For SUNY Morrisville agribusiness management student Hannah Castle, opportunities to learn about agriculture extend well beyond the classroom.
Castle, of Clinton, was selected to attend the 2026 National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Annual Meeting in Portland, Maine, becoming the first SUNY Morrisville student selected to attend the national gathering.
The experience gave her the opportunity to hear from agricultural commissioners, secretaries and directors from across the country, as well as leaders from federal, state and private-sector organizations and gain a broader perspective on the industry.
Castle’s selection reflects her involvement and accomplishments as a SUNY Morrisville student. She is a Phi Theta Kappa honors student and was part of the team that earned first place in the 2026 agribusiness product development competition for Adirondack Berry Bark, a healthy yogurt-based snack designed for people on the go. She is also involved in her community as a volunteer firefighter in the Clinton Fire Department and is taking EMT classes.
Castle works on her family’s farm, which mainly produces hay for local farmers. “Being involved on the farm has brightened my interest in the financial and business side of running an effective farm,” she said.
Castle has her sights set on a career protecting farmers. “My career goal is to work in crop insurance to help farmers protect their crop yields and provide financial security for their families,” she said.
At the NASDA meeting, Castle was able to see the agricultural industry from a national perspective and connect what she has learned at Morrisville with issues facing agriculture across the country.
“Her selection marks a significant opportunity for a SUNY Morrisville student to engage with national agriculture leaders and bring those experiences back to campus,” Sheila Marshman, associate professor of agribusiness, said.
“Being actively involved in farm tours, conferences, and presentations allows me to be engaged and deepen my understanding in the agriculture industry,” Castle said. “These experiences along with my current course work have given me the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to work in this industry.”
