North Carolina

NC AgrAbility Graduate Assistant Evan Hairston participated at the 11th Annual CAES Student Showcase of Excellence at NC A&T State University on September 7. Evan presented a poster titled "Networking and Helping Farmers with NC AgrAbility." The purpose of this activity was to display the summer experiences of students participating in internships, study abroad, research, and other programs to the broader university community. Eighty students shared their poster presentations and 130 attendees learned about their experiences.

On September 23, NC AgrAbility participated at the Farmer Veteran Coalition of North Carolina Educational Conference as an organizer and presenter. The Veteran Affairs Veteran Readiness and Employment Counselor Christiane Russell presented the services under chapter 33 and 31 available to veteran farmers. The NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Assistant Administrator Kenny Gibbs presented the policy and services available to farmers with disabilities. And NC AgrAbility Manager Betty Rodriguez wrapped up with the collaborative work between the three programs to increase access to services among farmers with disabilities. Thirty-eight people attended the presentation.

NC AgrAbility presented "AT for the Best Stewards of the Land: Our Farmers" at the NC Assistive Technology Program EXPO on September 29. The event showcases the use of assistive technology among different groups, disabilities, and programs, and manufacturers exhibited technologies. Farmer Beverly Bowen presented along with NC AgrAbility Manager Betty Rodriguez.

Submitted by Beatriz (Betty) Rodriguez