The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with Scott Hamilton features three voices shaping the future of North Carolina agriculture. They answer the question: What happens when scientists, extension specialists, and farmers tackle agriculture’s toughest challenges together?
North Carolina agriculture remains one of the state’s greatest economic strengths. According to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the industry generates more than $100 billion in economic impact each year, supporting farmers, agribusinesses, researchers, and rural communities across the state.
North Carolina’s community colleges are using creative strategies to recruit career and technical instructional roles. Golden LEAF Programs staff see firsthand these real challenges in the workforce preparedness projects they manage. Whether the Golden LEAF funds awarded support a new advanced manufacturing lab, a nursing expansion, or a skilled trades facility, one reality consistently surfaces: buildings and equipment are only part of the equation. Qualified instructors are often the critical ingredient.
What happens when opportunity meets rural community pride? In this episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations, host Scott T. Hamilton talks with a current Golden LEAF Scholar, a Scholar Alumna, and an internship site host to show exactly how the Golden LEAF Scholarship and Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative change lives and shapes communities across North Carolina.
Golden LEAF Critical Conversations has officially moved to a podcast format and is now available for download on Spotify, making it easier than ever to listen on your schedule.
Hosted by Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton, Golden LEAF Critical Conversations features conversations with professionals about the most pressing economic development issues shaping communities across North Carolina.
Recently, Golden LEAF President and Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton sat down with Reggie Strickland, president and Chief Executive Officer of Strickland Farming and a participant in the NC Ag Leads strategic planning process, via Zoom and filmed an episode of Critical Conversations. In this series, Scott talks with professionals about economic development issues affecting the state.
Happy Thanksgiving! As we gather with family and friends this week, I’ve been reflecting on the past year and the many reasons I’m grateful. This month marked my sixth anniversary as president of Golden LEAF, which gives me an opportunity to pause and appreciate the impact made across North Carolina’s rural communities. I am grateful for the determination of rural leaders who continue to build and implement thoughtful economic development strategies.
Recently, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton sat down with Mary Shuping, Executive Director of the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA), via Zoom and filmed an episode of Critical Conversations. In this series, Scott talks with professionals about economic development issues affecting the state.
If you are planning to apply for Golden LEAF funding through any Golden LEAF program, teamwork is essential to successful project implementation.
Each Golden LEAF project is supported by two Golden LEAF staff members: a Primary Staff member (typically a Program Officer) and a Program Lead. This model ensures there is always more than one point of contact to answer questions, provide guidance, and keep your project moving forward. Our goal is to help you reach your milestones and outcomes as efficiently and effectively as possible.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina has shown remarkable strength, determination, and collaboration. Communities across the region continue to work tirelessly to recover and rebuild, not only restoring what was lost but also laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient future.
