Thanks to FARMS, I had the opportunity to visit the homeland of the NSF AgTech Engine.
Gretchen, my boss, picked me up from Fargo’s airport, posing as a greenhouse. As we drove, I was struck by how green and alive everything was. Even so, some of those growing “stations” were tied to the AgTech Engine itself, which I found fascinating.
That first evening, Gretchen and I went to a diner for chicken sandwiches and bonded over our love of reading and shared denial of anything math related. It was the perfect warm-up for the week ahead.
The next morning, work began at NDSU, the FARMS office headquarters. I met my colleagues the week prior over Zoom, but being in person brought a whole new depth to the work and the people I get to do it with.
The FARMS team even surprised me with donuts on my first morning to celebrate my arrival and yes, the blueberry donut was pristine. We spent time reviewing agendas, goals and a sturdy lineup of acronyms. As a remote intern, I felt privileged to be surrounded by the team in person. The atmosphere FARMS creates in a room or zoom is inspiring and full of kindness. I always felt welcomed to be myself and introduce ideas, such as an Instagram account.
Walking across NDSU’s campus toward the cafeteria, I felt a sense of familiarity, like being at OU but with lush green surroundings replacing my familiar red brick campus.
Back at the office, Gretchen, Langston, Allison and I dove into communications planning.
The following morning, Gretchen and I returned to the office before heading to sit in on Langston’s evening class at NDSU, once we found the classroom. His lesson discussed food sovereignty and how FARMS technology-driven solutions strengthen food security and community resilience.
Later that day, my colleague Ayanna and I explored downtown Fargo, making sure to support local businesses along the way. We grabbed lunch at a Teddy Roosevelt–inspired restaurant.
10/10 recommend grilled cheese and tomato soup.
That evening, we headed to the home of Ms. Hollie, FARMS’ CEO and PI. Her lush, vibrant garden set the perfect backdrop for a dinner that felt both personal and celebratory. In addition to her garden, she had the most beautiful hot air balloon that lit when sun was down.
The apex of the Prairie and Pasture Party (thanks to Wanbli, the bison expert) was the bison: sourced from DuBray Ranch on the Cheyenne River Reservation, processed at Wozu during their community harvest, and donated by Wozu. Sharing that meal together, grounded in culture and connection, was incredibly meaningful.
Farewell Fargo and FARMS… Thank you!
