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Students, faculty, staff, and community leaders gathered on Thursday, April 24th for the 8th annual Harold R. Benson Agricultural Luncheon. Hosted by Kentucky State University’s (KSU) College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. College of Agriculture Professor Dr. Kirk Pomper, named this event in honor of Harold R. Benson, KSU's extension administrator for 36 years and research director for 26. Benson’s accomplishments as a trailblazer go beyond the limits, as do the achievements of more than 100 KSU scholars, who were recognized for their research and dedication to agriculture during the event. 

KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo thanked the members of the General Assembly for their continued support and recognized the academic accomplishments of the students. He also highlighted the legacy of the late Dr. Harold R. Benson and his work's impact on the University's agricultural programs.  

"We're grateful to have such wonderful scholars and their continued excellence," stated President Akakpo, "And to our elected officials, especially our legislators, we extend gratitude for you taking the time to be in attendance today to celebrate KSU; the support we receive from you is phenomenal." 

Graduating KSU Scholars were recognized for their exceptional academic accomplishments. Among them were the Bachelor of Science May 2024 graduates: Tyler Anderson, Jansen Blair, Dyla Butler, Keith Chapman, Marshall Chapman, Simone Graham, Audi Hicks, Mia Jackson, Kyla Overstreet, Shemar Ritch, LaTerrica Spivey, Mark Tilford, and Daniel Woods. Alyson Whitted was acknowledged for achieving her Master of Science in Environmental Science. Cole Daleiden, Ashton Schardt, and Vincent Teye were celebrated as Master of Science in Aquaculture and Aquatic Science graduates. The distinguished faculty award recipients were Dr. George Antonious and Dr. Thomas Webster. 

This event also saw the presentation of the Benson-Atwood Medallion, which honors distinguished leaders and influencers for their remarkable contributions to the future of agriculture and community leadership. In addition to Dr. Benson, this esteemed award is also named in honor of Rufus B. Atwood, who was the longest-serving president of KSU from 1929 to 1962. 

This year's recipients of the Benson-Atwood Medallion were Warren Beeler and James (Jim) Coleman. Both have profoundly impacted the Commonwealth of Kentucky through their extraordinary commitment to the agricultural sector. From Beeler's diverse contributions as Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture to Coleman's transformative leadership at Coleman Crest Farm, their dedication and innovation have propelled agricultural advancement and fostered prosperity and sustainability in their communities.  

During their individual speeches, Mr. Beeler and Mr. Coleman both encouraged students to continue their education and careers in Agriculture. They also spoke of the importance of innovations occurring in the industry.  

"The program we are starting at Coleman Crest Farms will educate college students and give them real experience in farming," stated Mr. Coleman, "Coleman Crest Farms will provide housing and teach them how to farm, so we can continue to feed Kentuckians for generations." 

The KSU College of Agriculture’s Ag Research and Cooperative Extension programs proudly serve the Commonwealth of Kentucky with millions of dollars invested annually in research, extension, and over 30 academic degree seeking and certificate programs.