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College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences (CAENS)

Annual Farmers Conference

Home > Colleges & Schools > CAENS > Farmers Conference

Tuskegee University will host the 135th Annual Farmers Conference on February 18–19, 2027, continuing its 1892-founded legacy as one of the nation’s longest-running gatherings for farmers, families, and rural leaders.

 
Event Overview

Founded in 1892 as the People’s Conference, the Annual Farmers Conference continues its long-standing tradition of advancing progressive agriculture, rural development, and community resilience. Today, the conference serves as a dynamic educational forum featuring expert-led sessions, hands-on demonstrations, farm tours, panel discussions, and interactive workshops designed to address the evolving needs of farmers and agricultural stakeholders.

Participants will gain practical insights, explore innovative practices, and engage in meaningful dialogue around agriculture, sustainability, family and community well-being, and economic opportunity.

 

About the Farmers Conference

Our Mission
Our Goals
Our Values
Meet the Team

Mission

To empower farmers, families, and communities through education, innovation, and collaboration while honoring Tuskegee University’s historic commitment to agricultural excellence and service.

Goals

 

  • Strengthen farm profitability and sustainability

  • Share research-based agricultural practices

  • Support rural and Black Belt communities

  • Foster intergenerational learning and leadership

  • Promote family, youth, and community engagement in agriculture

 

Values

 

  • Education & Access

  • Equity & Inclusion

  • Stewardship & Sustainability

  • Community & Collaboration

  • Legacy & Innovation

Committees, Sponsors, and Partners

Agenda & Speakers

Raymon Shange, Co-Chair
Demetrius Hooks, Co-Chair
Tyrone Smith, Co-Chair

Communications & Marketing

Maurice Antoine Jr.
Demetrius Hooks
Karen Craig

Awards Committee

William Hodge

Planning Committee

Raymon Shange, Co-Chair
Demetrius Hooks, Co-Chair
Tyrone Smith, Co-Chair

Professional Development

Shannon Payne
Elizabeth Whetstone
DeAmbria Abner

Financials & Special Donors

Carmalita Pollard
Wanda Carpenter-Morrow
George Hunter
William Hodge

AV, Media & Technology

Wanda Carpenter-Morrow

Sponsors

Alabama Ag Credit
ALFA

Platinum Level Sponsor

Center for Farming Systems

Rural Prosperity, and Economic Sustainability (CFSRPES)

 

Bronze Club Sponsor

Sand County Foundation

Back to Where It Began

The Annual Farmers Conference returns to the Tuskegee University campus—honoring its 1892 roots and advancing the future of agriculture.

After years on the road, the Farmers Conference comes home—back to the Tuskegee University campus where it began in 1892. More than a change in location, this return represents a reconnection to the roots, people, and purpose that shaped generations of farmers and families. As the conference returns to its birthplace, it carries forward a legacy of resilience, education, and progress for the future of agriculture in the Black Belt and beyond.

More Information

Program Overview

The conference program will include plenary sessions, breakout workshops, demonstrations, tours, and special events. A comprehensive agenda will be released closer to the conference date.

Program Access:

You can view the program online once available by clicking the button below:

View Program Online

Conference Theme

A Legacy in the Soil, A Vision in the Seed.

The 135th Farmers Conference, themed “A Legacy in the Soil, A Vision in the Seed,” honors generations of agricultural knowledge while embracing new ideas for the future. It brings farmers and agricultural leaders together to share practical solutions, strengthen communities, and inspire the next generation to cultivate a resilient and prosperous agricultural future.

Dates & Location

Dates: February 18–19 2027

Location: Tuskegee University Campus

1200 West Montgomery Road

Tuskegee, Alabama

Who Should Attend?

 

  • Farmers and ranchers

  • Beginning and experienced producers

  • Families and youth interested in agriculture

  • Extension professionals and educators

  • Agribusiness owners and service providers

  • Community leaders and partners

  • Students and aspiring agricultural professionals

 

Why Participate?

 

  • Learn practical, research-based strategies

  • Connect with experts and peers

  • Discover resources and technical assistance

  • Explore new tools, technologies, and opportunities

  • Celebrate a legacy of over 125 years of agricultural leadership

 

Agenda-at-a-Glance

TBA

Registration

TBA

Exhibitor Request

 

Exhibitor Information

For information on exhibition booths, please contact:

 

Sponsors

 

  • Alabama Ag Credit

  • ALFA

 

Program Contacts

 

For additional information, please contact: