Huntington University has appointed agricultural educator Dr. Jessica Graves to lead its Haupert Institute for Agricultural Studies, signaling a new chapter for a program that blends faith-based instruction with workforce development in one of the nation’s most critical industries.
Graves, who will begin June 1, steps into the role as director of the institute and assistant professor of agriculture following the retirement of longtime leader Dr. Raymie Porter. Her hiring follows a national search and comes as the university marks the 10th anniversary of its agriculture program, which has grown steadily in both enrollment and scope.
University officials say Graves brings a mix of academic credentials and international experience that could broaden the program’s reach. A graduate of Mississippi State University, she holds degrees in animal and dairy sciences, animal nutrition and agricultural and extension education. She spent more than a decade there as an instructor and advisor before moving into global development work with the M4 Institute, where she has led agricultural capacity-building efforts abroad…