Crop Circles Issue V | MJC School of Agriculture Spring 2026
Crop Circles
Dean’s Desk/Harvest Party
Cultivating Leaders
Milking Victory
Pirates in New Places
NACTA 2026
Plant Sale
Building Better Beef
Your Future Begins Here
Nurturing What’s Next
Career Fair - Fall 2026
Battle for the Banner
A Legacy Awarded
Graduation
Students of Excellence
MeetYourWriters
The School of Agriculture takes great pride in its long-standing tradition of educational excellence and supporting students as they transfer and pursue future opportunities This year, Modesto Junior College School of Agriculture celebrated the success of 121 graduates out of 1,831 total graduates from Modesto Junior College, representing an impressive 15% of the graduating class In addition, the School of Agriculture awarded more than $75,000 in scholarships, recognized outstanding Freshmen and Sophomores, and introduced a newawardhonoringstudentsofexcellencewithineachprogramarea
DEAN’S DESK
As we watch the 2025–2026 academic year come to a close, I am reminded of the enduring legacy within the School of Agriculture The commitment of our students, staff, faculty, and community is what makes Modesto Junior College an integral part of Stanislaus County
Our reputation attracts students from across California and the United States, but it is the opportunities available here that truly set us apart Our facilities, blending historic and modern spaces, are unmatched among community colleges in the Western United States East Campus Agriculture, rooted in its traditional 1950s design, continues to serve as a hub for classrooms and labs, while West Campus has expanded hands-on learning through livestock and field crop operations These experiences prepare students for careers and transfer opportunities alike
Our students continue to shine, representing the strong connection between industry and community. Each year, they earn recognition locally and nationally through judging teams and competitions such as the CATA CAL Contest and NACTA events, showcasing both their agricultural knowledge and professional growth
MJC’s connection to the agricultural community is strengthened through dedicated faculty and staff Industry tours, internships, and partnerships provide students with valuable real-world experiences while reinforcing lasting relationships with our community partners
For many students, their time at MJC is brief but impactful End-of-year traditions celebrate the achievements of our students, staff, faculty, and supporters The “Last Breakfast,” a tradition spanning more than 40 years, is made possible through generous donors Graduation then marks an important milestone as students earn certificates and degrees that launch future success
From the School of Agriculture, we thank everyone who walks through our doors We wish you continued success and look forward to welcoming you back in the future
HARVEST PARTY Modesto Junior College
Troy Gravatt
TROY GRAVATT
DEAN, SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE
MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE WITH GRATITUDE,
CULTIVATINGLEADERS CULTIVATINGLEADERS
KNOWLEDGEBOWL
2NDHIGHTEAM
On February 27, the MJC School of Agriculture proudly hosted the 2026 California Collegiate Agricultural Leaders (CAL) Contest, welcoming students from colleges across the state for a day focused on leadership development, communication and career preparation The event brought together competitors in a variety of contests, including public speaking, job interviews, sales and knowledge bowl, while also showcasing the hard work and hospitality of MJC students who assisted in organizing and running the event.
guests and competitors throughout the day.
TEAMINCLUDED:
The success of the event reflected the dedication of MJC students, faculty and staff, as well as the program’s continued commitment to developing future leaders in agriculture. The MJC School of Agriculture congratulates all students who competed, volunteered and represented the program so well at the 2026 CAL Contest. WRITTENBYJOSEPHAVILA
MJC students delivered an outstanding performance throughout the competition, earning top placings in multiple contests and demonstrating the professionalism and preparation that define the program From polished speeches to confident interviews and strong teamwork in knowledge-based events, students represented the MJC School of Agriculture with excellence both in and out of competition.
