Dr. Jason Davis, assistant dean of the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences at the University of Mount Olive, was recognized for his awards and accomplishments in the field of agriculture. (UMO photo)
Dr. Jason Davis, assistant dean of the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences at the University of Mount Olive, has recently garnered significant recognition for his contributions to agriculture and education. This year has been marked by a series of prestigious awards highlighting his dedication, innovation, and impact on the agricultural community.
NC Granger of the Year: A Distinguished Honor
Davis was honored as the NC Granger of the Year by the North Carolina State Grange. This award is a significant milestone, highlighting his contributions to the agricultural sector and the Grange community. The Grange is a nationwide organization that supports and advocates for agricultural communities, and being recognized as the Granger of the Year is a testament to Davis’s dedication and impact.
In a notable achievement, Davis also graced the cover of the quarterly magazine of the North Carolina State Grange. Davis also serves as President of the Westbrook Grange in Newton Grove and serves as a State Grange officer.
NCNLA Outstanding Contribution to Horticulture Award
Davis received the North Carolina Nursery and Landscape Association’s Ken Powell Outstanding Contribution to Horticulture Award in January. Established in 2004, this award is given to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Association and the horticulture industry, with a particular focus on program development and execution.
Davis’s role as an educational consultant to the board, his authorship of over eight articles for the association’s magazine, and his work creating and gaining approval for the FPP-Future Plant Professional Credential for high school students were pivotal in earning this recognition. This award typically recognizes educators who have gone above and beyond in their contributions to the field, and Davis’s dedication to advancing horticulture education aligns perfectly with this criterion.
NCACTE Postsecondary Instructor Award
The North Carolina Association of Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has recognized Davis’s commitment to education and professional development. He received the ACTE Postsecondary Instructor Award, which honors educators who have significantly contributed to professional associations and career and technical education programs for youth and adults. Recipients of this award have demonstrated innovation, unique program development, and significant improvements in the field of career and technical education.
Davis’s work in enhancing agricultural education programs and his involvement in community and state-level initiatives have set him apart as a leader in his field.
Educational and professional background
Davis’s educational journey is rooted in a strong foundation in agricultural education. He earned his doctorate in agricultural education in 2017, a master’s degree in agricultural education in 2002, and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education with a minor in Horticultural Science in 1998, all from North Carolina State University. He also holds an associate of arts degree in general education from Sampson Community College, obtained in 1996.
Davis began his career as a field technician at East Coast Agri-Technologies, gaining practical experience in scouting crops for weeds, insects, and disease problems. He then transitioned into teaching, serving as an agricultural teacher at Hobbton High School from 1999 to 2005. During his tenure, he developed a comprehensive agricultural education program that significantly increased student enrollment and engagement. His innovative approaches and leadership led to numerous accolades, including the North Carolina Agri-Science Teacher of the Year award in 2005.
Following his time at Hobbton High School, Davis joined North Carolina State University as the State FFA coordinator, a role he held from 2005 to 2019. In this position, he coordinated numerous state conventions, leadership programs, and career development events, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in agricultural education.
In 2020, Davis joined the University of Mount Olive as the assistant dean of the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, where he continues to make significant contributions to the field. His responsibilities include developing relationships with community colleges, coordinating online degree programs, and overseeing outreach programming and field laboratories.
Published works and professional involvement
Davis is an accomplished author with several published works focusing on agricultural education and teacher training. His research and articles have appeared in esteemed publications such as the Journal of Agricultural Education and the Agricultural Education Magazine. His work often addresses the needs of agricultural educators and explores innovative approaches to enhance their effectiveness.
In addition to his published works, Davis is actively involved in numerous professional organizations. He is a member of the Association of Career & Technical Education, the North Carolina Agriculture Teachers Association, and the National FFA Alumni Association. He has held leadership positions in various organizations, including serving as the National President of the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education and the President of the National Council for Agricultural Education.
Looking ahead
Davis’s recent awards and accomplishments reflect his unwavering dedication to advancing agriculture and education. His innovative approaches, leadership, and commitment to excellence have set a high standard for educators and professionals in the field. As he continues to make significant contributions to the University of Mount Olive and the broader agricultural community, Davis remains a driving force for positive change and progress in the industry.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
