This summer, more than 200 alumni, friends, and family members gathered for the University of Mount Olive’s inaugural Ag Alumni Reunion. Held at the George R. Kornegay Student Farm, the event celebrated the 19-year history of UMO’s ag programs, as well as provided guests with a glimpse of future plans. The event included games, live music, and guided tours of the student farm. Throughout the reunion, alumni reconnected and shared stories and experiences of their time at UMO.

Dr. Sandy Maddox, Dean for the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, shared experiences from her 15 years at the University. She praised student leadership for helping shape the program and attributed the program’s uniqueness and success to the talented faculty and staff and their dedication to students.

University of Mount Olive President Dr. H. Edward Croom also addressed the group. As a parent of a UMO agriculture alumnus, Dr. Croom noted the impact that the program made on his youngest son, Jonathan, not only in terms of education, but also in connections, faith, and values.Dr. Croom thanked the supporters that made the student farm possible including Donnie Lassiter and his family and the George R. Kornegay, Jr. family. Stephanie Kornegay, daughter of the late George R. Kornegay, attended the event and recalled her experiences with UMO students. She expressed the excitement that her family has in seeing all of the success that is taking place at the student farm.

Recent agribusiness graduate Kristen Miller attended the event with her parents and brother, who is currently enrolled at UMO. She said, “The Ag Alumni event was an absolute joy. We enjoyed sharing our experience with our family and interacting with other graduates and their families.”