Creating Opportunities for All in Agriculture

The decision to pursue higher education is often shaped by personal experiences and professional aspirations. For Keonte Edmonds, a Ph.D. candidate in agricultural and extension education at NC State University, that journey began at an unexpected time —during the pandemic.

After years of teaching secondary school, Edmonds was ready for a change. Conversations with faculty members Wendy Warner and Joy Morgan solidified his decision to return to academia. 

“They were incredibly supportive and now serve on my committee,” he says. 

Growing up in rural Virginia on a family farm instilled valuable lessons in leadership and hard work, shaping his passion for animal agriculture and its role in community development. These formative experiences continue to drive his academic and professional pursuits today.

Returning to school after seven years brought both challenges and opportunities. As a proud graduate of two historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Edmonds found NC State to be a transformative experience. 

“Balancing a major career transition and personal loss while enrolled forced me to prioritize my mental health in ways I hadn’t before,” he shares. 

The passing of his younger brother during his studies deeply affected him. However, the unwavering support from NC State’s faculty and staff helped him navigate these challenges. “I hope that future students, especially those who may identify with me, receive the same level of care, inclusion, and encouragement.”

Several faculty and staff members played a pivotal role in his success. He credits Annie Hardison-Moody, Rhonda Sutton, Jai Jackson, Alex Kappus, Chandra Alston, Richard Tyler-Walker, and Sherri Jackson-Ford as instrumental figures in his academic journey. “They didn’t just support me academically; they cared about my well-being during one of the most difficult times in my life.”

Beyond the classroom, involvement in student organizations has been a cornerstone of his experience. Serving on the board of the Black Graduate Student Association and co-advising the rechartering of the MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences) chapter on campus helped Edmonds build a strong sense of community. His role as a graduate teaching assistant allowed him to mentor pre-service teachers, many of whom he remains connected with today.

His motivation is deeply personal, rooted in his upbringing as the eldest of seven siblings in a single-parent household.

 “As a first-generation college student, I never saw myself pursuing a terminal degree. But the love and support of my family, friends, and those who believed in me—even when I doubted myself—pushed me forward.” 

His professional journey is equally impressive. Currently a full-time educator in Wake County, he earned the title of 2023 Teacher of the Year. His work extends far beyond the classroom, contributing to projects with the agricultural advocacy group Cultivating Change and the National FFA Organization. Additionally, he serves in multiple leadership roles, including as a National FFA Teacher Ambassador, National Agriscience Teacher Ambassador, and Chapter/Regional FFA Advisor.

Outside of education, his work with North Carolina Virtual Public Schools, Banfield Pet Hospital as a pet nurse, and Aramark as a nonprofit supervisor reflects his diverse interests and commitment to service. “These roles allow me to contribute to my community in different ways while staying connected to education and animal care.”

Keonte’s passion for education and advocacy extends into the world of sports. As the captain of several teams with Stonewall Sports Raleigh and the founder of a travel kickball team, he is dedicated to fostering belonging and representation in both academic and extracurricular spaces.

Looking ahead, his future remains open-ended but purpose-driven. “I know I want to remain in education, but I’m exploring different avenues—perhaps in training and development, working with the federal government, or even starting my nonprofit.” 

Whatever path he chooses, his focus will remain on empowering others, bridging gaps in agricultural education, and ensuring a broad range of voices are heard.

His story is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to education and advocacy. As he moves toward earning his Ph.D., Edmonds continues to make a lasting impact on NC State and beyond, inspiring future generations to pursue their passions with courage and determination.