By Blake Jackson
Twelve college students are spending the summer interning with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA), working alongside agency staff and Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell to serve farm families across the Commonwealth.
“KDA’s internship program offers college students an opportunity to work side-by-side with our employees and agriculture community for a unique experience,” Commissioner Shell said. “This mentorship program can help launch careers in ag-related fields by providing a great advantage to those who want to continue in agriculture.”
The paid summer initiative gives undergraduates first‑hand insight into the state government’s role in supporting Kentucky’s leading industry. Interns rotate through divisions from marketing and communications to food safety, animal health, and policy-building skills and professional networks.
The program welcomes majors that connect to agriculture either directly or indirectly; past participants have gone on to careers in education, computer science, public relations, law, and production farming.
This year’s cohort has helped stage livestock shows, prepare proclamations, staff statewide conferences, create social‑media promotions, teach farm‑safety practices, and assist outreach such as the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition initiative and the Junior Chef cooking contests.
The assignment also introduces them to legislative advocacy and commodity‑promotion work vital to rural economies. Many earn course credit while expanding leadership abilities and professional portfolios. Their contributions strengthen Kentucky agriculture.
2025 KDA Summer Interns:
- Abigail Barrett, Lexington - University of Kentucky
- Taylor Bishop, Springfield/Greensburg - Morehead State University
- Shelby Butler, Mount Washington - University of Kentucky
- Emily Chunglo, Harrodsburg - Western Kentucky University
- Rachel Cowherd, Campbellsville - University of Kentucky
- Callie Hudson, Versailles - University of Tennessee
- Dylan Foster, Florence - Morehead State University
- Sayde Lowe, Murray - Murray State University
- Davis Miller, Lexington - Wofford College
- Leslie Monhollen, Williamsburg - University of Kentucky
- Mary Brooke Stith, Brandenburg - Murray State University
- Emily Tabor, Garfield - Western Kentucky University
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, Education