Annual/Termination Reports:

[02/27/2008] [05/27/2009] [10/27/2010]

Report Information

Participants

Cintia Aguilar - North Carolina State University; Don Albrecht - Western Rural Development Center; Toni Alexander - Auburn University; Cesar Asuaje - University of Florida; Bo Beaulieu - SRDC - Mississippi State University; Andrew Behnke - North Carolina State University; Barbara Brown - Clemson University Extension Service; Nancy Calix -Kentucky State University; Jannie Carter - Alabama A&M University; Donnie Cook - Alabama A&M University; Sam Cordes - Purdue University; Art Cosby - SSRC - Mississippi State University; Ron Cox, Jr. - Oklahoma State University; DeShon Cromartie - North Carolina A&T State University; Deborah Cross - Louisiana State University/LSU Ag Center; Jean Dwyer - Alabama A&M University; Frank Farmer - University of Arkansas; Thelma Feaster - North Carolina A&T State University; Jan Flora - Iowa State University; Sharon Gibson - The University of Georgia; Isabel Hanson - Pennsylvania State University; Joan Jacobsen - Texas A&M University; Stephen H. Kolison, Jr. - Tennessee State University; Irene K. Lee - University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff; Juana Macias - Alabama Cooperative Extension System; Sally Maggard - USDA-CSREES; Denise Mainville - Virginia Tech University; Ruben Martinez - Michigan State University; Stacey McCullough - University of Arkansas; William Molnar - Clemson University; Reuben Moore - Mississippi State University; Maria Navarro - The University of Georgia; Ariel Ramirez - University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez; James Riddell - Virginia Tech University; Monica Rosas - Mississippi State University; Rogelio Saenz - Texas A&M University; Jenell Sargent - Tennessee State University; Julia Storm - North Carolina State University; Kathleen Tajeu - Auburn University; Ulises Toledo - West Virginia State University; Crystal Tyler-Mackey - Virginia Tech University; Tony Tyson - University of Georgia; Brenda Vander Mey - Clemson University; Antonella Vitale - Mississippi State University; Michele Vitale - Auburn University; Rosa Vozzo - Mississippi State University; Jake Walker - Mississippi State University; Andrew Zekeri - Tuskegee University

Brief Summary of Minutes

BRIEF SUMMARY OF MINUTES OF ANNUAL MEETING:

FEBRUARY 11, 2008

General Organizational Meeting began at 12:00pm on Monday, February 11th, 2008 in Atlanta GA.

1. Welcome and Introductions: Bo Beaulieu
Introductions (notes taken on participants' current projects for Latino audiences) and discussion of current activities resulted in achieving preliminary assessment of current resources and assets.

2. Review of Meeting Agenda/Additions to Agenda: Bo Beaulieu
A motion was passed to approve meeting agenda

3. Administrative Advisor's Report: Reuben Moore

**What is a SERA (Southern Extension and Research Activity)?

--Information exchange groups of researchers and extension specialists sharing a particular interest or issue area; provide a functionally integrated forum to coordinate joint activities to address stakeholder needs.

--SERA's are approved by Directors of Extension and Research Stations based on the proposal submitted. SERA-37 is approved for the time period: Oct 2007 - 2012.

**Roles and responsibilities of SERA members

--Provide leadership and expertise in collaborative projects and information exchange

--Through group efforts, increase the capacity of Extension and Research efforts

--Produce Extension and Research products that are stronger due to collaborative efforts

**How to become a formal member of SERA-37

--Register at NIMMS (National Information Management and Support System) web site: http://nimss.umd.edu/

**The leadership structure of SERA
--Administrative Advisor(s):

--Extension Advisor: William McCarty (MIS) - Assistant Director/State Program Leader - ANR (unable to attend)

--Mississippi State University
Research Advisor: Reuben Moore (MIS) - Associate Director, Mississippi State University Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station

--CSREES Representative: Sally W. Maggard, National Program Leader for Centers for Rural Development, USDA-CSREES

--Group should elect a chair, chair-elect and secretary.

--Organizational support from Southern Rural Development Center (SRDC) and the Social Science Research Center (SSRC) of Mississippi State University.

**See meeting handout for more detail.

4. Selection of Nomination Committee
Bo Beaulieu, Sharon Gibson, Reuben Moore and Art Cosby served on the Nomination Committee to identify candidates for Chair, Chair-Elect and Secretary.

5. Review of SERA-37 Proposal: Bo Beaulieu
See: http://nimss.umd.edu/homepages/home.cfm?trackID=9477; (SERA-37 project page on NIMSS web site).

