Cultivating a Bright Future

Agriculture is more than a field of study — it’s a responsibility grounded in culture, community and care for the environment. For Stella Hardin, that belief has guided her journey at NC State University and continues to shape her future.

Hardin, an agricultural science major with concentrations in animal science and biological and agricultural engineering technology and a minor in extension education, is among more than 800 students from NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to graduate this May. Raised in a rural Native community as a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, her path into agriculture was shaped early by the values instilled through her upbringing.

“I have always deeply cared about animals, the environment and sharing how important agriculture is to sustainability,” Hardin said. “Growing up, I was taught to respect Mother Nature — and that if you care for the earth, it will care for you.”

That foundation sparked her early interest in agriculture, from learning traditional growing techniques to understanding the medicinal role of herbs. Today, she sees agriculture as essential not only to survival, but to strengthening communities and preserving cultural knowledge.

As the undergraduate student speaker for the Department of Agricultural and Human Sciences, Hardin stressed to her fellow graduates the important role of agriculture, from food security to economic impact and the need to develop innovative, resilient practices as global demand evolves. 

“Everybody on this planet depends on the work that happens in our fields, our labs, our research centers, and in our communities,” she said. “Everyone here has been entrusted with a duty to assist in transforming agriculture for the ever-changing needs of society in a way that also replenishes what we take.”

A Time of Growth

During her time at NC State, Hardin has grown both personally and professionally. She credits her college experience with building her confidence and opening doors to new opportunities. 

“NC State has introduced me to so many people who have changed me for the better,” she said. “It has helped me explore different career paths and pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone.”

Two of those influential mentors include Kimberly Pender and April Jackson, both with the College of Engineering, who supported Hardin throughout her college journey. Their guidance, encouragement and belief in her potential helped shape her growth as both a student and a leader.

Hardin also credits several members of the Department of Agricultural and Human Sciences (AHS) for making a lasting impact on her academic experience and career goals. Among them is Karly Anderson, who taught several of her agricultural leadership courses. 

“She always made the material fun and interesting,” Hardin said, adding that Anderson’s energy and teaching style made her eager to attend class. “Her classes taught me how to become a better leader in my life and in student organizations.” 

She also points to AHS faculty Joseph Donaldson and Saifur Rahman as influential mentors. Through multiple courses, they introduced her to the importance of N.C. Cooperative Extension and its role in serving communities across the state.

“They taught me how important Extension is and the positive impact it can make on a community,” Hardin said. “It completely changed my career options.”

That experience sparked her interest in Extension work, which she hopes to continue pursuing in the future.

Community Driven

Outside of the classroom, Hardin has made a lasting impact through her involvement in student organizations. She has been an active member of the Native American Student Association and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), serving as AISES treasurer during her sophomore year and president for the past two years.

“These organizations have been a home away from home for me,” Hardin said. “Serving my peers and the Native community on campus has been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience.”

Hardin has also gained valuable professional experience through her work with the Advocates for Student Communities through Engagement, Networking, and Development (ASCEND) engineering program at NC State. Starting as a student assistant, she rose to serve as student team lead, where she helped plan and execute events, led student staff and ensured daily operations ran smoothly. During the past three summers, she stepped into a larger leadership role as program coordinator for the ASCEND summer bridge program.

Her work focused on building community among engineering students — creating spaces where students feel supported, connected and empowered to succeed. 

“Large campuses can feel overwhelming,” Hardin said. “ASCEND creates a place where students can build relationships and feel like they belong.” 

When reflecting on who inspires her most, Hardin points to her mother. “She has done everything she can to provide for our family,” Hardin said. “Her strength, faith and dedication continue to motivate me to keep going, even when things are difficult.”

Looking ahead, Hardin plans to begin her career after graduation, with hopes of maintaining strong ties to NC State, building a stable future, and continuing to serve her community.

Grounded in her values and driven by a desire to give back, Hardin is committed to using her education to make a meaningful impact in agriculture — one that honors both her roots and the communities she serves.