Ag Week Unites Students and Farmers

By Blake Jackson

A leading university is joining the nationwide celebration of National Agriculture Day on March 18, an occasion that recognizes the essential contributions of farmers and the broader agricultural community. With deep roots in agricultural education since its founding in 1865, the institution continues to celebrate and support agriculture through teaching, research and outreach.

The 2025 theme for Ag Day, “Together We Grow,” aligns perfectly with the university’s agricultural college, which is committed to enhancing lives through education, science and service. The college trains future leaders in agriculture, delivers valuable research to farming communities, and offers support across the region through its extensive extension network.

“Agriculture is more than an industry – it’s a community that thrives on innovation and collaboration,” said Stephenson. “At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, we are growing together by equipping students with the knowledge and experiences to shape the future while ensuring our research and extension efforts support Kentucky’s producers and communities every day.”

As a tribute to the agricultural roots of the region, the college produced a video celebrating the state’s key crops, livestock and signature farming industries. The video highlights how continuous research, teaching, and outreach play a role in strengthening the agricultural sector.

The university is also hosting Ag Week from March 24 to 28, featuring several student-focused events supported by organizations like Ag Credit, Farm Credit Mid-America, the state beef council and the local farm bureau. 

Activities include:

• A lunch-and-learn session about research opportunities for students.
• A career talk by a former supply chain executive on managing professional growth.
• A graduate program preview night to explore higher education options.
• A movie night featuring an agriculture-themed documentary and local snacks.
• A day of service through campus-wide volunteer projects.
• A trivia night to test agricultural knowledge in a fun, social setting.

These events aim to educate, engage and inspire students while reinforcing the vital role agriculture plays in everyday life. To learn more or get involved, visit the university’s Ag Week webpage.

Photo Credit: university-of-kentucky