The University of Tennessee at Martin’s Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter hosted an engaging and educational evening at Holt Family Farms in Dresden, Tenn., on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 6 p.m.
The event offered students an opportunity to explore the heart of Tennessee agriculture while connecting with local producers and state agricultural leaders.
Holt Family Farms served as the ideal setting for the evening. Known for its dedication to agricultural education and community involvement, the farm has long stood as a symbol of the strong agricultural traditions that shape West Tennessee.
The evening featured a scenic hayride through the farm’s pumpkin patch, a dinner with Collegiate Farm Bureau members and a meet-and-greet with Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt. Students were able to engage in meaningful conversations about the agricultural industry, gaining valuable insight into leadership, entrepreneurship and the future of farming in Tennessee.
Commissioner Andy Holt, who also owns and operates Holt Family Farms, shared advice with students about the importance of resilience and confidence in their academic and professional pursuits.
“One of the biggest things that causes students to fail is the fear of failure rather than failing in itself,” Holt said. “Once you push past that fear, you open yourself up to learning, growth and real success.”
Adding to the evening’s discussions, Ellie Holt, wife of Commissioner Holt, a former employee at Tosh Farms and a fourth-generation West Tennessee farmer, spoke on the importance of communication within agriculture. She emphasized that while the production side of agriculture continues to advance, the way it is communicated to the public often falls short.
“Communication is a huge key to sustaining the future of the agriculture industry,” Ellie said. “Production is done in a good way, but it is the communication toward the public that is oftentimes misconstrued.”
Communication of the reality of agricultural production, along with the intentions of farmers and ranchers, is a crucial aspect in the disconnect from producer to consumer. This kind of advice showed students that being employed within the agriculture sector is not the only way to advance the industry; it also needs to be met with effective discussions.
Holt’s message resonated with attendees, highlighting the need for young agricultural leaders to become effective communicators who can bridge the gap between the farm and the public. As members of the UT Martin Collegiate Farm Bureau and students within the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences were in attendance, the advice spoke volumes about how much students are needed in the agriculture industry through both part-time and full-time jobs.
The event showcased how UT Martin’s Collegiate Farm Bureau provides students with hands-on experiences that extend far beyond the classroom. By fostering leadership, professional networking and a deeper understanding of agricultural advocacy, the organization continues to prepare students to become the next generation of voices for Tennessee agriculture.
