Agnes Scott College has been recognized with the esteemed Farmer Champion Award by Georgia Organics, celebrating its unwavering commitment to strengthening local food systems and supporting sustainable agriculture. The award was presented in conjunction with the SOWTH Conference, a convening of more than 1,400 farmers and leaders dedicated to building a strong agricultural movement across the South.

Through its partnership with The Georgia ACRE Collective, The Common Market, and other local food initiatives, Agnes Scott College has exemplified leadership in sourcing fresh, sustainably grown food while fostering meaningful relationships with regional farmers. The college was honored with the award for its commitment to serving students local food and its consistent, meaningful purchases of locally sourced foods.

In 2024, Agnes Scott made forward commitments to area farmers through its local food distributor, The Common Market. Their purchases supported 19 regional farmers and producers.

“We are honored to receive this award and proud to be part of a movement that prioritizes healthy, sustainable food for our campus and beyond,” said Nicole Long, Vice President, Finance and Administration at Agnes Scott College. “Our collaboration with farmers and organizations like Georgia Organics and The Common Market allows us to make a lasting impact on both our students and the broader community.”

The Farmer Champion Award program, now in its fifth year, works to connect local farmers with the food service community and increase local purchasing. By highlighting businesses that source responsibly, the program aims to raise awareness about local sourcing and help Georgia’s diverse network of small farms thrive. Agnes Scott College joins Mercer University, Oglethorpe University, and Spelman College, as the inaugural class of college and university awardees. They join a growing list of champions from restaurants, caterers, and early care and education centers working to create a more resilient and equitable food system in Georgia and beyond.

The SOWTH Conference, hosted by Georgia Organics, brings together farmers, educators, policymakers, and food advocates to discuss the future of food in the region. The event serves as a platform for sharing innovative solutions, strengthening partnerships, and celebrating leaders like Agnes Scott College who pave the way for a more sustainable future. Bill Green, Executive Director of The Common Market Southeast, was joined by Georgia’s Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper to distribute the awards. 

For more information on Agnes Scott College’s sustainability initiatives, visit agnesscott.edu. To learn more about Georgia Organics and the Farmer Champion Program, visit https://farmerchampion.georgiaorganics.org/localsourcing.