The Haupert Institute for Agricultural Studies at Huntington University is putting down deep roots for the future with the appointment of Dr. Jessi Haeft as its newest associate professor.
Bringing a wealth of hands-on expertise in soil health, precision agriculture, and agroecology, Haeft steps into her new role after spending 12 years at Ball State University. There, she built a reputation for rigorous academics and practical instruction, teaching courses ranging from sustainable agriculture to natural resource management.
For the historic agricultural communities of Indiana, Haeft is far from a stranger. Throughout her career, she has forged strong partnerships with local FFA chapters and collaborated closely with agricultural industry leaders at local, regional, and state levels.
Dr. Luke Fetters, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty, emphasized the immediate impact Haeft’s background will have on the campus.
“Dr. Haeft brings years of teaching experience and high-level scholarship across a broad range of topics in agriculture,” said Fetters. “She is well-respected in the region, having partnered with local FFA chapters as well as agriculture industry leaders.”
A Hands-On Philosophy in the Field
Known for her dedication to experiential learning, Haeft’s teaching philosophy centers on moving beyond textbook theory and into the dirt. Throughout her career, she has engineered opportunities for students to tackle real-world agricultural challenges through applied research projects, student-managed farms, and vital conservation initiatives.
That pragmatic approach made her a natural fit for Huntington University’s growing agricultural footprint, according to Dr. Jessica Graves, director of the Haupert Institute for Agricultural Studies.
“I’m elated to have Dr. Haeft on the HU ag team,” said Graves. “She brings with her a diverse portfolio of coast-to-coast agricultural production experiences.”
Graves also noted how seamlessly Haeft’s personal values align with the institution’s core mission of combining academic excellence with spiritual mentorship.
“Her tenure of teaching and equipping students through classroom instruction and experiential learning activities, coupled with her passion to mentor students through a Christ-centric lens, will enhance the unique learning environment within the Haupert Institute,” Graves added. “She is a living example of the faith, family, and farming foundation that we stand upon, and the future is bright for HU ag!”
From Cal Poly to Kentucky and the Hoosier State
Haeft’s academic journey reflects a coast-to-coast dedication to the science of farming. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in animal science and a Master of Science degree in agriculture from California Polytechnic State University. She then headed east to complete her PhD in agriculture, specializing in soil science, at the University of Kentucky.
As she settles into her new office at Huntington University, Haeft is eager to hit the ground running—combining her deep-seated passion for the land with a commitment to preparing the next generation of Hoosier agriculturists for successful, hands-on careers in the industry.