6. Discussion of Process for Organizing Task Forces around SERA-37 Objectives: Bo Beaulieu
Group divided themselves into the following Groups:

--Administration

--Family and Youth

--Agriculture and Natural Resources

--Community Development

Each group began brainstorming needs and assets with regard to the following objectives:

--Communication

--Existing Resources

--Gaps (Extension and Research)

--Products

--Training Programs
Group representatives provided reports of these group discussions on the next day.
Meeting adjourned at 5:15PM

FEBRUARY 12, 2008

Meeting reconvened called to order at 8:30 AM

7. Partnership Opportunity with SERA-19 group and the North Carolina Center for International Understanding (NC CIU): Julia Storm

***Presentation (handout distributed) and discussion of draft proposal to extend immersion training model developed by NC CIUs Latino Initiative to several states in the Southern Region

***Shown video from NC CIU about the Latino Initiative

8. Election of SERA-37 Executive Committee: Bo Beaulieu

Co-Chair: Andrew Behnke, NC State University and Cesar Asuaje, University of Florida;
Co-Chair-Elect: Cintia Aguilar, NC State University and Sharon Gibson, University of Georgia;
Co-Secretary: Nancy Calix, Kentucky State University and Julia Storm, NC State University;
A vote was unanimously in support of this slate of officers.

9. Group Presentations:
1) Administration
-Develop specific strategies to be developed for implementation
-Diversity should become 3rd in value with efficiency and effectiveness as 1st and 2nd
-Properly addressing policies for local providers
-Integration needed due to importance of cohesiveness
-1/3 of Latinos are recent immigrants and Latinos have also been here for a long time. SERA should recognize this population as heterogeneous. Within this spectrum, we need to be individual-oriented

2) Families and Youth Communications
- Barriers Include: Language & Cultural Literacy
" Buy-In (Admin, Faculty, Local)
" Trust  Limited Entrée (No real Latino face on Cooperative Extension)
" We need to find a way to get past One-Time Events and do comprehensive programming
" Child Care, Transportation, & Time Conflicts
" Lack of Awareness of Products
- Gaps & Opportunities for Change:
" Clear Benchmarks of Demand, Engagement, & Outcomes
" Culturally Appropriate Tools & Measures (any research on program delivery?)
" Effective/ Engaging Products (Child focus and focus on entire families)
" Collaboration / New Local Buy-In (Faith-based, Media, Social-Service)
" Incentives and/or Policy Promoting Latino Programs
" New Hires with Latino Focus
" Effectively engaging---not just handouts
- Resource Assessment and Future Products
" Repositories (Agent Training and Information; DVDs, Videos, & Handouts
" Multicultural centers may help with inclusion rather than Latino centers
" Evaluation and Assessment tools (# of Resources & Usage Data; Baseline to Assess Gain & Links w/ Other Latino-Serving Orgs.; Info on Evidence Based Programs)
" Cultural Competency Seminars (Enhance our ability to serve)

3) Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR)
-The community changes and programming should focus on these changes.
-Need to have a person in the field to design effective/efficient program development.
-Ext. agents may have skills but not the language to communicate.
-program development should be designed in accordance with current analyses
-change in one policy may change the programs entirely; therefore, we need to stay updated
-networking is important in particular areas.
-Take advantage of recognized leaders
-penetrate network to communicate effectively

4) Community Development:
-Encourage dialogue on effectively integrating Latinos
-Professional organizations can develop dialogue.
-Make resources readily available
-Use information that already exists and build upon this
-Develop an Academy for Extension (A learning academy)
-It will be useful to collaborate with universities in Mexico, particularly on immigration issues.

10. Break and Executive Committee meeting

11. Building a Plan of Work for the Coming Year: Andrew Behnke and Cesar Asuaje

Andrew and Cesar presented information on Task Force assignments. Participants divided into 5 groups (below) and were asked to: Develop a logic model, a 6-week timeline for next steps, and to schedule a conference call.

12. Group presentations:
1) Website (Group leader: Monica Rosas, Mississippi State University) should be ready by March 25. Plans made for a logo, and a easy to manage website to spread work about SERA and facilitate our communication as a group. Contact: Monica.Rosas@SSRC.MsState.Edu
2) Training (Group Leader: Stacey McCullough, University of Arkansas) was seen from the perspective of audience needs. Excellent plans started to create training on regional and national scale. Contact: smccullough@uaex.edu
3) Inventory (Group Leader: Ron Cox, Oklahoma State University) suggested to create a catalog system. It is recommended that specific list serves be kept in addition to the general listserve. Contact: r.cox@okstate.edu
4) Immersion Program  (Group Leader: Julia Storm, NCSU) multistate exchanges and binational exchanges. There are different models that are in place. We can tap into different resources and consider corporate partners and community service organizations. Contact: julia_storm@ncsu.edu
5) Research -(Group Leader: Art Cosby, Mississippi State University) The challenge is that input in this group is small. Briefs can be done on demographics and issues. Look at what has already been done such as the role of the Catholic Church. Possibility of a webcast with a speaker from Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (she needs to be confirmed!) Funds exist to do a survey related to Hispanic growth in the US, which can be made available to group. Contact: arthur.cosby@ssrc.msstate.edu

13. ACTION ITEMS:
§ All members:
o Visit NIMSS web site http://nimss.umd.edu/ and register.
o Participate in task forces.
§ Task force leaders:
o Submit group members names and e-mails to Andrew Behnke (andrew_behnke@ncsu.edu).
o Schedule a conference call before April 5 with group members.
o Complete development of logic model and timeline of next steps for task force and assign responsibilities.
o Begin taking steps to accomplish projects decided on as a group.
§ Executive Committee:
o Schedule regular conference calls.
o Investigate how to update the listing of SERA-37 participants on the NIMSS web site.
o Update the SERA-37 participant list; note those who attended the Atlanta meeting and provide a break down of Task Force leaders and members.
o Be in regular communication with Task force leaders and membership.
o Compile Task Force reports into the SERA-37 Plan of Work.

