| Add content to page (text, photo, etc.) | | Complete | Chris Barnett | Please add Legacy Statement and Photo: The Irani-Renkus scholarship fund honors the legacy of two UF faculty and family members whose work has contributed to the advancement of applied social science in family, youth and community sciences, agricultural education and journalism and communications. The Fund honors the contributions of Dr. Irani, whose career at UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) has contributed to shaping the future of science and agricultural communication, interdisciplinary research, and public engagement. Dr. Irani's visionary leadership and dedication have significantly impacted the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and the broader UF community.
Her visionary work includes developing and leading the Center for Public Issues Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources (PIE Center) as well as founding the Scientific Thinking Educational Partnership. As chair of the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, she successfully developed the department's first doctoral program and co-chaired the working group that established UF’s Field and Fork Food Pantry.
Dr. Renkus, who was Dr. Irani’s younger brother, was a long-time, well-loved instructor in the university’s College of Journalism and Communications, where he taught courses in media history and television video production.
The Irani-Renkus Scholarship Fund reflects a commitment to innovation in teaching, research, and extension, especially as the result of interdisciplinary collaboration. This scholarship will support students who demonstrate a passion for addressing complex societal problems and who aspire to communicate these issues effectively to policymakers and the public.
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