Catherine Sanders

Catherine Sanders is an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist of Food Systems Communication at North Carolina State University (NC State). Her work focuses on science communication, stakeholder engagement, and enhancing the social sustainability of agricultural innovations. She holds a BS in Spanish and Biology from Hendrix College, an MS in Agricultural and Extension Education from the University of Arkansas, and a PhD in Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication from the University of Georgia.

Her research explores innovative Extension communication strategies, the role of values in science communication, and agri-food technology engagement. Notable honors include the 2023 Journal of Applied Communications Article of the Year and the 2023 Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior Editor’s Choice Article. Dr. Sanders teaches AEE 311: Communications and Media, emphasizing professional communication skills.

Her articles span topics like climate-resilient community gardens, competency frameworks for Extension professionals, and Generation Z’s sustainability identities. She actively contributes to programs such as the Agricultural Communications Program and collaborates on initiatives addressing rural food access and health equity. Her work integrates community capitals frameworks and participatory methodologies to evaluate intervention impacts.

Dr. Sanders’ grants and partnerships focus on bridging communication gaps between science and the public, with a focus on rural communities and policy advocacy. She leads teams in developing tools for assessing community resilience and advancing sustainable agricultural practices through collaborative networks.