As we close out the 2024 year, we reflect on a significant milestone. This year marked the centennial celebration of our department—a century of excellence in teaching, research, and extension that continues to translate into new frontiers of agricultural and environmental innovation.
Retooling for Tomorrow
We made great strides by hiring new faculty and securing funding for agricultural resilience, sustainable farming, and technology. Our research advances precision agriculture, soil health, and plant breeding, addressing critical challenges with cutting-edge solutions. By linking crops and soils, we deliver hands-on, interdisciplinary education while equipping farmers with tools for productivity and sustainability.
Strengths Revealed
This year tested us with extremes, including drought and Hurricanes Debby and Helene. Our Extension teams, such as the Soils Strike Team, responded swiftly, supporting North Carolinians through difficult times. We also navigated transitions in personnel, facilities and a growing enrollment with resilience and adaptability that strengthens our mission of “Growing the Future” through groundbreaking research, educational excellence, strong Extension, and impactful service.
100 Years of Excellence
Our centennial celebrations united alumni, faculty, students, and partners, honoring a legacy of collaboration and discovery. From our humble beginnings in Patterson Hall our department has matured into a global leader in agricultural science, shaping lives in North Carolina and beyond. This year also allowed us to recognize individuals whose contributions have made and continue to make our department what it is today — the very best of the land grant mission.
As we look to 2025 and beyond, our increasingly diverse scholars, students, and research initiatives promise a future of even greater influence and innovation. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey. Together, we are building the foundation for the next century of discovery and transformation.
Join us for a look back at what made 2024 such a milestone in our 2024 Year in Review publication. Here’s to the future and all that is yet to come.
With gratitude and best wishes,
Dr. Jeff Mullahey
Head, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences
NC State University