Tacos, Trivia and the Future of Agriculture: MFBF Hosts Collegiate Night at MSU
By: Sophia Owens
Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation recently hosted a Tacos and Trivia Collegiate Farm Bureau event for students pursuing or interested in agriculture-related fields of study. The occasion, held at the Mill at Mississippi State University, brought together students, faculty, and MFBF leadership to encourage connection, professional development, and engagement within the agriculture community.
Students in attendance emphasized the importance of networking and building relationships with others who share similar backgrounds and interests in agriculture.
Kaydie Huddleston, a junior majoring in agricultural education, leadership, and communications with a concentration in industry leadership, said she attended the event to connect with others who share her passion for agriculture.
“I have had a love for agriculture since I was little, and I just want to give back to the community that’s given me so much,” said Huddleston, who also serves as an Ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at MSU.
In addition to networking, the event offered a relaxed and interactive environment where students participated in agriculture-themed trivia, with winners earning prizes. The activity not only encouraged friendly competition but also gave attendees a chance to engage more deeply with industry knowledge while connecting with peers.
Students with strong ties to the agricultural industry saw the event as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of Mississippi Farm Bureau. Dominick Lamartina, a senior in animal and dairy science with a pre-veterinary concentration, said he attended to learn more about the organization and become more involved.
“I am planning on going to vet school, and I have my own small commercial cow-calf operation back home,” Lamartina said. “I also am secretary of Collegiate Cattleman’s here at Mississippi State, so I’m passionate about promoting the industry.”
The presence of Mississippi State faculty at the event reinforced the university’s commitment to supporting student success, while also highlighting how organizations like Mississippi Farm Bureau can open doors for students by strengthening connections within the agricultural industry.
Dr. Darrell Sparks, associate dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at MSU, explained that events like this help students recognize the value of getting involved in organizations beyond campus that can benefit them both now and in their future careers.
“Our students are the next generation of leaders in agriculture; therefore, it is important that they connect with Mississippi Farm Bureau as it serves as both an advocate as well as a hub to develop life-long connections,” Sparks said.
Through initiatives like this, Sparks emphasized the university’s commitment to actively supporting students beyond the classroom.
“I hope students see that their college and university leadership care about them,” Sparks said. “Mississippi State University exists first and foremost to serve its students, and I want our students to have as many opportunities as possible to connect with stakeholder groups like Mississippi Farm Bureau.”
Mississippi Farm Bureau representatives provided an overview of the organization, highlighting its mission to support agricultural education, advocacy, and leadership development across the state. This introduction helped students better understand how they can become involved and benefit from the organization both during college and in their future careers.
Samantha Laird, MFBF’s leadership development coordinator who oversees the Young Farmers & Ranchers program, emphasized that the event plays a key role in building early connections with students and preparing them for future leadership roles.
“We hope to provide students with early opportunities to develop leadership and advocacy skills while taking advantage of programs available to them, helping build stronger, more engaged Farm Bureau members.” Laird said. “In turn, developing these students as leaders strengthens the organization and creates a stronger legacy, while teaching valuable life and professional skills they can carry into the agriculture industry and their communities across Mississippi.”
Laird said her commitment to Farm Bureau is personal, shaped by her involvement from a young age, which continues to drive her passion for connecting students with the organization today.
“I grew up attending Farm Bureau meetings and events, and I truly believe it’s an exceptional organization with outstanding people. It’s been incredibly impactful in my life, and sharing that experience with others means everything to me,” Laird said.
Through events like Tacos and Trivia, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation advances its mission by preparing the next generation to lead and advocate for agriculture across Mississippi and beyond.
