July 2, 2018 – The College of Agriculture and Human Sciences (CAHS) new dean and director of land-grant programs, Gerard D’Souza, officially assumed leadership on July 1st. The employees and students readily anticipate his vision to help lead the College to its next stage of growth.

D’Souza brings an astounding amount of experience from his tenure at West Virginia University. His research in environmental economics, sustainable development, obesity and niche product development in regional and international settings will revolutionize the approach CAHS takes in transforming Prairie View by engaging the broader community and stakeholders through research, education, and outreach that are even more purposeful and impactful. An incredibly exciting time is nearing with him coming on board and helping ensure the College will deliver its plans for the people it serves. As an economist, D’Souza understands the challenges CAHS’ clientele face and can help address the unforeseen issues we need to solve as student enrollment and Texas communities grow.  As a leader, he possesses the skills to stand in front of the CAHS team, internal and external publics and inspire with the theme of “Ag is back: making it better, making it matter.” To his credit, he exemplifies the kind of thoughtfulness, empathy, determination, and curiosity expected of each employee and student; it resonates in his conversation.

Because PVAMU and the College have an abundance of heart and soul, D’Souza’s appointment offers almost limitless opportunities for the State in agriculture, human sciences, and extension. PVAMU’s newly elected president, Ruth J. Simmons, is transforming the university by engaging citizens of Texas with tremendous intellectual capital; whereas, D’Souza envisions CAHS as the beacon that shines a light on how the agricultural and human sciences contribute to greater food security and improved health outcomes.  Just as PVAMU ignited his passion, he sees the role of the College to nourish and sustain the intensity of its students and employees while deploying the considerable breadth and depth of the College’s expertise, and outreach to make communities and the world a better place.

What makes a great agricultural College? According to D’Souza, it’s revitalization and grassroots. He believes CAHS has all the ingredients to be in the conversation; it’s just a matter of mixing everything at the right speed. He states, “The farm should be the fourth leg by connecting strategic resources to the community which is critically important. By opening the farm for educational and demonstration tours, socials with neighbors and legislator visits, it provides a first-hand view of how modern agriculture improve the quality of life. Allowing the public a glimpse into what happens on the farm and asking questions, not only showcases the significance of land-grant programs but also develops trust in farming and engages our alumni and other stakeholders. As the Dean, “I must also find out the needs of the community and how to makes programs matter even more and their lives even better. Beyond classroom learning, students can utilize the farm and labs as living-learning laboratories. With research-based, experiential or work-earn-learn approaches, students train at the frontiers of knowledge.  These changes will not only keep them engaged, but increase the likelihood students will graduate on time, will contribute to an increasingly complex and high-tech agricultural value chain, and be the catalyst for economic innovation and growth.” The concept of self-interest and public responsibility can attract people to the university and form lasting bonds between the university, potential donors and collaborators to pool expertise and leverage resources.

In D’Souza’s first  90-days, he will meet a lot of people; so managing his boundless energy will be essential as well as his time. He is eager to get started-evident in his camps visits after being selected-  and is entering the job with open eyes and ears, great enthusiasm and optimism. He revels with confidence in his colleagues across disciplines, his team, and partners, yet prepared for the unexpected. He intends to benefit from alumni, students, and friends of CAHS to exchange knowledge and experiences.

Kelley Redmon

 

Kelley Redmon
Communications Specialist
karedmon-williams@pvamu.edu
(936) 261-5009