WINNERS OF THE 2021 ANDY HANKINS SMALL FARMER OF THE YEAR, VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR, AND REGIONAL PROGRAM ASSISTANT OF THE YEAR AWARDS ANNOUNCED AT ANNUAL SMALL FARM OUTREACH PROGRAM CONFERENCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 13, 2021

Contact: Michelle Olgers, Marketing & Communications Dept., 804-524-6964, molgers@vsu.edu

ROANOKE, VA. – The Virginia Cooperative Extension Small Farm Outreach Program (SFOP) at Virginia State University concluded the annual Small Farm Outreach Conference at the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center in Roanoke, Virginia on Saturday, November 20, 2021, by announcing the winners of this year’s SFOP awards.

Mark and Lona Chandler were the recipients of the Andy Hankins Small Farmer of the Year Award. They operate Chandler’s Gardens and Greenhouses in Scottsburg, VA, where they produce crops including cabbage, broccoli, collards, and chard, as well as an abundance of flower species. Mr. William Crutchfield, Director of the Small Farm Outreach Program at Virginia State University, says “the Chandlers are the epitome of successful small farmers in Halifax County who are eager to learn, and willing to share their knowledge with other small farmers.”

Dennis and Sarah Williams were named the Volunteers of the Year. They run Bees Knees Farm and Creamery in West Point, VA. Their passion is using regenerative and compassionate farming practices for their land, and the meat and cheese products they produce. Says Mr. Crutchfield, “the SFOP could not succeed without individuals like the Williams. We are very thankful for their assistance with workshops and field days.”

Roland Terrell was named Regional Program Assistant of the Year. He serves farmers in Albemarle, Nelson, Greene, Orange, Spotsylvania, Louisa, Fluvanna, and Goochland counties. “Roland’s work ethic has always been excellent,” says Mr. Crutchfield. “His outstanding service to small farmers and ranchers shows that farming has always been in his blood. He’s very dedicated to giving farmers the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

Virginia State University congratulates 2021’s award winners!

Last year’s winners were announced virtually, due to COVID-19. The Small Farm Outreach Program is pleased to have hosted the annual conference in person again this year.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

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