Teaching a student how to interpret z-scores is just as enjoyable, at least to me, as teaching a student how to read a speed square!
Douglas D. LaVergne, Ph.D.
- Faculty
Assistant Dean/Associate Professor
College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural ResourcesA Conversation with Dr. LaVergne
What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending A&M-Commerce?
“Texas A&M University-Commerce is an excellent school choice and has everything you are looking for. You will get the opportunity to learn from great faculty who are committed to your success. In addition, you will receive an affordable education that will prepare you for success anywhere in the world!”
What draws you to your discipline?
“Teaching is what draws me to my discipline. I enjoy having the ability to facilitate learning. Teaching a student how to interpret z-scores is just as enjoyable, at least to me, as teaching a student how to read a speed square! In my discipline, I have the responsibility and the ability to do both!”
What has been your favorite course to teach?
“The two courses I enjoy teaching are AMC 2303: Welding and AMC: 315: Agricultural Systems & Technology Management. In Welding, it is like sewing with metal! Once you learn how to do it, your imagination is the only thing that limits your creativity! While in Agricultural Systems & Technology Management, is an introduction to all things agricultural mechanical related. Woodworking, electrical, and metalworking all in one course!”
Tell us about a project you are currently working on or recently completed.
“I recently completed a grant involving the production of biodiesel using waste vegetable oil. The oil came from our campus’s student union!”
Educational Background
- Ph.D., Agricultural Education, Texas A&M University-College Station, 2008
- MS, Agricultural & Extension Education, University of Arkansas–Fayetteville, 2003
- BS, Secondary Education in Agricultural Education, Southern University A&M College-Baton Rouge, 2001
Academic Positions
- Assistant Dean, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, TAMUC, 2018-Present
- Associate Professor, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, TAMUC, 2018-Present
- Assistant Professor, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, TAMUC, 2014-2019
- Assistant Professor, College of Agriculture, Forestry & Design, West Virginia University, 2009-2013
Awards and Honors
- HONORS Award, Texas Association of Black Personnel in High Education, 2020
- Joyce Miller Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award, TAMUC, 2017
- Distinguished Research Poster, National Ag Mech Professional Development Conference, 2016
- Henry Ross Award for Student Development, TAMUC, 2016
- Outstanding Faculty Service Contributor, Davis College of Agriculture, West Virginia University, 2013
Research Interests
- Diversity and underrepresented groups in agricultural and Extension education
- Analyzing the needs of pre-service and in-service agricultural teachers and Extension professionals
- Agricultural mechanization stability in high school agricultural education programs
- Renewable energy/ sustainable agriculture with a public education focus
Professional Organizations
- North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture
- American Association for Agricultural Education
- Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences
Featured Courses
AG 405 Internship Agri-Industries
AMC 315 Agriculture Systems Technology Management
AG 532 Science Method Agriculture Research
AMC 2303 Agriculture Welding