Ag One Unveils Game-Changing Partnership Program to Fuel the Future of Agriculture

In a bold move to strengthen the connection between industry and education, Ag One officially launched its new Corporate Partnership Program Thursday morning at Fresno State’s Jordan Agricultural Research Center. The press conference marked a significant milestone in supporting ag students, enhancing career readiness, and inviting businesses to invest in the future of California agriculture.

A Vision Brought to Life

The event featured remarks from the Ag One and the Jordan College leadership team, including Executive Director Shannon Birkner, Dean Rolston St. Hilaire, and Farm Operations Manager Vince Roos, all of whom emphasized the strategic vision behind the new initiative.

“For decades, we’ve been fortunate to work with generous donors through our Annual Membership Program,” said Shannon Birkner, Executive Director of the Ag One Foundation. “Today, we’re building on that tradition by launching a new Corporate Partnership Program designed to deepen engagement with our stakeholders — creating more opportunities for students and strengthening ties with the ag industry.”

The First Step: A Corporate Kickoff

To kick off the program, Fresno Equipment Company was recognized as Ag One’s first official corporate partner. A long-time supporter of Fresno State and the Jordan College, Fresno Equipment is helping to set the tone and the bar for what industry engagement can look like.

Dean Rolston St. Hilaire of the Jordan College noted that partnerships like these allow students to “engage with modern agricultural equipment, build critical equipment management skills through real-world exposure, and connect with potential employers before graduation.”

Owner Marsha Vucovich of Fresno Equipment emphasized the long-standing commitment: “We’re proud to be the first. Our hope is that this inspires others in the ag industry to join in and partner with the Ag One Foundation.”

What Is the Ag One Corporate Partnership Program?

The Ag One Corporate Partnership Program was designed to support Fresno State’s Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology by engaging more deeply with industry — empowering students with opportunities to grow and thrive.

How students benefit:

• Over 5,500 students have already received support through Ag One

• $1 million in scholarships will be awarded this academic year

• Students gain access to opportunities to connect with industry through guest lectures, tours, and mentorship

• Real-world exposure helps them graduate ready to lead and innovate

  
  

What businesses gain from being a Corporate Partner:

• Presence at high-profile events like the Ag Boosters BBQ and Ag One Trap Shoot

• Access to a pipeline of skilled ag students and future employees

• Opportunities to host on-campus experiences and build named funds

• Visibility and thought leadership within the Central Valley ag community

  
  

Building a Future Together

If you are a business looking to invest in the next generation of ag leaders, the Ag One Corporate Partnership Program offers a meaningful way to stay connected, contribute to student success, and help shape the direction of California agriculture.

As the press conference wrapped, the message was clear: Ag One’s new chapter isn’t just about one partnership—it’s about building a network of shared purpose, rooted in the strength and vision of the Central Valley’s agricultural community.