From Seed to Study: A JJC Alum's Impact on Agricultural Education and Research
In this episode of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis welcomes Julie Barr, an alum and Land Lab manager at JJC. Known affectionately as 'Farmer Julie,' she shares the story of her unique path into agriculture, starting from her rural upbringing in LaSalle, Peru, Illinois. Despite not having a farming background, Julie found her passion for agriculture through experiences with her best friend's cattle farm and her involvement in FFA during high school. She discusses her educational journey from IVCC to the University of Illinois, and finally to JJC, where influential mentors like Bill Johnson helped her carve a successful career in the agricultural industry. Julie gives listeners an inside look at the diverse responsibilities she manages on the campus Land Lab, the importance of hands-on experience, and the unique opportunities JJC provides for students in the agriculture and horticulture program.
The episode highlights Julie's enthusiasm for teaching and mentoring the next generation of agricultural professionals and offers valuable advice for aspiring farmers and students. Her passion for her work is evident as she talks about the exciting projects and research initiatives happening on the Land Lab, and the collaborative spirit within the department. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about dedication, growth, and the beautiful unpredictability of farm life.
Creators and Guests
Host
Jen Davis
Jen Davis currently serves as the Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager at Joliet Junior College. As a former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education serving students at various points in their educational and professional careers. In her current role, Jen works to foster meaningful relationships with JJC alumni, bridging past experiences with present opportunities. Her outreach efforts include planning small and large-scale events, designing and executing yearly social media, direct mail and e-campaigns, and collaborating with other departments on campus to keep alumni engaged and connected. On occasion, Jen will also expand her role to that of JJC’s mascot, Wiley Wolf, for on-campus events and print media.
Producer
Amanda Quinn
Amanda Quinn currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement at Joliet Junior College, where she leads the college's fundraising efforts with a focus on major gifts and corporate support. With over 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda aligns fundraising strategies with the college’s priorities to ensure growth and success. She has a proven track record of enhancing annual fund programs, organizing key events, and cultivating valuable relationships with donors. Amanda's strategic vision and dedication have significantly contributed to the advancement of Joliet Junior College.
Guest
Julie Barr
Though she did not grow up on a farm, Julie Barr has always had an interest and appreciation for the ag industry, which directed her to enroll in the Agriculture Department at JJC (2011 graduate). Winding through squiggly college pathways and working on a hog and grain farm for nine plus years, the dust settled four and a half years ago when she became the J.F. Richards Land Laboratory & Agronomy Plots Manager at JJC. As the manager, she is in charge of planning, planting, maintaining, and harvesting the farm fields at Main Campus and Weitendorf Agriculture Education Center, which are broken down into small plots to execute a variety of studies and trials. She assists the agriculture professors with setting up weekly labs in the plots, organizes an annual Field Day, and writes an annual season report describing the arrangement and results of each study. Julie is also in charge of performing the maintenance on all the equipment, such as tractors, implements, combine harvester, etc.
