Strong agricultural education programs are not built in isolation. They grow when teachers intentionally develop relationships with administrators, counselors, district leaders, school board members, elected officials, industry partners, parents, and community stakeholders. This workshop will help agricultural educators think strategically about program advocacy, communication, recruitment, and stakeholder engagement. Led by two former agriculture teachers turned administrators, supporting some of the largest agriculture programs in Tennessee, this session will offer perspectives from both sides of the desk. Participants will explore what administrators need to understand about agricultural education, how teachers can communicate program needs effectively, and how relationships can strengthen enrollment, resources, facilities, staffing, and community support. Participants will leave with a practical action plan for building champions for their local program.