14. Meeting adjourned at 2:00 PM

Accomplishments

1. Establish and facilitate dialogue and information exchange among land-grant representatives from the South dealing with key Hispanic issues in the region. This will be achieved via regularly scheduled conference calls, annual face-to-face meetings, and web-based conferencing.<br /> <br /> 2. Catalogue the research and Extension resources existing within the region and beyond that focus on issues associated with the expanding growth of Hispanics in urban or rural areas. In addition, facilitate access by land-grant faculty in the region to this important repository of information. This would be done by creating a website that would be a portal to a variety of electronic-based research, statistical information, educational modules/products, and policy resources of value to the SERA team. The development and distribution of an electronic newsletter that provides timely updates on research, outreach, and policy products of relevance to Southern land-grant universities and- they constituents would be pursued as well. <br /> <br /> 3. Identify the existing gaps in the research and/or Extension resources that focus on important Hispanic issues in the South, and seek to mobilize land-grant faculty in the region to address these gaps. <br /> <br /> 4. Identify, analyze, and prepare a series of information briefs that profile the demographic, educational, social, and economic changes associated with the regions Hispanic population, and outline the important implications associated with these trends. These products  which would build on the applied research being conducted by LGU faculty in the South and nation  would be distributed to land-grant administrators and faculty, leaders government leaders at all levels (local, state, regional, and federal), community-based organizations, philanthropic groups, and other interested organizations and individuals. <br /> <br /> 5. Design and sponsor training program(s) that introduce and expand the capacity of Extension faculty in the region to work with, and deliver educational programs targeted to, the Souths expanding Hispanic population. These training activities will be carried out in collaboration with the Southern Rural Development Center<br /> <br /> Current milestones leading to the accomplishment of these objectives:<br /> <br /> A. Developed a logic model for each of the five specific taskforce teams with realistic timeline to help accomplish each groups goals.<br /> <br /> B. Ongoing development of SERA-37 website to facilitate communication with Southern land-grant university faculty, staff, and partners.<br /> <br /> C. Developing training ideas and Power Point presentations. <br /> <br /> D. Creating assessment tools and inventory and data management system<br /> <br /> E. Discussing options for multistate exchanges and binational exchanges to provide for immersion experiences for Southern land-grant university faculty, staff, and partners.<br /> <br /> F. Created basic research agenda for SERA-37 and ideas for informational briefs.<br /> <br /> G. Developed a Logo to market the initiative.<br /> <br /> H. Created an updated listserve with over 88 active members.<br />

