The Lead. Impact. Transform. Podcast with Dr. Jewel Bronaugh

about

This podcast series, proudly produced by the VSU College of Agriculture, is dedicated to exploring transformative leadership in the modern world, with a focus on the agriculture sector. Through straightforward conversations with industry leaders, Dr. Bronaugh leads discussions about their experiences, challenges, and strategies that have defined their leadership style. Listeners will gain clear insights and actionable advice, making this podcast essential for those aiming to strengthen their leadership skills or understand the dynamics of the agricultural industry.

Special guest for episode 1

Eyang Garrison, Majority Staff Director, U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry

A vision sparked during a high school field trip led Eyang Garrison to pursue a career within the halls of Congress. She has held pivotal policy roles on Capitol Hill, including her service as legislative assistant to Congresswoman Gwen Moore of Wisconsin and most recently as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to then-Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge of Ohio. On March 15, 2021, Garrison was appointed as the chief of staff to the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture in the Biden-Harris Administration, where she continues to make history.

On September 11, 2023, Eyang Garrison was announced as the new Majority Staff Director for U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, making her the first Staff Director of color in either the House or Senate Agriculture Committee. This incredible milestone highlights her significant impact on agriculture policy.

ABout Dr. Jewel bronaugh

Prior to returning to Virginia State University in July to become Senior Advisor to the Dean of the College of Agriculture, in May 2021, Dr. Jewel Bronaugh was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the 14th Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture USDA.

In 2018, Dr. Bronaugh was appointed the 16th Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by Governor Ralph Northam. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), appointed by Governor Terry McAuliffe and then-U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, in July 2015. Prior to her FSA appointment, she served as Dean of the College of Agriculture at Virginia State University (VSU) with oversight of Extension, Research and Academic Programs.

Dr. Bronaugh received her Ph.D. in Career and Technical Education from Virginia Tech. She is passionate about the advancement of youth leadership in agriculture. Dr. Bronaugh is from Petersburg, Virginia. She is married to Cleavon Bronaugh, a retired United States Army Veteran.