Alana Skogen, Bumper’s College Honors graduate

Author: Alana Skogen | Major: Agricultural Communications & AgriBusiness | Semester: Fall 2023

My name is Alana Skogen, and I’m a recent graduate of Dale Bumper’s College of Agriculture, Food & Life Sciences. I double-majored in Agricultural Communications and AgriBusiness with a minor in Agricultural Leadership. My mentor, Dr. Casandra Cox from the Agriculture Education, Communications, and Technology (AECT) Department, guided me through a transformative research journey. In November 2021, I embarked on a mission to develop learning modules addressing gender bias and leadership challenges, supported by an Honors College Grant in the Fall of 2023.

This journey began in the Experiential Learning Lab, as I was working on a news article for the AECT monthly newsletter. The project I was writing about intrigued me; AECT faculty were performing research in collaboration with the Women’s Giving Circle to identify challenges and biases for women in agriculture and the general workforce. Learning about the project’s efforts sparked my interest, and I asked Dr. Cox if there were any opportunities for me to incorporate the project into my honors research. She informed me that it would work perfectly, and I chose Dr. Cox to be my mentor. To ensure my project seamlessly aligned with the WGC project, I asked Dr. Rucker and Ms. Estes to be my Honors Committee Members.

My project, “Navigating Leadership Pathways,” consists of three self-paced modules addressing gender biases, leadership style differences, and cultural norms affecting women’s progress in the workplace. These modules provide a dynamic and interactive learning experience. The aim is not just to inform but to inspire positive change in workplaces where diversity is celebrated, and leadership transcends gender boundaries.

I did encounter some slight challenges throughout the project. Timing issues with software access posed a significant challenge. To overcome this, I employed good time management, meticulously writing out modules and preparing assets in advance. This proactive approach helped ensure a smoother process once software access was granted.

Dr. Cox was my guiding light throughout the process. She ensured my project aligned with both personal and Women’s Giving Circle project goals. Her support, flexibility, and wealth of knowledge were invaluable. Dr. Rucker, Ms. Estes, Mrs. Whitehead, and Dr. Wood also played crucial roles, offering support, feedback, and resources throughout the entirety of my project.

I learned a lot throughout my time researching and creating the learning modules. Beyond the research topic, I discovered my passion for promoting gender equality in leadership. This project not only expanded my academic horizons but also shaped my personal and professional values.

Having graduated in December, I’m excited to kickstart my career in Florida as a content technology associate at OBP Marketing Agency. The company’s commitment to overcoming barriers for women in leadership resonates with my project’s goals. I hope to leverage my knowledge and skills to contribute to a more gender-equal workforce and inspire positive change.

This research journey has been both challenging and rewarding. I am proud to play a role in promoting gender equality and advocating for women pursuing leadership positions. It’s not just about breaking barriers; it’s about paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in the agricultural workplace and beyond.