Voice of the Farmer Garden Hosts Agriculture Future of America Students
WASHINGTON, D.C. (SEPT. 30, 2026) — Farm Journal Foundation recently hosted a group of college students from Agriculture Future of America for a policy discussion and tour of the Voice of the Farmer Garden.
Students, representing schools from across the country, were participating in AFA’s Policy Institute conference in Washington, D.C. Sept. 13-15. A group of about 10-15 students spent the morning at the Voice of the Farmer Garden, an educational exhibit located outside the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s headquarters on the National Mall, discussing important policy issues with senior members of Farm Journal Foundation’s team, as well as careers in agriculture.
“AFA is such an innovative and engaging organization, working to develop the next generation of leaders in agriculture,” said Tricia Beal, CEO of Farm Journal Foundation. “It was inspiring to meet with such a smart, plugged in, and energized group of students to talk about the future of our industry, which is very bright indeed.”
The students met with Farm Journal Foundation’s Senior Policy Advisers Rose Barbuto and Stephanie Mercier, who talked about domestic and international agriculture policy. Students also heard from Farm Journal Foundation garden manager Doug Steinberg, who has had a long career working in global agricultural development. Kyle Allen, Chief of Staff at the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, also stopped by the garden to talk to the students about conservation policy issues and career development. Following the discussions, students took part in a “Policy Challenge” activity, based on the information they learned and educational content found in the garden.
Farm Journal Foundation CEO Tricia Beal also participated in AFA’s executive dinner, featuring roundtable discussions with leaders from across agriculture.
Media Contact
Whitney McFerron, Vice President of Communications
Farm Journal Foundation
About Farm Journal Foundation
Farm Journal Foundation is a farmer-centered nonpartisan organization working to advance agricultural innovation, global food and nutrition security, conservation, and rural economic development. The Foundation believes in a future where agriculture works for everyone – supporting strong farmer livelihoods, business growth, consumer access to nutritious, affordable foods, and the preservation of our country’s natural resources. Achieving this vision starts with conversations – bringing all voices to the table to discuss industry challenges and how innovation can unlock solutions that serve us all. To learn more, visit www.farmjournalfoundation.org.
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