In addition to competing, many MJC agriculture students volunteered behind the scenes to help ensure the contest ran smoothly for all participating schools Students assisted with event coordination, contestant check-in, room monitoring and hospitality, helping create a welcoming and organized environment for
MILKINGVICTORY MILKINGVICTORY MILKING VICTORY
Modesto Junior College’s School of Agriculture made an incredib raising 541 gallons in the Give-A-Gallon Challenge, securing a well-de place win. Through dedication and a passion for giving back, MJC and local ag community came together to make a meaningful diff efforts not only showcased the strength of the agriculture progr highlighted the power of teamwork and service. This achievement heart of MJC Agriculture cultivating leadership, generosity an both inside and outside of the classroom.
The Modesto Junior College School of Agriculture made a powerful impact in th food insecurity through its outstanding efforts in the California Milk Advisory B Intercollegiate Give-A-Gallon Challenge. Competing alongside leading collegiate across California, MJC rose to the top by securing an impressive 541 gallons of m
Through community outreach, social media advocacy, milk drives and donati support local families in need while addressing one of the most under-don contributions directly benefited several local organizations, including the Modesto Gospel Mission, MJC Pirates Pantry, Modesto Love Center and The Salvation Army
This remarkable achievement reflects MJC School of Agriculture’s deep commitment to service, leadership and community engagement Over the past four years, MJC’s efforts have provided nearly 3,000 gallons of milk to Stanislaus County, making a lasting difference for thousands of families By winning the Give-A-Gallon Challenge, MJC not only showcased the strength of its agricultural program but also reinforced the importance of coming together to nourish communities and create meaningful change
PIRATES PIRATESin New Places in New Places
WRITTEN BY BETSYTHEIS
The Modesto Junior College School of Agriculture has always been more than just a place to earn a degree; it is a launching point for students pursuing successful careers in agriculture Through rigorous coursework, hands-on learning experiences, industry tours, and networking opportunities throughout California’s Central Valley, students gain valuable real-world skills that prepare them for the future of the agriculture industry.
The department’s dedicated faculty and advisors work to connect classroom instruction with practical agricultural experiences, giving students opportunities to explore careers in agricultural business, education, animal science, plant science, and more From interactive laboratories to field experiences, students develop the leadership, professionalism, and
technical skills needed to succeed both at MJC and beyond.
One of the department’s greatest sources of pride is watching students transfer to four-year universities across the United States and continue their education. Many students also continue participating in judging teams, leadership organizations, and industry programs that help strengthen their communication and career readiness The strong academic and experiential foundation built at MJC allows graduates to continue growing long after they leave campus
The success of the program is closely tied to the legacy of retired faculty members and alumni who continue to support and stay involved with the department. Their continued presence inspires current students and reinforces that MJC is not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a lifetime of opportunity and success in agriculture.
Representing more than 150 years of combined experience, retired faculty members Stan Hodges, John Scheuber, Hal Carlton, Don Borges, Ron Alves, Alan Cover and Richard Nimphius helped build the strong foundation of the MJC agriculture program. Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success continue to leave a lasting impact on the department and the agricultural community
As the agriculture industry continues to evolve, the Modesto Junior College School of Agriculture remains committed to preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders through innovation, hands-on learning, and strong industry connections Hook’em, Pirates!
“These ag instructors had such an impact on so many students, preparing them for the next level of education. I will never forget my 2 years at MJC Ag Dept.” Wayne Zipser, Retired Stanislaus County Farm Bureau Manager
“AFTER EARNING MY BACHELOR’S DEGREE, I PLAN TO CONTINUE MY EDUCATION BY PURSUING A MASTER’S DEGREE IN AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE GOAL OF BECOMING A COMMUNITY COLLEGE PROFESSOR BEFORE EVENTUALLY WORKING TOWARD A DOCTORATE. I KNOW MY TIME AT MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE HAS PREPARED ME FOR WHATEVER OPPORTUNITIES LIE AHEAD, AND I AM EXCITED FOR THIS NEXT CHAPTER.”
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION
“I AM INCREDIBLY THANKFUL FOR MY TIME AT MJC AND THE OPPORTUNITIES IT HAS GIVEN ME TO GROW BOTH PERSONALLY AND ACADEMICALLY. THROUGH THE SUPPORT OF MY INSTRUCTORS, INVOLVEMENT IN AGRICULTURE, AND THE FRIENDSHIPS I’VE BUILT ALONG THE WAY, MJC HAS HELPED SHAPE ME INTO THE PERSON I AM TODAY. MY EXPERIENCES HERE AS A PART OF THE PULL TRUCK CLUB AND THE MECHANICS DEPARTMENT HAVE STRENGTHENED MY PASSION FOR AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION AND PREPARED ME FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER AT FRESNO STATE. I WILL ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL FOR THE MEMORIES, LESSONS, AND SUPPORT SYSTEM THAT MADE MJC FEEL LIKE HOME.”
JACK FLETCHER
AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS
“THE MJC SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE HAS PROVIDED ME WITH TREMENDOUS GROWTH AND DIRECTION THROUGHOUT MY COLLEGE CAREER. THROUGH INTERNSHIPS, CLASSES AND OTHER AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCES, I HAVE BUILT VALUABLE PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL CONNECTIONS. AS I CONTINUE MY JOURNEY IN AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS AT CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, CHICO, I AM EXCITED TO SEE WHERE THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY WILL TAKE ME!”
PIRA IN N PLA MADISON VAN LAAR
ATES NEW CES DESTINY REYES
MADELINE ZWEEGMAN
ANIMAL SCIENCE
“I LOOK FORWARD TO FURTHERING MY KNOWLEDGE AT THE UNIVERSITY LEVEL. THE HANDS-ON APPROACH THAT MODESTO JUNIOR COLLEGE’S SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE HAS TAKEN HAS PROVIDED EXPERIENCE, EXPOSURE AND AN EXCITEMENT FOR DEEPER UNDERSTANDING IN THE YEARS TO COME.”
MIKAYLA SILVEIRA
DAIRY SCIENCE
“MJC IS THE BEST DECISION I’VE EVER MADE. IT GAVE ME THE INVALUABLE OPPORTUNITY TO JUDGE DAIRY ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND OPENED DOORS TO THE NEXT SCHOOL I’LL CALL HOME. THIS FALL, I’M TRANSFERRING TO IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY TO COMPLETE MY BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN DAIRY SCIENCE. SOON I’LL BE CALLING MYSELF A CYCLONE, BUT I’LL NEVER FORGET THE FRIENDS, TEAMMATES, PROFESSORS, AND SCHOOL THAT GAVE ME AN IRREPLACEABLE SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND HELPED SHAPE THE PERSON I AM TODAY.”
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION - TEACHER
PREPERATION
“GOING INTO MY FRESHMAN YEAR AT MJC, I REALLY WASN’T EXPECTING TO GET AS INVOLVED AS I DID IN THE AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT - BUT IT TRULY WAS THE BEST EXPERIENCE. BEING ABLE TO MAKE LIFELONG CONNECTIONS AND FRIENDSHIPS IS SOMETHING I WILL ALWAYS CHERISH. I PLAN TO CARRY THE SAME AMBITIONS AND LESSONS I HAVE LEARNED INTO MY EDUCATION AT FRESNO STATE. GO DOGS!”
MATTHEW PACHECO
DAIRY SCIENCE
“AS I REFLECT ON THE FOUNDATION THAT MJC HAS GIVEN ME AND THE MEMORIES AND EXPERIENCES I HAVE HAD, I AM GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITIES, CONNECTIONS AND LESSONS THAT HAVE SHAPED BOTH MY PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH. I LOOK FORWARD TO GOING TO MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY TO CONTINUE TO MEET NEW PEOPLE, MAKE CONNECTIONS AND CONTINUE MY EDUCATION IN DAIRY SCIENCE.”
IL NACTA 2026
Modesto Junior College (MJC) School of Agriculture prepared for the annual North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) competition, held April 22–25, 2026, in Normal, Ill More than 40 community colleges and universities brought over 900 competitors to the event. MJC was represented by 36 students and seven instructors competing in more than 15 contests
CROP JUDGING
Preparation for the competition began April 16, when the MJC Crops and Soils teams traveled to Purdue University for training with Dr Gerber, head of the Crops Department, and Dr. Bradford, head of the Soils Department. This ongoing collaboration has continued for the past three years.
While at Purdue, students toured campus facilities and participated in a joint study session led by university teams. The session focused on contest structure, preparation strategies, and expectations for success at the national level
Following the lecture, Dr. Gerber led a crops lab while soils students worked separately with Dr. Bradford.
The MJC Crops Team practiced seed identification, fertilizer calculations, pesticide and herbicide label interpretation, and general plant science knowledge. The NACTA Crops Judging Contest includes applied math problems, identification of crops, weeds, seeds, insects, and equipment, as well as an agronomy exam covering crop production, soils, plant science, and pest management. After practice, Purdue students and Dr. Gerber reviewed answers and shared additional study strategies
SOIL JUDGING
Meanwhile, the MJC Soils Team trained with Dr Bradford, focusing on soil texture classification, soil survey interpretation, and soil profile evaluation. Students analyzed soil monoliths and practiced soil pit assessments alongside Purdue students, gaining hands-on experience in full soil profile analysis.
Students also participated in a greenhouse tour, where they worked with Purdue peers to identify weeds, crops, grasses, and forage species from official contest identification lists The hands-on experience allowed students to ask questions
BY ALEXIS DIAS & MADELINE ZWEEGMAN
NORMAL,
and reinforce identification skills in a real-world setting
After completing training at Purdue, both teams traveled to Normal, Ill., to continue preparation. Additional collaboration with Iowa State University and the University of Wisconsin–Platteville further strengthened student readiness and confidence.
DAIRY JUDGING
On April 19, the dairy judging team traveled to St Paul, Minn , where they trained through April 21 and toured the University of Minnesota Later that evening, they joined 17 additional MJC students in Chicago, Ill On April 22, teams toured Fair Oaks Farms before traveling to Purdue University and continuing on to Normal for the start of competition.
Following the week of competition, MJC School of Agriculture was named Reserve Champion Community College of Agriculture in the nation The program extends its gratitude to the college and community for their continued support of its teams
What are the goals of your operation?” This is a common question often asked of the MJC Beef Unit. The beef industry is divded into four specific production segments that have developed over time as ranchers sought profit through efficiency: seedstock, commercial cow-calf, stocker, and feedlot The seedstock segment, which focuses on purebreds and each breed’s defined set of traits of economic importance, is the foundation of beef production, and this is historically the role of MJC’s registered herd of Angus cattle
From one seedstock producer to another, the answer to the question is fairly simple. The Beef Unit’s goals are to produce calves with low birth weights, high growth, high docility, and acceptable foot scores. In fact, the Beef Unit just processed its first steer, which was the result of a Strong Workforce grant from 2022, where students researched what it would take to offer a branded beef product from the herd to the public. As a result, Rafter 99 beef sticks will be launched in fall 2026 at the MJC Country Store on East Campus.
The current herd consists of production-type registered Angus cattle from Vintage Angus in Modesto as well as
Bear Mountain Angus in Palisade, Nebraska These cattle have allowed the Beef Unit to meet their genetic herd goals.
To improve the phenotype of the MJC beef herd, a Small Workforce grant was awarded to fund a project that would invest in cattle to develop a show string of Angus here at MJC. Funding will cover the purchase of various forms of genetics, including show-bred embryos, semen from current show bulls, and bred heifers. Students will get the opportunity to dive a little deeper into the selection process and submit their suggestions for consideration as they build their show string. Plus, in the Beef Science course, they will see the veterinarian-guided process of embryo transfer from start to finish. The outcome will provide a much greater number of high-quality show calves that students in the Beef Fitting and Showing class can choose to show Students will then work with their assigned project and prepare it for the collegiate show. Over time, this investment will allow MJC to create a string of purebred Angus cattle that will make the college and its students proud to show.
Your Future Your Future
BEGINS HERE
Before sunrise on day one, twenty-two students and two instructors loaded onto a bus with anticipation, curiosity, and little idea of just how impactful the next three days would become. Their destination: some of California’s most innovative agricultural businesses, research facilities, and industry leaders. Their mission: to explore careers, technologies, and opportunities shaping the future of agriculture. What followed was far more than a field trip. It was a hands-on journey into the heart of California agriculture one that opened students’ eyes to new career pathways, cutting-edge innovation, and the people who make the industry thrive
PLANTING THE SEEDS OF OPPORTUNITY
The tour began in Santa Nella at Woods Transplant, where students were welcomed by Dave Woods and introduced to the remarkable process behind large-scale tomato production in California’s Central Valley Inside more than one hundred greenhouses, students witnessed the beginning stages of a crop that feeds millions
From automated seeding systems to greenhouse irrigation technology, students saw firsthand how precision and innovation work together to create healthy, high-quality transplants. Watching thousands of seedlings move through a highly organized production system gave students a new appreciation for the science and technology behind modern agriculture.
The group then traveled over the hill to Casa de Fruta, where students enjoyed lunch while experiencing the energy of a largescale farmer’s market For many, it was a full-circle moment seeing fresh produce being sold just hours after learning how those crops begin their journey in the greenhouse
The afternoon brought one of the tour’s most unique experiences: a visit to Global Mushrooms in Gilroy Hosted by Christi Chiala, students toured the state-of-the-art mushroom facility known for producing premium restaurantgrade mushrooms, including white button, crimini and portabella varieties. Students explored the growing rooms, learned about environmental controls necessary for mushroom production, and even harvested mushrooms themselves Sampling the different varieties quickly became a favorite experience for many students By evening, the group arrived in Watsonville for a working dinner at California Grill Industry professionals from the produce sector joined students at rotating tables, creating an atmosphere of conversation, mentorship, and networking. Discussions ranged from internships and college pathways to leadership opportunities and careers students had never previously considered.
From Ocean Science to Research Discovery
Day two shifted from agriculture to marine science with a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Students explored world-renowned exhibits featuring marine ecosystems, conservation efforts, and aquatic research. For some students, this was their first opportunity to experience the ocean up close. The educational experience continued at Hopkins Marine Station at Stanford University. Guided by researchers and graduate students, the group toured laboratories, classrooms, and outdoor research facilities overlooking the Pacific coast Students learned about ongoing coral research and participated in discussions about environmental sustainability and marine ecosystems One of the most memorable moments came during a beachside discussion examining why sea otters leave behind thousands of clam shells along the shoreline a real-world example of how scientific research continues to answer questions about natural ecosystems. The day concluded with an evening of fun and celebration at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Whether students were experiencing roller coasters for the first time or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the ocean, the experience strengthened friendships and created memories that will last a lifetime
The Future of Agriculture in Action
On the final morning, the group traveled to Salinas to visit Tanimura & Antle, one of the nation’s leading fresh produce companies. Throughout the
day, students interacted with company ambassadors and industry leaders who shared the company’s vision of innovation, sustainability, and employee ownership Beginning with introductions from Brian Antle and guided by tour facilitator Mark Adamek, students participated in hands-on learning experiences that showcased the future of agriculture From seed tape planting and AIpowered cultivators to witnessing lettuce harvest operations in the field, students experienced how technology is transforming food production Equally impactful were the honest conversations students had with employees about careers, internships, and personal journeys within the agricultural industry The openness and hospitality shown by the Tanimura & Antle team left a lasting impression on everyone involved
More Than a Trip
As the bus headed home, the conversations among students reflected the true success of the experience Discussions about internships, future careers, college pathways, and new interests filled the aisles Students spoke enthusiastically about opportunities they never knew existed and industries they now hope to pursue For many, the trip was more than educational it was transformational Experiences like these remind students that agriculture is far more than farming fields It is science, technology, research, business, sustainability, engineering, and innovation Most importantly, it is an industry filled with people willing to invest in the next generation
Thank you to every business, industry leader, and supporter who helped make this unforgettable experience possible and who continue to inspire the future leaders of agriculture!