Publications

Peer reviewed Publications:<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (in press). Expanding the Latino market niche: Developing capacity and meeting critical needs. Journal of Extension.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., MacDermid, S. M., Coltrane, S. L., Parke, R. D., Widaman, K. F., & Duffy, S. A. (in press). Family cohesion in the lives of Mexican American and European American parents. Journal of Marriage and the Family<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., Taylor, B., & Parra Cardona, J. R. (in press). I hardly understand English, but&: Mexican origin fathers describe their commitment as fathers despite the challenges of immigration. Journal of Comparative Family Studies. <br /> <br /> Extension Publications:<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2008). Conjunotos Familiares de Exito (Successful Family Meetings). NC Cooperative Extension Family Support Series, FCS 521-06.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2008). Pandillas. Que Pueden Hacer los Padres al Respecto? (Gangs. What Can Parents Do?). NC Cooperative Extension Family Support Series, FCS 521-05.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (in press). Cómo Apoyar a su Adolescente con su Tarea (How to Help your Teen with their Homework). NC Cooperative Extension Family Support Series, FCS 521-04.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (in press). Aplicación de la Ley (Law Enforcement in the US). NC Cooperative Extension Family Support Series, FCS 521-03.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Aprender  Haciendo: Ayudando los jovenes a prepararse para el siglo 21 (Learning by Doing: Helping youth to prepare for the 21st century). Spanish-language Poster to introduce parents to North Carolina 4-H Programs available to youth.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Cómo Ayudarle a su Hijo Tener Exito en la Escuela (How to Help your Child Be Successful in U.S. Schools). Spanish-language Poster teaching how to talk to teachers and let parents wishes be known.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). El Sistema Escolar de Carolina del Norte (Navigating The N.C. School System). Spanish-language Poster teaching how the basic laws and requirements of N.C schools. <br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Medidas de Seguridad Personal (Measures for Personal and Community Safety). Spanish-language Poster teaching how to use 9-1-1, recognize fraud, and avoid identity theft.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Seguridad en Su Hogar (Safety in your Home). Spanish-language Poster teaching how to reduce the risk of falls, burns, poisoning (chemical, carbon monoxide), and improve household air quality.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). RCP - Resuscitación Cardiopulmonar Para Adultos y Para Niños (CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Adults and Children). Spanish-language Poster teaching the basics of CPR for adults and children.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). RCP - Resuscitación Cardiopulmonar Para los Bebés (CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Babies). Spanish-language Poster teaching the basics of CPR for babies.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Seguridad Contra Incendios (Safety in Time of Fire). Spanish-language Poster teaching how to prevent fires, and what to do in the case of a fire.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Qué Hacer Cuando Alguien Se Está Atragantando? (What Do I Do if Someone is Choking?). Spanish-language Poster teaching the Heimlich Manuever.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (2007). Técnicas Seguras para Levantar (Safe Lifting Techniques). Spanish-language Poster teaching how to lift heavy objects safely, and ways to avoid back injuries at work and at home.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A.O. with Aguilar, C. Viaje a La Universida (Voyage to the University). Large Spanish and English maps describing the pathway to college.<br /> <br /> Presentations:<br /> <br /> Asuaje, C. (2007). Teaching Methodologies for Bilingual Pesticides and Farm Safety Trainings. The abstract was presented at the 2007 National Institute Farm Safety Conference. The presentation provided information about the teaching methodologies used to train non-English speaking Hispanic agriculture workers. British Columbia, Canada, 2007.<br /> <br /> Asuaje, C. (2007). Worker Protection Standard, Portable Central Location Project. Submitted abstract and accepted. The abstract was presented at the 2007 Pesticide Worker Safety and Health Conference sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency. The information presented is related to a portable central location prototype developed by the University of Florida to provide alternatives on how to comply with pesticide information requirements in farms with multiple field workers entries. Washington DC.<br /> <br /> Asuaje, C. (2007). Safety and Cultural Diversity. This was at invitation of the National Pork Board to provide information about how to improve job safety communication by understanding Hispanic workers cultural values and norms. Kansas City, Missouri.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (March, 2008). Why Home Visits? Making home visits a part of your comprehensive services to Latino parents and families. East Coast Migrant Head Start Conference. Durham, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., with Bonaparte, F. (February, 2008). Reaching Out to Latino Parents and Families. 3-hour National Teleconference. Raleigh, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., & Urieta, D. (March, 2008). Cultural Sensitivity for Working with the Latino Population of North Carolina. Three hour presentation made at 2008 Statewide Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect: Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina. Winston Salem, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., & Aguilar, C. (February, 2008). Dropout Prevention and College Access Programming: Together for a Better Education Program. Presentation made at 2008 North Carolina College Access Conference. Greensboro, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Weaver, D., Behnke, A. O., & Aguilar, C. (February, 2008). Dropout Prevention and College Access Programming: Together for a Better Education Program. Presentation made at 2008 North Carolina College Access Conference. Greensboro, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (April, 2008). Fathers' Count: Why involving men really matters and how to be successful doing it! Presentation to be made at the 2008 North Carolina Head Start Conference. Greensboro, North Carolina. <br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (December, 2007). Strengthening Fathers, Strengthening Families. Day-long Training Seminar for North Carolina Head Start Hispanic and Family Initiatives. Raleigh, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O. (December, 2007). Parents as Mentors (Juntos para una Mejor Educación) Program. Presentation made twice at 2007 North Carolina Youth and Family Summit In-service. Durham, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., & Aguilar, C. (December, 2007). Together for a Better Education Program. Presentation made at 2007 North Carolina Youth and Family Summit. Durham, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Jones, S., Behnke, A. O., & DeBord, K. (December, 2007). Student Success in the 21st Century. Presentation made at 2007 North Carolina Youth and Family Summit. Durham, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A.O. (November, 2007). Culturally Competent Child Care in the 21st Century. Keynote presentation made at West North Carolina Child Care Conference. Statesville, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A.O. (November, 2007). Unanswered Questions about Diversity in Child Care. Panel presentation made at West North Carolina Child Care Conference. Statesville, North Carolina.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A.O., Plunkett, S., & Bamaca, M. (October, 2007). An ecological understanding of immigrant Latino adolescents depression: Neighborhood, parent, and individual factors. On New Shores: Understanding Immigrant Children in North America. Guelf, Canada.<br /> <br /> Martin, S., Behnke, A. O., Ebata, A. Nelson, P., Ontai-Grzebik, L., Weigel, D. (November, 2007). Opportunities to Evaluate an On-line, Multi-state eXtension Parent Program. Roundtable discussion held at the 2007 conference of the National Council on Family Relations. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. <br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., & Parra Cardona, J. R. (November, 2007). Padres Fuertes: Mexican origin fathers descriptions of their parent/child relationships in relation to the challenges of immigration. Presentation made at the 2007 conference of the National Council on Family Relations. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. <br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., Ebata, A., Martin, S., Nelson, P., Ontai-Grzebik, L., Weigel, D. (November, 2007). Innovation in Evaluation in the Just In Time Parenting Program. Poster at the 2007 conference of the National Council on Family Relations. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., Trujillo, A., & Barnes, N. (2007). Education Forum. Program on parent involvement in their youths education. Broadcast on Oct 28th on UNC-TV.<br />

