ABOUT US
Founded in 2018, We Produce Grads is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) based learning in Louisiana public schools by creating Aquaponics Learning Laboratories to engage students with critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and business development skills to become the world's next innovative leaders.
Our mission is to expose students to STEM education with a practical approach that includes entrepreneurial skills to develop high school graduates prepared to excel on their career path to college or business ownership.
DIRECTOR'S WELCOME
STEM education for lifelong learning.
At 32, I was a single father with two children, working full-time, while pursuing an engineering degree at LSU. Reflecting back, my daughters were a huge inspiration for me. Thank God for His grace and a community that gave me support to persevere. The LSU Board of Supervisors Scholarship that I received was life-changing and provided the encouragement and financial assistance during a challenging time in my life.
Now I have the opportunity to show my appreciation to those that helped me (specifically, Rolfe McCollister Jr. and Dr. Tom Greene) by investing in WeProduceGrads so that others can be encouraged to pursue their own education and career goals.
We hope you will join us in supporting our program by purchasing the student-grown produce, visiting our Aquaponic labs, or donating to the program.
Cheers,
Ronnie Morris
WHERE WE BEGAN
Brookstown Middle School
Brookstown Middle School students operated the first STEM Aquaponics program in Louisiana schools. Led by Dr. Laura Leigh Eddleman, the vision was to create and maintain a well-rounded, nurturing environment with a STEAM foundation that provided students with an opportunity to achieve academic success while engaging community stakeholders.
During this era, we established annual traditions like the White Coat Ceremony, where students are recognized for their academic accomplishments and contributions to the lab. This tradition is a standard today throughout the state.
HOW WPG WORKS
OUR SCHOOLS
WeProduceGrads currently supports STEM Aquaponics Labs throughout the state of Louisiana. Student run laboratories are operating in the schools shown below.
These students are all a part of history. One day they may look back and see that they were a part of creating a pipeline of inventive skills and career opportunities right here in their own community. It all starts with the leadership of We Produce Grads bringing this innovative learning approach to the schools which will result in a sustainable ecosystem of fresh food in North Baton Rouge.
Mayor-President of the City of Baton Rouge
Sharon Weston-Broome