Recently, the World Food Prize Foundation announced that Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, currently serving as the acting chief scientist of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), joined the Council of Advisors. She also serves concurrently as the administrator of the Agricultural Research Service, USDA’s principal in-house research agency.
On the Council, Dr. Jacobs-Young will advise and guide World Food Prize leadership on the implementation of foundation programs. Other responsibilities will include participating in appointing members of the World Food Prize Laureate Selection Committee and endorsing the committee’s choice of a new Laureate each year.
“I am honored to join the Council of Advisors. I look forward to bringing my passion for science and innovation to global efforts to address food security and train the next generation of agricultural professionals,” said Dr. Jacobs-Young in a statement.
The World Food Prize Foundation announced today that Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young has joined the Council of Advisors. Read More - https://t.co/8ewhCWG5fD. #FoodPrize21 @USDA_ARS @USDAScience pic.twitter.com/6IFBcBfohs
— World Food Prize Foundation (@WorldFoodPrize) June 10, 2021
Dr. Jacobs-Young received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in wood and paper science from North Carolina State University. She is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, an If/Then Ambassador for AAAS, and a Presidential Rank Award winner.
At the 25th annual Women of Color STEM Conference, Dr. Jacobs-Young was one of several USDA professionals honored. She received the Career Achievement in Government Award. This award goes to senior-level professionals in recognition of their leadership in driving the standard for excellence in their organization.
