November 19 – As a fresh high school graduate, James Motton had no true commitment to the next step in his life until his parents encouraged him to attend Prairie View A&M University. Although he had no background or experience with agriculture, his dad ignited his interest to enter the College of Agriculture of Human Sciences because of PVAMU’s extensive dedication to the industry.

James MottonMotton attended PVAMU from 2007 to 2011 as an Agriculture Economics major. It was during these critical years that he gained all of his knowledge of agriculture and grew into his passion for helping others develop their sense of economics. His realization of the impact of agriculture on our everyday lives gave him a newfound appreciation. “From the time you wake up, to the time you go to sleep, from the clothes that you wear on your back to the food that you eat; that’s agriculture,” said Motton. As a student he was able to create long-lasting friendships and relationships with his classmates and professors that have helped him personally and in his career.

After obtaining his Masters in Community Development, Motton was able to secure a position with the Cooperative Extension Program as an Extension Agent for Liberty County. While in that role, he found value in the work he was doing in regards to teaching the community about economic development. It even allowed him to work on special projects with helping building the community back up from devastating situations. “I helped limited resource individuals learn about certain resources such as being a first-time home buyer, or starting small businesses. What I

[worked] heavily on [was] helping people recover from Hurricane Harvey such as guiding them to resources that [would] help them get back into their home or pay for furniture, utilities, rental assistance and things like that,” said Motton.

He highly recommends CAHS to anybody – no matter their background – because of the college’s diversity and the variety of majors to choose from.  Though he couldn’t see it before becoming a PVAMU student, agriculture has contributed so much to his life and all that he’s learned about building communities. “I didn’t see myself attending Prairie View, let alone working for Prairie View. I think the connection shifted over and came full circle.” Motton’s CAHS experience was unique in how he explored an idea that was initially foreign and was able give back to the institution which taught him. He has since moved on from his position as an Extension Agent, but will continue to pass on the knowledge earned at CAHS in his future endeavors.

Taelor Smith

 

Taelor Smith
Communications Specialist
tasmith@pvamu.edu
(936) 261-5155