By Blake Jackson
Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension Program has launched a new hands-on agriculture learning center designed to introduce young students to the wide range of careers available in the agricultural industry.
The Urban Ag Discovery Center at Sam Swope JA BizTown officially opened on September 18, 2026. Fifth-grade students from Luhr Elementary School participated in the launch, becoming some of the first students to explore the new educational space.
The center was created to show students that agriculture extends well beyond traditional farming and includes opportunities in business, finance, science, health care, technology, and other fields.
“As Kentucky’s only public HBCU and the Commonwealth’s 1890 land-grant university, Kentucky State has a special responsibility to take knowledge beyond our campus and put it to work in communities across Kentucky,” said Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, President of Kentucky State University, during the ribbon-cutting event.
“That is what Cooperative Extension does every day, and this center offers an exciting new expression of that mission. Through these experiences, students will discover that agriculture reaches into nearly every part of our lives. We hope each student discovers something here that captures their interest — and perhaps begins to imagine a future in agriculture,” Dr. Akakpo added.
Sam Swope JA BizTown operates as a simulated community where fifth graders experience workplace and civic responsibilities. Students participate in classroom lessons before spending four hours at the facility, where they manage businesses, handle money, write checks, and participate in a mayoral election.
Developed under Lynsey Crumbie, state specialist in agricultural entrepreneurship, the center features four agriculture-focused career roles.
Students acting as local food systems coordinators explore food supply chains, crop seasons and market information. Those working as agricultural lenders examine farm financial records, payroll and loan applications while learning how financing supports farm businesses.
The farmer role introduces students to hydroponic and traditional production systems, food preferences, crop pests, and beneficial insects. The veterinary medical officer role focuses on livestock breeds, nutrition and disease while demonstrating the importance of animal health.
“I want every student who visits the Center to understand that agriculture is so much more than ‘digging in the dirt,’” Crumbie said.
“Whether their interests lie in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, the arts, business, health care, or skilled trades, there is a place for them in agriculture.”
The project received support from Farm Credit Mid-America, WEHR Constructors, the University of Kentucky Food Connection and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana also helped develop the initiative.
The opening comes as Kentucky highlights agricultural education through All in for Ag Education Week and Kentucky State prepares for its fourth annual Ag Roundup. Together, these efforts give students additional opportunities to learn about agriculture and potential careers.
Photo Credit: kentucky-state-university
Categories: Kentucky, Business