Shelley Mitchell

Shelley Mitchell is a Senior Extension Specialist in the Department of Horticulture & Landscape Architecture at Oklahoma State University (OSU), where she holds a 100% Extension appointment focusing on youth horticulture programs. She leads initiatives such as the Camp TURF summer academy, designed to expose high school students to horticultural careers. Her work integrates youth development, environmental education, and teacher training.

She holds a Ph.D. in Health, Leisure, and Human Performance (2013), an M.S. in Environmental Science (2007), and B.S. degrees in Animal Sciences and Biology (1995/1996) from OSU. Prior to academia, she was a National Board Certified High School Science Teacher (1999–2008).

Research interests include youth engagement in science, horticultural education, and community outreach. She has authored numerous extension publications and peer-reviewed articles on topics like plant care, safety, and program evaluation.

• Recipient of awards including the OSU President’s Cup (2015) and the Jane L. Taylor Award (2014).
• Co-developed the Oklahoma School Garden Network and coordinates state 4-H programs.
• Active in grants securing funding for horticultural education and youth initiatives.