $65,000 in stipends to undergraduate students during this academic year. These funds supported research projects, summer internships, travel to national conferences, and the purchase of laboratory materials. Notably, two SSWD scholars presented their research at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Students (ABRCMS), one of the nation’s premier forums for emerging scientists from underrepresented backgrounds. 

Elevating student success through Ag-STEM  

At the symposium, Drs. Katampe and Abu-Niaaj presented a research poster highlighting the goals and outcomes of their SSWD grant — a collaborative effort involving Central State University and Delaware State University. This project focuses on recruiting, retaining, and developing STEM students in fields related to food, agriculture, and natural and human sciences (FANHS) through hands-on, high-impact learning experiences.  

The poster showcased student-led research, professional skill development, and community engagement initiatives that empower the next generation of Ag-STEM professionals. 

“This grant represents our commitment to preparing scholars with the technical expertise and professional readiness to lead in their fields,” Dr. Katampe stated.  

Showcasing CSU talent on a national stage  

CSU students did not just attend — they made a significant impact. From participating in case study competitions to taking part in thought-provoking discussions, their presence showcased the University’s growing national profile within the SSWD network.  

A standout moment included a poster presentation on the bioremediation of wastewater, by Pillow under the mentorship of Dr. Abu-Niaaj. The project originated in a microbiology course and demonstrated the real-world problem-solving CSU students are tackling through research.  

Image

Beyond the formal sessions, students enjoyed a variety of educational and cultural tours that enriched their experience, including visits to the FAMU campus and vineyards, the historic Carnegie Library, and the annual public reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in a local park — a powerful reminder of the heritage and mission that unify 1890 institutions.  

Building community and confidence  

The Central State delegation gained far more than academic accolades. They engaged in structured networking sessions, collaborated with students from other 1890 institutions, and gained valuable insights into career opportunities within the Ag-STEM workforce. The symposium emphasized the importance of mentorship, professional readiness, and fostering inclusive academic communities.  

“The students’ proactive participation and leadership impressed attendees across the board,” Dr. Abu-Niaaj remarked. “Their performance reinforced Central State’s reputation as a campus where excellence is cultivated and scholars are prepared to lead.”  

Image

A united front for progress  

Representation at national events like the SSWD Symposium is vital to CSU’s Land-Grant mission to serve, uplift, and innovate through research, teaching, and outreach. As the only HBCU and 1890 Land-Grant Institution in Ohio, Central State continues to build bridges between research and real-world impact and tradition and transformation.  

“This symposium was a powerful reminder of the shared mission we carry as 1890 Land-Grant universities,” Dr. Katampe concluded. 

“Our students are not just the future — they are the present, and they’re already making a difference.”