Impact Statements

1. A framework was established for extension programming and research studies on Hispanic communities in the United States. The SERA-37 group is expanding its networking capacity and has grown to 88 registered members and is involving 20 major Universities and several project programs targeting Hispanics.
2. A common ground analysis and commitment was reached during the first SERA-37 meeting to create a formal structure capable to provide valuable information to help educators, researchers, community development specialist, government and others professionals on how to work with Hispanic communities effectively.
3. As a result of the first conference, we were asked by NACDEP to play the key role in organizing the session at the Fall 2008 Galaxy Meeting dealing on the subject of "immigration." Thanks to our teams efforts, we now have a formal session scheduled for Galaxy that will titled: "Stirring the Melting Pot: Embracing the Challenges of Immigration."
4. As a result of collaborative efforts of the SERA-37 training group task force and the pesticide coordinator office of North Carolina State University the first multi-state pesticide certification training program in Spanish was delivered in two counties in North Carolina. The program was conducted by Cesar Asuaje an extension specialist from the University of Florida with the support of Dr. Wayne Buhler the North Carolina State University pesticide coordinator and the department of Agriculture. The program was deigned to transfer valuable information on teaching techniques, outreach strategies and program marketing techniques used to target Hispanic agricultural workers.
5. The program was a success with about 50 Hispanic agricultural workers attending the 4 training programs. Several meetings and activities were conducted to analyze the current situation and program development strategies to improve extension program activities targeting Hispanic agricultural workers in North Carolina. The potential to use this multi-state program in other states is great, and will enhance and strengthen professional development and job safety of Hispanic agricultural workers.

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Report Information

Participants

70 attending annual conference

Laura Booth Alabama Cooperative Extension System;
Jannie Carter Alabama Cooperative Extension Initiative;
Donnie Cook Alabama A&M University;
Jean Dwyer Alabama A&M University;
Marcus Garner Alabama A&M University;
Chinella Henderson Alabama A&M University;
Juana Macias Alabama A&M University;
Donna Shanklin Alabama Cooperative Extension System;
Gaines Smith Alabama Cooperative Extension Initiative;
Kathleen Tajeu Alabama Cooperative Extension System;
Paul Waddy Alabama Cooperative Extension System;
Tamara Warren Alabama A&M University;
Carol Whatley Alabama Cooperative Extension System;
Reyna Alvarez University of Arkansas;
Celia Boon University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service;
Shannon Caldwell University of Arkansas;
Stacey McCullough University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture - Extension;
Cesar Asuaje University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Science;
Bryan Fluech Florida Sea Grant/ University of Florida Extension;
Nicole Walker University of Florida /IFAS Polk Co. Cooperative Extension;
Bridget Washburn Florida Dept of Environmental Protection;
Jenna Andrews University of Georgia;
Jorge Atiles University of Georgia;
Karen Atkins University of Georgia Cooperative Extension;
Ellen Bauske UGA Center for Urban Agriculture;
Jenna Brown University of Georgia;
Willie Chance University of Georgia Extension;
Sharon Gibson University of Georgia;
Steven Gibson University of Georgia;
Maria Navarro University of Georgia;
Joan Pittman Office of Institutional Diversity, University of Georgia;
Vanessa Smith University of Georgia;
Sam Cordes Purdue University Center for Regional Development- Indiana;
Rina Castillo Louisiana State University AgCenter;
Deborah Cross Louisiana State University AgCenter;
Miguel Gutierrez Louisiana State University AgCenter;
Pam Monroe Professor & Director, Louisiana Poverty Initiative;
Michelle Rzepka Louisiana State University AgCenter;
Jeanette Tucker Louisiana State University AgCenter;
Mercedes Saint Elin Alianzas/University of Missouri Extension/UMKC;
Bo Beaulieu Southern Rural Development Center;
Frida Bonaparte Mississippi State University;
Reuben Moore MAFES;
Monica Rosas Social Science Research Center;
Rosa Vozzo Mississippi State University;
Rachel Welborn Southern Rural Development Center;
Cintia Aguilar NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension;
Andrew Behnke NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension;
Jayne Cubilla NC Cooperative Extension Service;
Marguerite Farley Onslow County Partnership for Children, North Carolina;
Dee Furlough NC Cooperative Extension;
Art Latham NC Cooperative Extension;
Cliff Ruth NC Cooperative Extension;
Molly Sandfoss NC Cooperative Extension;
Denise Sherrill NC Cooperative Extension;
Julia Storm NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension;
Dede Nelson NC State University;
Diana Urieta Prevent Child Abuse NC;
Donna Weaver College Foundation of North Carolina, University of North Carolina;
Ron Cox Oklahoma State University;
Mario Magaña Oregon State University, 4-H Youth Development Education;
Harry Crissy Clemson University  South Carolina;
Bill Molnar Clemson University  South Carolina;
Barbara Canada Tennessee State University;
Rita Fleming Tennessee State University Agriculture and Consumer Science;
Jonell Hinsey Tennessee State University;
Leslie Speller-Henderson Tennessee State University;
Joan Jacobsen Texas AgriLife Extension Service;
Josefa Pena Texas AgriLife Extension Service;
Magda Bullock Virginia Cooperative Extension;

Brief Summary of Minutes

BRIEF SUMMARY OF MINUTES OF ANNUAL MEETING:

The Future of Latino/Hispanic Programming in the South
2009 SERA-37 Annual Conference via video conference
March 23, 2009 from 2:00  5:00 p.m. (Eastern)

