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Seminar IV: Start With Why (Shenandoah Valley)

The valley is a very special place. Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is home to four of the top five ag-producing counties in the state. While livestock and poultry production reign supreme, the agricultural landscape is as diverse as it is productive. I have admired the valley since I began my career in agriculture; however, during my… Continue reading Seminar IV: Start With Why (Shenandoah Valley)

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­­Seminar III: Legislative Advocacy & Policy Development (Richmond)

Another VALOR seminar has come and gone. As I reflect on our time in Richmond, exploring topics in legislative advocacy and policy development, I am blown away by the meaningful learning opportunities and connections that took place over the course of just three days, from the hallowed halls of the Governors Cabinet Room to the… Continue reading ­­Seminar III: Legislative Advocacy & Policy Development (Richmond)

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Seminar II: Ag Trade & Engaging w/ Others (Tidewater/Eastern Shore)

Alongside my VALOR class VII cohort, I enjoyed an enriching and exciting four days in the tidewater region and eastern shore of Virginia in late November. Over the course of the seminar, we visited a variety of farms and agribusinesses, learning the unique challenges, production practices, market conditions and marketing associated with cotton, peanuts, pork… Continue reading Seminar II: Ag Trade & Engaging w/ Others (Tidewater/Eastern Shore)

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Introduction: Are You Interested in Ag Communications?

I stood in Dr. Julia McCann’s office in Litton-Reaves Hall during the fall semester of my sophomore year at Virginia Tech. In order to gain membership to the Block & Bridle (B&B) club, I was required to obtain faculty signatures on the wooden letters that our pledge class carved and decorated. As Dr. McCann signed… Continue reading Introduction: Are You Interested in Ag Communications?