14 TOWER | FALL 2024 Kutztown University works with renowned Rodale Institute to prepare a new generation of agricultural scientists. BY VICKI MAYK Junior Ava Esterly is so committed to a career in regenerative organic agriculture that she transferred to Kutztown University to study it. Esterly, a native of Pottstown, Pa., became interested in regenerative organic agriculture studying abroad in Spain while enrolled at another university. The farming practice promotes soil health while avoiding the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. After returning to the U.S., she researched internships at Rodale Institute, the world’s leader in advancing regenerative organic agriculture. Through her search, Esterly learned about a unique undergraduate program at KU focusing on regenerative organic agriculture. The program, launched in 2022, is a dedicated track within KU’s environmental science major. It was developed in partnership with Rodale. In spring 2024, Esterly completed her first year as an environmental science major in the regenerative organic agriculture track, followed by a 12-week summer internship at Rodale Institute farm, just six miles from KU’s campus. Now a junior, Esterly says regenerative organic agriculture marries many of her interests. “Food systems are related to so many aspects of our lives and to our ecology,” says Esterly, whose long-term career goal is research. “Studying about them is a really great intersection of so many important topics.” The importance was underscored in February 2024, when the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development awarded a $1.5 million grant to support KU’s regenerative organic agriculture track. State Rep. Mark Rozzi ’96 played a pivotal role in securing the funding. PARTNERING FOR CHANGE FEATURE KU student Ava Esterly ’26
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