1. Welcome and Introductions: Cesar Asuaje
§ Introductions of all participants in each virtual site.

2. Review of Meeting Agenda/Additions to Agenda: Andrew Behnke

3. Annual Business Meeting:
§ Stated objectives of SERA-37 and objectives for the meeting  Andrew Behnke
§ Review of accomplishments of SERA-37 - Andrew Behnke
§ What SERA-37 needs to accomplish in 2009 and beyond- Andrew Behnke
§ Creating an involved membership- Sharon Gibson

4. New Four Year Strategic Plan Discussion: Julia Storm
§ Overview of proposed plan of task force reconfiguration- Julia Storm
§ Executive council/ webinar task force strategic plan  Andrew Behnke
§ Training task force strategic plan Stacey McCullough
§ Immersion task force strategic plan - Julia Storm
§ Inventory taskforce strategic plan - Ron Cox
§ Research integration consultant group strategic plan  Andrew Behnke
§ Questions Julia Storm
§ Breakout to discuss ideas about a specific task force  All
§ Gather back together and discuss ideas Julia Storm

5. How to stay connected and focused:
" Set up taskforce meetings
" Set up subsequent meeting

6. Meeting adjourned at 5:00 PM


ACTION ITEMS:
§ All members:
o Visit NIMSS web site http://nimss.umd.edu/ and register.
o Participate in new task forces.
o Begin taking steps to accomplish projects decided on as a group.

§ Invitation to join New Task Forces:
o Submit group members names and e-mails to Rachel Welborn (rachelw@srdc.msstate.edu).

Accomplishments

1. Establish and facilitate dialogue and information exchange among land-grant representatives from the South dealing with key Hispanic issues in the region. This was achieved via regularly scheduled conference calls, annual face-to-face meetings, and web-based conferencing.<br /> <br /> 2. Catalogue the research and Extension resources existing within the region and beyond that focus on issues associated with the expanding growth of Hispanics in urban or rural areas. In addition, facilitate access by land-grant faculty in the region to this important repository of information. This resource compendium has been placed on the SERA-37 website for all to access. See: http://sera37.wordpress.com/taskforces/inventory-taskforce/<br /> <br /> 3. Developed an in-depth survey of 917 Extension professionals in the South with a focus on Extensions Role in Serving Latinos. Data analysis is still underway but this data from 13 states points to very important gaps in services and ways that those can be remedied. <br /> <br /> 4. Designed and sponsored a training program that introduce and expand the capacity of Extension faculty in the region to work with, and deliver educational programs targeted to, the Souths expanding Hispanic population. <br /> <br /> 5. Developed strategic direction for next 4 years.<br /> <br /> <br /> Current milestones leading to the accomplishment of these objectives:<br /> <br /> A. Ongoing development of SERA-37 website to facilitate communication with Southern land-grant university faculty, staff, and partners.<br /> <br /> B. Developed survey of Latino Outreach via Extension in the South with over 900 responses from extension staff and administrators so far. Data were collected to support development of a grant proposal for the development of a domestic immersion training program for Extension educators. Datawill be analyzed, and grant proposal and research papers are to be developed this year.<br /> <br /> C. Piloted a training called Bridging the Culture Divide: Inclusive Programming for Extension Professionals. 91 people attended the two day training in North Carolina from15 states. This training program included several sessions, including a review of Immigration in the US; Immigration in your state; Understanding personal perspectives, biases & assumptions; Legal issues 101; Strategies for engaging Latino/Hispanic audiences; Working together to build inclusive communities (partnerships, volunteers); a Show & Tell with invited speakers from across North Carolina; and a session on Planning your program. Presentations are posted online at http://sera37.wordpress.com/taskforces/training-taskforce/bridging-the-culture-divide/.<br /> <br /> D. Created searchable inventory of over 500 Spanish resources for extension professionals<br /> <br /> E. Developing a grant proposal for development and evaluation of a domestic immersion training program for Extension educators focused on cultural competency, experiential learning of new Latino immigrant challenges and assets, and mentored program development with the objective of increasing Extensions capacity to for serving Latino families in the rural South. A Community Partner meeting was held April 28, 2009 to solicit input and support for the proposal from Latino-serving organizations.<br /> <br /> G. Developed a Logo to market the initiative.<br /> <br /> H. Created an updated listserve with over 103 active members.<br /> <br /> I. Each of four taskforces met monthly or bimonthly via conference call to accomplish the goals of the group.<br /> <br />

