School: Fort Valley State University
Major: Plant Biotechnology

Kaya Mitchell is from Memphis, Tennessee, and is pursuing a master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology at Fort Valley State University. Kaya earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences with a concentration in Environmental Science from Tennessee State University, graduating magna cum laude. Kaya’s research focuses on cold response in Rhizoma peanut to support more cold-hardy and sustainable forage systems.

Kaya has earned third-place awards in oral research presentations at the 2026 ARD Research Symposium and MANRRS40 National Conference. Kaya serves as Head of the Speaker Series Committee for FVSU MANRRS and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; C.U.B.S. (Comforting Uplifting Brothers and Sisters); and the SFI/PLT Canada Green Mentorship Program. Kaya’s goal is to combine a background in Environmental Science with studies in Plant Biotechnology to advance agricultural innovation and develop sustainable solutions to environmental and agricultural challenges.