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.
Her connection to Huntington predates the appointment. Graves has served as an adjunct professor since 2024, helping design an international agriculture track within the university’s MBA program and coordinating overseas mission experiences for students—initiatives that reflect a broader push to prepare graduates for both domestic and global agricultural challenges.
In interviews and prepared remarks, Graves framed her new role as an opportunity to expand the institute’s influence while maintaining its religious foundation. She emphasized building partnerships with farmers, agribusiness leaders and educators, and positioning the program as a space where technical training and faith-based values intersect.
Huntington University President Robert Pepper said Graves’ “global perspective” and experience in both classroom instruction and applied agriculture would strengthen the university’s offerings and deepen its impact beyond campus.
The appointment comes at a moment when agricultural education programs are increasingly being called upon to address workforce shortages, sustainability concerns and global food demand. Huntington is among a relatively small group of evangelical universities offering a four-year agriculture degree, a niche that school leaders say reflects a growing interest in aligning agricultural careers with faith-driven stewardship.
Graves said she plans to continue her work with the M4 Institute alongside her responsibilities at Huntington, a dual role that could further connect students with international agricultural development efforts.
