My Story
Wife | Mom | Farmer | International Ag Educator
Hi there! I am Dr. Jessica M. Graves, "farm-raised" in Vance, AL. My family focused on raising commercial cow-calf pairs, vegetables, and cut flowers. I owe so much credit to the 5 generations before me whose passion for agriculture was passed along to instill in me a deep desire to continue to farm family legacy.
I now reside in Starkville, MS with my husband and two children where we raise and direct-market beef. I wouldn't be where I am today if it hadn't been for people who poured into me to develop my knowledge and skills through opportunities that allowed me to grow! So, you can find me most days doing the same for others; teaching university-level agricultural courses, mentoring students, and leading international capacity development teams.
From my early years on the farm to my work in international capacity development, I have always believed in the power of faith and education to transform communities.
Women in Ag: Honoring the Generations
I hail from a line of strong women in agriculture. The matriarchs on my family's farm have been instrumental in my life as I learned how to balance the joys and hardships that come with farming and raising livestock while staying grounded in my faith. I enjoy the time I get to spend equipping the next farm-raised generation.
Back: June Fountain, Rozelle Fountain
Front: Jessica Martin Graves, Carol Boyd Martin
L-R: Rozelle Fountain, June Fountain, Carol B. Martin, Jessica M. Graves
Our Family
