Agents awarded for role in Virginia’s Hurricane Helene recovery

The Virginia Agribusiness Council has honored Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) agents for their incredible efforts after Hurricane Helene. These agents, working in 21 counties across Southwest Virginia, received the 2025 Land Grant University Award. The award highlights their leadership and commitment to helping their communities recover after the devastating hurricane.

The surprise recognition

The recognition came as a surprise during Virginia Cooperative Extension’s recent winter conference. Around 450 people gathered at the Inn at Virginia Tech for the event. Jim Riddell, a retired Extension leader, was expected to speak about the history of Extension. Instead, Riddell, who is also vice president of the Virginia Agribusiness Council’s board of directors, presented the agents with the prestigious Land Grant University Award.

A special tribute

Jim Riddell spoke about the difficult times families and farmers in Southwest Virginia faced in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. He praised the Extension agents for their tireless work in the face of adversity. “It’s been a terrible time for families, farmers, and your communities — but Virginia Cooperative Extension was there,” Riddell said. He emphasized that the community would never forget the efforts of these agents. He concluded with, “I’ve never been prouder to say I was an Extension agent.”

Agent’s heroic effort

The Southwest District agents’ response to the crisis was truly remarkable. They worked non-stop, offering support and resources to families, farmers, and local communities. Their goal was to help people get back on their feet as quickly as possible. They provided food, water, and other supplies to those affected by the storm. They also helped farmers assess damage to crops and livestock and connected them with resources to rebuild.

Agents deeply moved

When the Southwest District agents were called to the stage to receive their award, the audience gave them a standing ovation. Grayson County’s Kevin Spurlin was deeply moved by the recognition. “The emotions came from knowing that the Southwest Virginia Extension agents responded to the crisis not for recognition, but because our communities needed us,” Spurlin said. He explained that they weren’t looking for praise — they simply wanted to help their neighbors, family, and friends during a time of need. “We gave so much of ourselves over the last four months, and it all came out during the awards presentation.”

The VCE agents’ work didn’t stop after the award ceremony. Even after the immediate aftermath of the storm, they continued to provide support to the affected communities. Their efforts have been crucial in helping Southwest Virginia rebuild. The award acknowledges not just their hard work, but their dedication to helping others in times of crisis.