NURTURING WHAT’S NEXT
How the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau Foundation is Planting Seeds of Agricultural Education
Growth does not happen overnight. In agriculture, prosperous crops begin with strong roots, steady care and an investment in the future. The same can be said for the work being done by the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau and its Foundation, which are planting seeds of agricultural education throughout the community to help future generations flourish For more than 100 years, the Farm Bureau has served as a voice for agriculture, and today, the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau Foundation is helping those efforts continue to grow.
According to Anna Genasci, Director of Education and Communication for the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau, the Foundation has allowed the organization to branch further into education while Farm Bureau continues advocating for local agriculture
“The Farm Bureau is over 100 years old, and we have to stay fresh
and timely, keeping up with changes,” Genasci said. “The Foundation gives us the opportunity to work in the education space while Farm Bureau continues member advocacy.”
One of the Foundation’s newest efforts is a summer agricultural literacy program launching June 2, 2026 through a partnership with the Stanislaus County Library system and sponsorship from the Modesto Irrigation District Running at all 13 county library branches through June and July, the program is designed to plant seeds of agricultural understanding through hands-on learning opportunities for children while also helping parents better understand where their food comes from.
Children will learn about Stanislaus County’s top commodities through activities such as commodity necklaces, educational books, and interactive lessons, including The Day the Farmer Quit, which encourages youth to imagine a world without
agriculture. The effort is supported by retired teachers and Modesto Junior College intern Neveah Russo, who is helping coordinate the project. The Foundation’s educational roots continue to grow through programs like Ag EdVenture, which introduces thousands of third-grade students to hands-on agricultural experiences, while grower workshops focused on sustainability and workforce development continue strengthening the local agricultural community
Like a crop nurtured over time, the Foundation continues to grow through scholarships, community partnerships and outreach events that connect people back to agriculture. By investing in education today, the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau Foundation is helping agriculture and the people connected to it continue to flourish for generations to come
WRITTEN BY DESTINY REYES
CAREER FAIR
Building on last year ’ s event with more than 20 agriculture employers, the fair connects students with Central Valley companies in production agriculture, dairy, livestock, equipment and ag services for internships, careers and networking opportunities. Each organization will receive an 8-by-10 booth space with one 8-foot table to share information about their company and available opportunities; no power will be provided, and battery-powered displays are recommended. Registration is $100, with proceeds supporting Ag Ambassador Leadership Conferences and student leadership programs.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN US AT THE FALL 2026 CAREER FAIR HOSTED BY THE MJC SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE
BATTLE FOR BATTLE FOR BATTLE FOR THE BANNER THE BANNER THE BANNER
WRITTEN BY KARAH QUARELS
As March approaches, there's a time when many college students across the state get ready for the most anticipated livestock event of the year, the California Collegiate Spring Livestock Show For many of our Modesto Junior College students, this is an opportunity to gain real, hands-on experience with livestock and truly learn more about the stock show industry. These students can enroll in any of our three spring courses: Beef Fitting & Showing with Instructor Jennifer Terpstra, Sheep/Goat Fitting & Showing with Instructor Tim Truax, or even our Swine Fitting & Showing with Instructor Mikaela Lamle.
