Endowment Established To Support WSU’s Organic Farm

Washington State University’s Eggert Family Organic Farm is getting a major boost for the future. WSU alumni Jim Huff and Sue Fairbanks have created a new $150,000 endowment to support the teaching and research farm outside of Pullman.

At the couple’s request, the interest generated by the endowment will be used at the farm’s discretion, said Farm Manager Brad Jaeckel. The funds will primarily support educational experiences for students, including paid internships. It will also help cover staff and equipment costs. Previous donations from the couple have helped support similar needs.

“We’re excited for the support the endowment will provide,” Jaeckel said. “It will allow us to stay on track with our current projects and support our mission as a teaching farm by providing student research opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.”

The Eggert Farm Has Helped Generations Of Cougars

The farm has been used for more than two decades giving students hands-on experience with organic agriculture, while also serving the community through produce sales, cherry picking, and pumpkin harvests.

“We hope the endowment will benefit many future generations,” Huff said. “Sue and I feel very strongly about giving back, and this is one way for us to do so in the community where we spent part of our youth.”

John Reganold, a Regents Professor Emeritus in WSU’s Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, was instrumental in establishing both the farm and the organic and sustainable agriculture major. He noted that the farm offers a critical resource for those with no agriculture experience.

“Students, especially those who don’t come from an agricultural background, get to see a farm in operation and learn firsthand about seed planting, growing food, harvesting plants, and selling produce,” he said.

Reganold has worked closely with the couple to ensure their vision for the donation is realized.

Hopefully This Gift Will Encouraged Sustainable Ag

“We are deeply appreciative of Sue and Jim’s gift and humbled by their generosity,” said Raj Khosla, Cashup Davis Family Endowed Dean of WSU’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences. “This endowment will support future generations of students, ensuring they can continue to learn and gain valuable firsthand experience with organic agriculture practices.”

Huff and Fairbanks, both longtime supporters of organic farming, say they hope the gift encourages more interest in where food comes from and helps future generations continue exploring sustainable agriculture.