The Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources is committed to increasing its diversity and fostering a culture of true inclusion. Today, the Dr. Bill Bennett Student Success Center continues to develop its new platform for getting to better know some of our outstanding students.  

Name: Laura Jimenez; Major: Animal Science; Activities: Congressional Internship, Ambassadors for Agriculture; Classification: Junior; Hometown: Austin, Texas

• My Experience: The diverse community in Davis College has broadened my knowledge by learning about the different backgrounds of students and each of their distinct perspectives in agriculture. My participation in organizations such as Ambassadors for Agriculture has helped me recognize the value diversity offers. Engaging with diverse students exposes me to different topics I wouldn't have known about if it weren't for these individuals. I am grateful to have personally learned through these types of interactions about Honduras' food processing systems from an international student and the citrus industry from a South Texan student through Davis College. 
• Why Davis College: The Davis College granted me with the opportunity to work in the Texas Capitol as the 2021 Congressional Internship recipient. This opportunity to serve and make my own contribution in the agriculture industry was possible because of the support from Davis College. While working in the Capitol, I grew to appreciate agriculture more and became interested in agriculture policy and international trade. Shortly after my internship concluded, I became the International Trade Programs Intern for the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. I appreciate Davis College, especially the professors and staff that have helped propel my career in the agriculture industry.  
• Piece of Advice: Educate yourself on fortifying and establishing industry relationships early in your college career, ultimately experiences from these connections are the most valuable. 
• Getting Connected: At Tech there is a role for everyone. Connect with classmates and find out which organizations they are a part of. In my personal experience, my home became the organization Ambassadors for Agriculture and the Mentor Tech program. 
• I Promote DEI by: Encouraging others with my background to participate in agriculture by helping them recognize the important role their own experiences can have in influencing the future of agriculture.  

“Diversity and equity is critical to our research and educational missions,” said Sandra Addo, Davis College's Administrator for Diversity & Graduate Student Recruitment. “We seek to realize the full promise of a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture by offering an environment where everyone can thrive.” 

“Our Vision is to lead Davis College toward an equitable, inclusive, and diverse culture where everyone has a strong sense of belonging,” she said. “We envision an environment that catalyzes and sustains inclusion to enable all people to feel that the identity they hold belongs and authentically influences the culture, values, and future of the college.”

CONTACT: Sandra Addo, DEI Committee Co-Chair and Program Manager for Diversity & Graduate Student Recruitment, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or sandra.addo@ttu.edu

0308NM22 / Editor's Note: For detailed information on Davis College DE&I programs, click here