Within these three months, these students swiftly learned how to care for their assigned livestock projects by fitting, feeding, grooming, and applying showmanship techniques with the help
of their instructor and fellow classmates Many of our students take these classes for a variety of reasons, whether that is to get out of their comfort zone, to show a new species, or to get back in the show ring after years of exhibiting livestock
“What I learned from this class was patience; I learned how to stay calm, keep working even when things were frustrating, and understand that success doesn't happen overnight," Maddy DeYoung, a student from the swine fitting and showing class, stated. “I took this class because I love showing and working with pigs, and it's something I want to do for the rest of my life ”
This amazing experience offers our college Students not only market and breeding shows but also features three
different Showmanship divisions with highly sought-after buckles and banners up for grabs The California Collegiate Spring Livestock Show is even more touching to the MJC students, with them not only being the exhibitors in the show but with them also being a part of the planning, organization, set up, and take down of the entire event. Modesto Junior College of Agriculture was able to debut this event in 2021 after finally bringing the 2019 pre-COVID plans into fruition. Registration for these amazing classes has grown steadily throughout the years, with just a year ago boasting 60+ head of cattle, 60+ head of sheep and goats, and 30+ head of swine We were also able to welcome the participating schools, such as the College of Sequoia, Merced College, Reedley College, and Fresno State, to our agriculture facilities
Res Supreme Champion Overall Gilt Champion Commercial Gilt
A LEGACY AWARDED A LEGACY AWARDED
The Modesto Junior College School of Agriculture has long been rooted in a tradition of excellence, leadership, and service. This spring, that legacy received one of its most meaningful recognitions to date, as the school was honored as the Chamber Member of the Year by the Greater Modesto Chamber of Commerce This award celebrates not only institutional achievement, but a commitment to the strength of the area’s business community and the success of its people
Established in 1921, Modesto Junior College stands among California’s oldest community colleges, serving as a cornerstone of education and workforce development in the Central Valley. From its earliest days, agriculture has been at the heart of that mission. For decades, the School of Agriculture has been recognized for its exceptional work, preparing students for careers at the heart of one of the nation’s most productive agricultural regions
The school’s addition of the ACE Ag Pavilion has served as a catalyst for their recent success. The pavilion is a facility that promotes both learning and community. More than a center for agricultural education, the pavilion has become a host to students, educators, industry professionals, and supporters to gather. Its role extends far beyond the classroom, serving as a center for events that directly benefit the school and greater community
Among these are the annual Ag Aware Luncheon and Harvest Luncheon, both of which raise vital scholarship funds. The Ag Aware Luncheon supports local high school FFA students, helping cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders, while the Harvest Luncheon invests directly in MJC agriculture students, reinforcing the department’s commitment to accessible education and opportunity
The pavilion also hosts large-scale community events that connect education with industry. The Chamber Foundation’s Touch-A-Truck event welcomes more than 5,000 attendees each year, offering hands-on experiences while raising funds for trades-based scholarships
BY MADELINE ZWEEGMAN
Similarly, the Inspire Youth, Inspire Dreams Career Exploration Expo provides students with valuable exposure to career pathways, bridging the gap between education and the workforce.
“THROUGH
THEIR WORK, THEY ARE CHANGING LIVES, BUILDING FUTURES, AND CREATING OPPORTUNITIES EVERY SINGLE DAY.”
When presenting the award, Chamber leader Kristie Boyett recognizes the work of MJC School of Agriculture, “Through their work, they are changing lives, building futures, and creating opportunities every single day.”
Being named Chamber Member of the Year is both an honor and a reflection of decades of dedication This award affirms that the MJC School of Agriculture’s influence extends far beyond its campus walls
AWARDED 190 degrees
AWARDED 214 certificates WERE SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE STUDENTS 15% 15% ofMJC’s total graduates
STUDENTS STUDENTS of Excellence of Excellence
FORTHE FIRSTYEAR,THE MJC SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE RECOGNIZED STUDENTS WHO WENT ABOVE AND BEYONDTHEIR PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS CONGRATULATIONSTO OUR 2026 STUDENTS OF EXCELLENCE PROGRAM AREA AWARD WINNERS!
