October 29 – Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program seven-member team, the Dynamic Developers, represented all Extension program units at the recent National Impact Collaborative Summit in Indianapolis, IN earlier this month. The team’s project addressed an innovative idea within Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Since extension professionals in all program areas may encounter needs related to socioeconomic status, gender, race, and disabilities, among others, diversity, equity, and inclusion are crucial. The team’s project was both relevant and timely.
At the summit, 32 teams were represented, from 40 institutions and 40 subject matter experts were on hand, including 19 partners/supporting organizations. The Dynamic Developers won 2nd place in the Most Fundable Team Category in the Pitch Fest. Feedback and praises for the team’s work included comments like, “very innovative idea,” “the presenters spoke very clearly,” and “the presenters were extremely dynamic and energetic,” and “the idea could be supported by internal and external funds and partnerships.”
eXtension’s first National Impact Collaborative Summit included an Innovation Kit Workshop – a one-day event to learn the Innovation Process, and a Designathon Two – a two-day event to move project ideas forward into informed plans. The culminating event was a pitch fest judged by Innovation Stakeholders and other partners. The Impact Collaborative focuses on innovation around three primary areas:
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Food Production & Security
- Behavioral Health
Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program (PVAMU CEP) is a premier member institution within the eXtension Foundation. Another highlight at the summit, PVAMU’s Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Specialist, Angela Moore, was selected to serve as one of the summit facilitators.
Natriez Peterson
CED Extension Agent, Harris County
(713) 274-0988
nbpeterson@pvamu.edu
Dawn Burton
Health Coordinator
(713) 797-7032
deburton@pvamu.edu