Ruth Hambleton, founder of Annie’s Project, and Linda Barnes, creator of the Entrepreneurial and Diversified Agriculture program, were named Rural Champions of Change by the White House. Both innovative educators partner with ISU Extension and Outreach.
Hambleton, an Illinois educator, said ISU Extension is the reason Annie’s Project has expanded to provide women in 26 states with farm business management education. Barnes, a Marshalltown Community College professor of biology and organic farmer, said she appreciates the Iowa State research and outreach that supports regional food systems and consumer education on the health benefits of eating locally.