Auburn University Manrrs Chapter

This evening, MANRRS students took part in the 4th annual Kente ceremony. As graduation approaches, it has been a privilege to be part of their auburn journey.

Congratulations to the Auburn MANRRS students on your graduation. We appreciate the contributions you have made as members of the Auburn MANRRS chapter. We wish you continued success in your future endeavors. War Eagle always!

Please join me in congratulation to Omolola C. Kafi as she presented her PhD seminar Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026, at 2 pm. Title: Biochar-/lignin-containing microfibrillated cellulose fiber bio-composites for horticultural container applications.


WAR EAGLE!!

Happy Earth Day!

Let's congratulate Justin Anderson on successfully defending his thesis he will be getting a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics.

"Heirs’ property is land that is jointly owned by multiple family members as it is passed down through generations. While heirs’ property is a significant issue in the southern region of the United States, it is also a national issue present in all states. Heirs’ property can limit generation of income from the land. In this study I explore how agricultural sales relate to the prevalence of heirs’ property in rural counties in the Southeastern region of the U.S. Data
are obtained from the USDA Census of Agriculture, Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Census Bureau, and individual property records. Along with recognition in agricultural policy, cooperative extension is discussed as a vehicle to help heirs’ property owners address their land ownership issues and transition into agricultural production. By examining these factors, this research highlights opportunities for future economic development and generation of income and wealth for rural families."

The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) recently gathered to celebrate excellence, service, and leadership at the 2026 CFWE Awards Ceremony and Reception.

Students, student organizations, faculty, staff, and alumni were honored for their outstanding achievements and dedication to the college’s mission. The evening was filled with pride, recognition, and community—along with a special appearance by Aubie that brought even more energy to the celebration!

We are especially proud to celebrate members of our CFWE MANRRS Chapter, who continue to represent with excellence:

One of our students was recognized as an Undergraduate Research Fellow. India Bayles.
Another student was honored as Graduate Student of the Year Temitope Ruth Folorunso.

Our chapter also had the opportunity to introduce both past and future executive board members, highlighting the strength, leadership, and continuity within our organization

Thank you for to the students we see you showing up in research, leadership, scholarship, and impact across the college.

From recognition to representation—our students continue to lead, achieve, and make their mark. 💙🧡

# aumanrrs

Congratulations to Alexia Alford on successfully defending her M.S. thesis! 💙🧡

Alexia presented her research, “Exploring CRISPR-Based Detection of Lecanosticta acicola in Loblolly Pine: From DNA Extraction to Field-Forward Diagnostics for Brown Spot Needle Blight,” showcasing innovative work that bridges science, technology, and real-world application.

Her work contributes to advancing early detection methods for brown spot needle blight—an important step in protecting and managing loblolly pine systems.

Alexia has also been an active member of MANRRS for the past two years, and it has been exciting to see her growth both academically and professionally. She is currently working with the City of Auburn alongside CFWE alumnus Orum Snow, continuing to build meaningful connections between education, career, and community.

And in a true full-circle moment, Orum was there to support her during her thesis defense—an example of the very network and community we strive to build.

This milestone reflects months of research, dedication, and perseverance, and it was exciting to see her confidently present and defend her work.

Moments like this remind us of the impact our students are making—not just in the classroom, but in the field and beyond.

Congratulations again, Alexia! We are proud of you and excited to see what’s next on your journey. 🌱

We are proud to celebrate CFWE Alumnus Mr. Orum Snow ‘22, who was recognized during the Black Alumni Awards Ceremony for his outstanding achievements and contributions. 💙🧡

I had the privilege of teaching Orum in Urban Forestry and supporting him along his journey.

Today, he serves as an Urban Forestry Specialist for the City of Auburn, leading important work in our community and continuing to make an impact in the field.

But what stood out most wasn’t just the recognition—it was what he did next.

After the brunch and before the awards ceremony , Orum took the time to support one of our Junior MANRRS students with their Eagle Scout project.

That moment speaks volumes.

It reflects a commitment to service, mentorship, and giving back—the very values that continue to shape the next generation.

From the classroom to career—and now giving back—this is what impact looks like.

Proud doesn’t even begin to cover it.

This weekend was more than an event—it was a full-circle moment.

We welcomed Black alumni back into the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment to connect with our Auburn MANRRS students—bridging generations, sharing stories, and reminding our students of what is possible.

For many of our alumni, this experience looked different during their time at Auburn. Different buildings. Different hallways. No MANRRS chapter to call home.

But the legacy? The perseverance? The excellence? That has always been the same.

Today, MANRRS provides a space for our students to build community, develop professionally, and see themselves reflected in the field—and it was powerful to witness alumni who helped pave the way now pour back into a space that didn’t exist for them, but still reflects their impact. 💙🧡

To stand alongside those who once walked this journey, and now support the next generation… that’s what this work is all about.

We celebrated our students, honored their leadership, and created space for real connection—moments that can’t be replicated, only experienced.

CFWE MANRRS Chapter Awards
This year, we had the opportunity to recognize outstanding students whose commitment, leadership, and service continue to strengthen our chapter and community.

The All In (Right Hand) Award
(In Honor of Mr. Ernest E. Boyd ‘76)
Awarded to the student who is consistently all in—showing up, stepping up, and moving with purpose. A trusted presence, always ready to support, lead, and do the work. Reflects perseverance, presence, and paving the way, was presented to Sheniqua Glover

The Backbone (Steady Force) Leadership Award
(In Honor of Ken Day & Dana Little)
Awarded to the student who serves as the foundation of the chapter—reliable, consistent, and always showing up.
Honors those who quietly—but powerfully—hold things together, was presented to Sebastian Gomez Maldonado.

The Rising to the Moment Leadership Award
(In Honor of Dr. Brenda Allen)
Awarded to the student who demonstrates leadership when it matters most—rising under pressure, communicating effectively, and keeping the team connected.
Reflects active leadership and stepping up when called was presented to Camaya Doxie.

The Consistency & Commitment Award
(In Honor of Ms. Dana Y. McReynolds Stone ‘94)
Awarded to the student who exemplifies steady dedication and long-term commitment. Honors those who may not always be seen—but are always there, was presented to Temitope Ruth Folorunso

The Advisor’s Choice Award (Special Recognition)
Awarded to a student whose impact, service, and willingness to step up did not go unnoticed. Reflects heart, initiative, and showing up when it mattered most was presented to Christopher Williams.

Each award represents a different way leadership shows up—and this year, our students showed up in every way.