By Andi Anderson
Former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, a two-time graduate of Michigan State University (MSU), recently shared her perspectives on the future of American agriculture and food policy during the second annual Stuckman Lecture in Food Economics and Policy. Drawing on five decades of public service, she discussed how policy, research, funding, and markets can work together to strengthen agriculture and support rural communities.
The event was hosted by the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics within MSU's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The lecture, titled “The Future of Food and Farm Policy,” focused on creating a stronger and more resilient food system that benefits farmers, consumers, and communities across the country.
MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. praised Stabenow's long-standing commitment to agriculture and education.
“Sen. Stabenow has done so much for Michigan and the agricultural community through her leadership of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, and we’re honored that she shared her insights on good food and good governance with us,” said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. “We appreciate her ongoing partnership with MSU also as a member of our Green and White Council, lending her insight and helping us better prepare today’s students for high-impact careers.”
Throughout her career, Stabenow served as a county commissioner, state legislator, congresswoman, and U.S. senator. She also became the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Michigan. From 2011 until her retirement in 2025, she served as chair or ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry and played a leading role in the passage of multiple Farm Bills.
One of her major achievements came in 2008 when she authored the first specialty crop title in the Farm Bill. This important measure expanded federal support for growers of fruits, vegetables, hops, and nursery plants. The initiative was especially meaningful for Michigan, a state recognized for its diverse agricultural production.
Stabenow also championed conservation programs that protect land and water resources while supporting nutrition assistance initiatives that help millions of families access healthy food.
During her lecture, she emphasized three key priorities that should guide every Farm Bill: keeping farmers farming, keeping families fed, and keeping rural communities strong. These goals, she explained, remain essential to building a sustainable agricultural future.
David Ortega, holder of the Stuckman Chair in Food Economics and Policy, highlighted Stabenow's influence on agricultural policy and research.
“Few people have shaped how this country grows, buys and eats its food more than Sen. Stabenow,” said David Ortega, who holds the Stuckman Chair in Food Economics and Policy. “She has seen the Farm Bill from every angle, and she understands both the economics and the human stakes. Hearing that perspective at MSU, where so much of the research behind these policies happens, was a rare opportunity for our students and our community.”
Ortega also reflected on his early interactions with Stabenow's office and its commitment to evidence-based policymaking.
“I remember thinking they must have called the wrong person — I was a brand-new assistant professor,” Ortega said. “But it told me how seriously she and her team took the issues facing Michigan agriculture. They went looking for the evidence, wherever it was.”
He further noted the significance of her official portrait as chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
“When she chose how she wanted to be remembered as chair, she chose Michigan agriculture,” Ortega said.
Stabenow's lecture demonstrated the important connection between research, public policy, and agricultural progress. Her vision for supporting farmers, protecting natural resources, strengthening nutrition programs, and building vibrant rural communities continues to influence discussions about the future of food and agriculture in the United States.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle