Kansas State University

The K-State Excellence in Engagement Award recognizes outstanding contributions to university-community engagement, with submissions accepted beginning Feb. 1. This award highlights initiatives that demonstrate innovative and sustained efforts in engaged scholarship, positively impacting both university and community partners through research, teaching and outreach. 

Past award recipients have exemplified excellence in engaged scholarship, and one notable example is the Garden for Good program. Led by Pamela Paulsen, director of K-State Research and Extension — Reno County, this innovative program showcases the power of university-community collaboration. 

The Garden for Good program, launched in 2011, is a collaborative effort between K-State Research and Extension and the correctional facility. The program's impact extends far beyond the facility's walls — it fosters a sense of community, promotes rehabilitation and transforms lives. 

"The Garden for Good is made up of such a diverse group of individuals with varying backgrounds, experiences and upbringing. Yet in the garden they are all one, learning and growing together and supporting each other," Paulsen said. 

The Garden for Good program is a 1.75-acre community garden nestled within the Hutchinson Correctional Facility-East Unit. Through the program, a select number of residents participate in the Master Gardener program with K-State Research and Extension and learn the fundamentals of gardening and fresh produce cultivation. Participants embark on a journey of discovery, growth and self-improvement under the guidance of Paulsen and Reno County master gardener volunteers.  

In 2024, the Garden for Good program made a significant impact on the local community, with residents donating 20,030 pounds of produce from the total harvest amount of 38,023 pounds and $15,000 in monetary donations to local organizations. Furthermore, the program celebrated the graduation of eight new members in November 2024, bringing the total number of residents who have completed the program to 122 gardeners. Since its inception, participants have grown an impressive 304,856 pounds of produce with $58,500 in monetary donations to local community organizations  

For many residents, the Garden for Good program represents a first-time experience with agriculture. As they progress through the program, they develop knowledge in horticulture and essential life skills, including: 

The program's benefits extend far beyond the individual participants. The Garden for Good initiative has evolved into a community-driven project, bridging the gap between the correctional facility and the surrounding community. Fresh produce from the garden is donated to local food banks and charities, promoting food security and supporting those in need.  

K-State's team witnessed how the Garden for Good program is a shining example of the transformative power of education, community engagement and rehabilitation firsthand during the Reno and Seward County community visit. By fostering a sense of purpose, promoting personal growth and cultivating hope, this innovative program is making a lasting impact on the lives of its participants and the community at large. 

"These gardeners are not only learning lifelong skills for themselves, but more importantly, they come to know the satisfaction of serving others," Paulsen said. "I'm not talking about only the residents in the correctional facility, but our Extension Master Gardener volunteers and myself included. We all benefit from being a part of the Garden for Good." 

K-State will continue to visit multiple communities throughout the year to celebrate innovation and outreach opportunities. If you or your department are interested in participating in future visits or have questions about the Excellence in Engagement award, contact the Office of Engagement at ooengage@k-state.edu.