Sherry Bell Surrette

Dr. Sherry Bell Surrette serves as an Associate Extension Professor at Mississippi State University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, based at the Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center. Her work focuses on community-based sustainability education and waste management outreach across Mississippi.

Her academic foundation includes:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biological Sciences from the University of Mississippi
• Master of Science (MS) in Agronomy from Mississippi State University
• Bachelor of Science (BS) in General Agriculture from the University of Tennessee at Martin

Dr. Surrette's research centers on practical sustainability implementation and waste stream management, with particular expertise in zero-waste initiatives, recycling education, and household resource conservation. Her work bridges academic research with community application through extension programming and behavioral change strategies, emphasizing actionable solutions for everyday environmental challenges.

Her publication portfolio reveals consistent focus on translating complex sustainability concepts into accessible community resources, with recurring themes in seasonal waste reduction, plastic management, and energy conservation across residential contexts.

Recognition includes:

• Keep Mississippi Beautiful 2022 Distinguished Leading Business Women award
• Elementary Youth Organization 1st Place award for GS Troop 4409
• Mississippi Business Journal honors

As an extension specialist, Dr. Surrette prioritizes direct community engagement over traditional academic advising, collaborating with municipal programs and organizations like Keep Mississippi Beautiful to implement waste reduction initiatives. Her work integrates grant-funded outreach with membership in professional societies including the Mississippi Association of County Agents, Mississippi Native Plant Society, and The Wildlife Society.