On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Virginia State University hosted its annual AgFest, a campus-wide event held in celebration of National Agriculture Day. The festival aims to spread awareness about agriculture and highlight its impact on everyday life.
Now in its fourth year, AgFest continues to grow, offering a variety of interactive activities, programs, and exhibits for students and community members to enjoy. The event showcases the College of Agriculture and emphasizes the many ways agriculture connects to daily living.
Erica Shambley, Director of Marketing and Communications for VSU’s College of Agriculture, provided insight into the purpose of this year’s event and its significance.
“When you think about agriculture, that’s farming down to the foods you eat, how you move your body, textiles, your environment, climate, water — you cannot live without agriculture,” Shambley said.
AgFest serves as a reminder that agriculture plays a vital role in everyday life, even in ways that often go unnoticed. The event also creates opportunities for students to explore potential careers and gain hands-on experience in the field.
“Being able to connect what we have going on at the farm, on campus, and in the community… students can find internships, community service, and hands-on opportunities,” Shambley added.
In addition to faculty perspectives, students shared their experiences and reactions to the event. Many highlighted the welcoming atmosphere and engaging activities as key takeaways.
“This is my second time coming to AgFest, and I really enjoyed the energy—especially buying plants, the food, and how we can all come together and enjoy nature,” Phylicia Thompson said.
Other College of Agriculture students like Jelani Monroe, President of the VSU Horticultural Organization, attended AgFest with their organization and enjoyed participating in the events.
“I want to get hands-on experience with plants and help other students do so as well,” Monroe said. “We go to school and hear a lot of theory but we don’t get as much practical experience. That’s why the horticultural club is here and running.”
At the Horticultural Org’s booth they had Aloe vera, spider plants and Mother of Thousands. The plants that they had for sale are all grown in their greenhouses and onsite. Monroe explained that the plants for the most part are easy to grow, and like in the case of the spider plants, helpful for air quality and other conditions.
As AgFest continues to expand each year, it remains an important event that not only celebrates agriculture but also educates and connects the VSU community.
