Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding recently visited Delaware Valley University to share updates on the Commonwealth’s new Center for Plant Excellence and the Center’s first grant opportunity.
The new grant program marks the Center’s first investment in advancing research, workforce development, and industry resilience.
Dr. Carla Garzon, holder of the K.H. Littlefield Endowed Professorship of Plant Science at DelVal, serves on the Center’s board as its hemp and specialty plant expert. Garzon will play a key role in evaluating grant applications.
“Support from this new grant program is essential for advancing the plant industry,” DelVal President Dr. Benjamin Rusiloski told Redding. “I am honored to welcome you and the Center for Plant Excellence to DelVal’s greenhouse complex where our students and staff have access to the latest greenhouse technology in the industry.”
“By combining forces of our strongest agriculture producers and research and teaching institutions, and by bringing cross-sector experts to the table to make strategic investments where the industry needs them most, we can help ensure that Pennsylvania stays cutting edge,” said Redding.
Under the leadership of Dr. Broc Sandelin, Dean of DelVal’s School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Garzon’s is the first endowed professorship at DelVal. Not only has she been published more than 20 times in academic journals, but she has mentored dozens of students in various research projects since joining the DelVal faculty in 2020.
“One of the most rewarding parts of my work is mentoring students who are eager to explore plant science,” said Garzon. “I’m honored to contribute my expertise in hemp and other specialty crops to a board that is dedicated to advancing research and preparing the next generation of scientists, growers, and innovators.”
Incoming students are drawn to DelVal to study under Garzon.
“Choosing to work with Dr. Garzon during my time at DelVal was the best decision I could have made for my career,” said graduate Vincent Petulla. “I made my biggest leaps in learning while researching, and she was a great role model and amazing professor with an abundance of knowledge.”
Garzon’s role with the Center for Plant Excellence reflects the expertise she brings to both her field and her students at DelVal. Through her research, teaching, and mentorship, she continues to strengthen DelVal’s reputation in plant science while inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Learn more about the state’s new Center for Plant Excellence.
