Cleveland Community College Receives $7,000 Grant from USPOULTRY Foundation

The USPOULTRY Foundation has generously awarded a $7,000 student recruiting grant to Cleveland Community College (CCC) in Shelby, North Carolina. This initiative supports CCC’s commitment to providing top-notch education in applied animal science, particularly in the agriculturally vibrant foothills of the region.

Expanded Educational Opportunities

Building on its success over the past three years, CCC offers a diverse range of applied animal science courses. Students can choose from a one-year diploma, a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree, or a short-term certificate. These pathways equip students with essential knowledge and skills for careers in the poultry and livestock sectors.

Hands-On Learning Initiatives

CCC is dedicated to enhancing practical learning experiences for its students. A recent acquisition of a historic barn, coupled with external funding aimed at rehabilitating the facility, will create opportunities for small-scale livestock demonstrations. The program prides itself on strong industry ties, regularly hosting field trips and collaborative events in partnership with organizations such as Case Farms, the Farm Bureau, 4-H, and Cooperative Extension poultry agents. These events attract between 15 and 30 students and often feature participation from key partners like N.C. Farm Link and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency, fostering invaluable connections with potential employers.

Increasing Student Engagement

Student participation is on the upswing, particularly highlighted by a consistent increase in membership within the Poultry Science Club. Graduates of the program are making their mark in the industry, securing positions at distinguished organizations such as Case Farms and Cooperative Extension. Notably, several alumni have chosen to further their education at reputable institutions, including North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University. This past academic year alone, CCC celebrated 17 graduates from the Applied Animal Science program.

Strengthening Recruitment Efforts

The funding from the USPOULTRY Foundation is set to amplify CCC’s recruitment and outreach activities. The grant will facilitate visits to middle and high schools, classroom presentations, participation in career fairs, and the creation of recruitment materials. Additionally, it will support mock poultry judging clinics, Animal Science Days, agritourism events, field trips, and supplementary activities within the poultry and egg industries to ignite interest in agricultural careers among students.

Commitment to Workforce Development

This grant aligns with the USPOULTRY Foundation’s overarching commitment to workforce development. In total, the Foundation has approved $331,292 in student recruiting grants, benefiting 27 colleges and universities nationwide with poultry science or industry-related programs. Such funding is vital for attracting and retaining students in poultry studies and is made possible through the generous support of companies, individuals, and families, as well as proceeds from the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production & Processing Expo.

For more information, visit the US Poultry & Egg Association.