alumni spotlight

A person pulling a muffin pan out of the oven. A man in the back is pulling a second pan out of the oven.

Apr 21, 2026

Where Purpose and Passion Meet

A passion for service led Kelly Tyndall to agriculture, where she now helps individuals and communities build healthier, more connected lives through her work in Extension.

Person wearing a floral-patterned hijab sitting at a table with a laptop in a modern office setting.

Mar 30, 2026

Perseverance Across Time Zones

Balancing distance learning across time zones, family responsibilities and the challenges of a global pandemic, NC State alumna Rasha Abdullah transformed perseverance into purpose while completing her Youth, Family and Community Sciences degree in December 2020.

Picture of women with a rose colored shirt and sunglasses on her head standing in a strawberry field

Feb 27, 2026

Connecting People, Food, and Community

Grace Baucom’s interdisciplinary education at NC State and beyond has shaped a career centered on telling the stories of local food systems and strengthening communities through Extension-focused communication and engagement.

Family of three sitting on a red plaid blanket by a lake, enjoying a peaceful autumn day outdoors.

Jan 29, 2026

Turning Experience Into Purpose

As a first-generation college graduate and academic advisor at NC State, Ashley Hamilton draws on her own journey of perseverance and self-discovery to help students find direction, confidence and belonging in higher education.

Pic of Crystal Starkes in from of an academic poster

Dec 28, 2025

Where Youth Development Meets AgTech

A dedicated 4-H Extension Agent and NC State Alumna, Crystal Starkes, uses her NC State degree in Youth, Family, and Community Sciences to expand access to STEM and AgTech education while empowering families as partners in youth development.

Pic of Amanda Rees in front of farm machinery

Oct 16, 2025

Bringing Agricultural Experience to the Classroom

Rooted in both education and agriculture, Amanda Rees is cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders through experience-based teaching and authentic connection.

A person poses for a selfie with a dog sitting on a truck on a sunny day in a field.

Jul 28, 2025

Educating with Purpose

Driven by her passion for agriculture and education, NC State alumna Rachelle Andreatta is empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders through her work as a high school teacher and FFA advisor.

Apr 21, 2025

A Spark of Encouragement

An unexpected conversation at a conference sparked Jetoya Robinson’s journey to a master’s degree at NC State and a meaningful career supporting students and families through education and engagement.

Mar 31, 2025

From Farm Roots to Leadership

A lifelong passion for agriculture, inspired by mentorship and education, led Howard Wallace from a small farm in Columbus County to a leadership role in NC Cooperative Extension.

Jan 30, 2025

From Passion to Purpose in Agricultural Education

Emma Hendley’s journey from aspiring veterinarian to agricultural educator highlights the power of mentorship, adaptability, and hands-on learning in shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders.