Jalen Sanford, Sustainable Plant Systems Major

Jalen is by far, one of the most outstanding students I have had the pleasure of teaching and working with. He has taken in the knowledge obtained for the classroom and applied it successfully to crop systems at the University of Arizona.

- Dr. Stacy Tollefson, nominator 

Tell us a little about yourself.

I grew up in Goodyear, Arizona and I enjoy cycling, weightlifting and gardening--I currently have a lot of basil growing on my porch.

My major is in Sustainable Plant Systems with an emphasis in Controlled Environment Agriculture. 

What have you enjoyed most about your major?

My favorite memory is the first time that I was working in the Teaching Greenhouse and had to lower my tomato plants. 

As I climbed a ladder and looked over the canopy, a bumblebee flew past my face and I was awestruck by the marriage of nature and architecture within the greenhouse. 

My favorite class was Plant Biology with Dr. Steve Smith. Aside from learning the foundations of plant sciences, I was inspired by Dr. Smith to appreciate plant life, the fragility of our environment, and to become a better student. 

Any clubs or leadership positions you enjoyed?

I was fortunate to be asked by Dr. Stacy Tollefson to be the manager of the University of Arizona Student Union Rooftop Greenhouse. 

The Rooftop Greenhouse grows a steady supply of tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers from August through May for the Campus Pantry to distribute to students and faculty in need.

Any scientific research you did?

I worked for Dr. Steve Smith on two of his research projects. 

The first was a trial to test many varieties of alfalfa seeds for their ability to germinate in saline conditions. The second was a study of the leaf area indices of two water use efficient native grasses to see if they could be used as turf. 

Next steps?

I am planning to move to Denver, Colorado and continue working in controlled environment plant production. I would also like to further my education by attending graduate school for horticultural studies. 

Words of advice?

Small, consistent, daily action is the best way to improve yourself.