Publications

Behnke, A. O. (2008). Expanding the Latino market niche: Developing capacity and meeting critical needs. Journal of Extension [On-line], 46(5). Available at: http://www.joe.org/joe/2008october/rb5.shtml.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., Falk, C., & Storm, J. F. (2009). Health and safety events for Latino families: Collaborating to create "El Día de los Niños Celebración." Journal of Extension [On-line], 47(2). Available at: http://www.joe.org/joe/2009april/iw3.php <br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., MacDermid, S. M., Coltrane, S. L., Parke, R. D., Widaman, K. F., & Duffy, S. A. (2008). Family cohesion in the lives of Mexican American and European American parents. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 70 (4), 1045-1059.<br /> <br /> Behnke, A. O., Taylor, B., & Parra Cardona, J. R. (2008). "I hardly understand English, but...": Mexican origin fathers describe their commitment as fathers despite the challenges of immigration. Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 39 (2).<br /> <br /> Bohon, S., Atiles, J.H., & Stamps, K. (2008). Transportation and migrant adjustment in Georgia. Population Research and Policy Review, 27(3), 273-291.<br /> <br /> James, R., & Atiles, J.H. (2008). The transitioning nature of Hispanic renters. Housing Policy Debate, 19(1), 177-206.<br /> <br /> Plunkett, S. W., Behnke, A. O., Sands, T., & Choi, B. Y. (2009). Adolescents' reports of parental engagement and academic achievement in immigrant families. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 38, 257-268.<br /> <br />

Impact Statements

1. A framework was established for extension programming and research studies on Hispanic communities in the United States. The SERA-37 group is expanding its networking capacity and has grown to 88 registered members and is involving 20 major Universities and several project programs targeting Hispanics.
2. A common ground analysis and commitment was reached during the first SERA-37 meeting to create a formal structure capable to provide valuable information to help educators, researchers, community development specialist, government and others professionals on how to work with Hispanic communities effectively.
3. We presented at the national Fall 2008 Galaxy Meeting on the subject of "immigration" entitled: "Stirring the Melting Pot: Embracing the Challenges of Immigration."
4. As a result of collaborative efforts of the SERA-37 training group task force and the pesticide coordinator office of North Carolina State University the first multi-state pesticide certification training program in Spanish was delivered in two counties in North Carolina. The program was conducted by Cesar Asuaje an extension specialist from the University of Florida with the support of Dr. Wayne Buhler the North Carolina State University pesticide coordinator and the department of Agriculture. The program was designed to transfer valuable information on teaching techniques, outreach strategies and program marketing techniques used to target Hispanic agricultural workers.
5. See attachment under Summary of Minutes for other Impacts....impacts to long for report

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Report Information

Participants

Kathleen Tajeu Alabama Cooperative Extension System (New Chair Elect)
Stacey McCullough University of Arkansas (New Secretary Elect)
Roberto Gallardo Southern Rural Development Center (New Secretary Elect)
Maria Navarro University of Georgia (New Conference Chair)
Andrew Behnke NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension (Chair)
Cesar Asuaje University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Science (Chair)
Julia Storm NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension (Secretary)
Ron Cox Oklahoma State University (Secretary)
Catherine LePrevost NC State University
Cesar Asuaje University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Science
Bryan Fluech Florida Sea Grant/ University of Florida Extension
Nicole Walker UF/IFAS Polk Co. Cooperative Extension
Bridget Washburn Florida Dept of Environmental Protection
Jenna Brown University of Georgia
Steven Gibson UGA's College of Agricultural and Evironmental Sciences
Bo Beaulieu Southern Rural Development Center
Frida Bonaparte Mississippi State University
Reuben Moore MAFES
Monica Rosas Southern Rural Development Center
Rosa Vozzo Mississippi State University
Cintia Aguilar NCSU Cooperative Extension
Cliff Ruth NCCES/Henderson County
Harry Crissy Clemson University
Jayne McBurney NC Cooperative Extension Service
Jennifer Boyles Clemson University
Amy-Lynn Alberston NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension
Katrina Mitchell Alabama Cooperative Extension System
Karen Rich University of Kentucky
Seydel Cropps NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension
Felicia Davenport University of Kentucky
Dee Furlough NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension
Ben Boyles Kansas State University
Gae Broadwater Kansas State University
Juan Ortiz NC Farmworker Health Program
Diane Mason University of Kentucky
Scott Cagle Mississippi State University
Marissa Matta Social Science Research Center
Pam Sigler University of Kentucky
Abigail Villalba Virginia Tech
Daleta Christensen Iowa State University
Laura Byrd NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension
Martha Thompson Tennessee State University
Nancy Calix Kansas State University
Yvonne Thomas Alabama Cooperative Extension System
Diane Rodriguez East Carolina State University
Juvencio Rocha Peralta East Carolina State University
Kim Allen NC State University/NC Cooperative Extension
Alejandra Gudino Missouri State University
Ricardo Contreras East Carolina State University
Laura Gonzalez University of North Carolina- Greensboro
Domingo Martínez Missouri State University
Cristina Abreo University of Arkansas
Zola Moon University of Arkansas
Krista Perreira University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill

Brief Summary of Minutes

BRIEF SUMMARY OF MINUTES OF 2010 ANNUAL SERA-37 MEETING:

"The New Hispanic South: Strengthening the Capacity of the Region's Land-Grant University System to Respond" October 6, 2010 through October 7, 2010 at the Raleigh Marriott City Center
Welcome and Introductions (includes virtual sites): SERA-37 Co-Chairs: Andrew Behnke, Cesar Asuaje SERA-37 Co-Secretaries: Julia Storm, Ron Cox
Annual Business Meeting: Stated objectives of SERA-37 and objectives for the meeting; Review of accomplishments of SERA-37; How can SERA-37 effectively partner with NCERA 216
Updates on Webinars and Immersion Program Invited Presentations:
Kim Allen & Alejandra Gudiño - Connecting for Families: Recruitment and program development for family life education with Latino families
Alejandra Gudiño, Eduardo Crespi, & Stephen Jeanetta - Maximizing Community and University Partnership: Centro Latino Example
Nancy C. Cálix - Latino College Fair and Leadership Camp with AMOR (Access, Multiculturalism, Opportunity, Responsibility)
Diane Rodriguez & Juvencio Rocha Peralta - Educational Ambition of Latino/Mexican Adolescents in Eastern North Carolina and Mexico
Ricardo Contreras - Engaged Research with Latinos at East Carolina University: Process and Outcomes of The Nuevo South Action Research Collaborative
Laura Gonzalez - Latino Adolescents' Perceptions of their Future: A Qualitative Pilot Study
Domingo Martínez - Cambio de Colores  Latinos in the Heartland Conference
Jayne McBurney - Reaching Latino Parents Just in Time
Maria Navarro, Jennifer Brown, & Nick Fuhrman - Adapting to a new human and business landscape: Analysis of a professional development program for Cooperative Extension agents
Cristina Abreo, Zola Moon, Frank Farmer, Wayne Miller, & Stacey McCullough - If I just had a piece of paper: One land grant universitys response to Latino immigrant entrepreneurs
Business Meeting Continued: Election of New Chair-Elect for 2011-2012
Working Group Breakouts: Immersion, Family and Community, Entrepreneurship Task Forces Keynote Presentation: The Demography of Childhood Immigration and Latino Adolescent Health Krista Perreira, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Working Group General Session: How to stay connected and focused; Future annual conferences: Cambio de Colores Conference in Kansas City Action Items: Visit NIMSS web site http://nimss.umd.edu/ and register; Participate in new task forces; Rework Website; Development of 2011 Cambio de Colores Conference  SERA-37 Annual conference

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
1. Establish and facilitate dialogue and information exchange among land-grant representatives from the South dealing with key Hispanic issues in the region. This was achieved via regularly scheduled conference calls, annual face-to-face meetings, and 8 webinars by based conferencing.

2. Catalogue the research and Extension resources existing within the region and beyond that focus on issues associated with the expanding growth of Hispanics in urban or rural areas. In addition, facilitate access by land-grant faculty in the region to this important repository of information. This resource compendium has been placed on the SERA-37 website for all to access. See: http://sera37.wordpress.com/taskforces/inventory-taskforce/

3. Developed an in-depth survey of 982 Extension professionals in the South with a focus on Extensions Role in Serving Latinos. Data used to create grant applications and publish a paper in the Journal of Extension listed below.

4. Immersion Task Force has met frequently and developed and been funded (Farm Foundation and NCSU) to carry out the Domestic Immersion program. This program will allow cooperative extension agents and specialists to participate in an 18 month domestic immersion experience that will help them learn how to work with Spanish-speaking clientele and develop programs that will meet their specific needs. The experience culminates in a week-long experience in North Carolina living and working with Spanish-speaking families and experiencing their difficulties in first person.

5. Ongoing development of collaboration with NCERA-216 our partner in the Midwest to host a large scale conference called Cambio de Colores in Kansas City. D.

6. Created searchable inventory of over 500 Spanish resources for extension professionals


IMPACTS:

1. A framework was established for extension programming and research studies on Hispanic communities in the United States. This framework will be published in 2011 by SERA-37 members. The SERA-37 group is expanding its networking capacity and has 20 major Universities and several project programs targeting Hispanics.
2. The Domestic Immersion program will have a huge impact on the region. This pilot program will allow many extension agents and specialists to participate in an 18 month domestic immersion experience that will help them learn how to work with Spanish-speaking clientele and develop programs that will meet their specific needs. This program will help these professionals implement programs that will likely have a big impact on the lives of Spanish-speaking individuals and families in the South.
3. Our in-depth survey of 982 Extension professionals in the South will shortly be published in the Journal of Extension and suggests. This survey of Cooperative Extension educators from 12 southern states provides a snapshot of their experiences working with Latino communities. The objective of this research was to gather data regarding Extension educators desire and perceived ability to work with the new Latino audiences in their communities and inform the development of cultural competency training. The rapid growth of the Hispanic population in rural communities in the Southeast has left many Extension offices ill-prepared to meet these new clients needs. We make suggestions for helping Extension educators develop effective partnerships and provide bilingual services are discussed.





PUBLICATIONS:
1. Behnke, A. O., & Falk, C. (in press). A new breed of Latino parent involvement programs: Involving whole families. Journal of Extension.
2. Behnke, A. O., Gonzalez, L., & Cox, R. (2010). Latino students in new arrival states: Factors and services to prevent youth from dropping out. Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences, 32 (3), 305-317.
3. Herndon, M. C., Behnke, A. O., Navarro, M., Brown, J., & Storm, J. F. (under review). Cooperative Extension Educators Serving Latino Populations in the South. Journal of Extension.
4. Farmer, F., Moon, Z., & Miller, W. P. (2010). Growth and Change in Arkansas Hispanic Population. Report by the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Services.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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