Sigma Alpha is a nationally recognized professional agricultural sorority that strives for development and awareness in the field of agriculture. The Alpha Theta chapter from North Carolina State University, established in 1998, holds numerous professional, service, fundraising, and philanthropy events each year. One philanthropy event in particular supports the North Carolina Farm Bureau Foundation’s Ag in the classroom program. This wonderful program is true to its name, bringing agriculture to classrooms throughout the state. Materials are distributed to K-12th grade teachers that incorporate agriculture into the curriculum, thus helping students learn about agriculture.
In April of 2008, we will host our 6th annual Swing-A-Thon. This annually-held event is our biggest event of the year for our sorority. During the day-long event, NC State students pay $10 and swing in a porch swing located in NCSU’s main plaza, affectionately known as “the brickyard.” Each student receives a T-shirt with the event’s theme and sponsor names. The event in the past has had numerous participants and sponsors, and we are only looking to get bigger and better with each year.
Many children throughout our state and country do not understand where their food and clothing comes from or appreciate the value of agriculture. By incorporating agricultural themes into their curriculum at a young age, children are more likely to develop a life-long understanding of the enormous impact agriculture has on our everyday lives. Some students may even be led to choose one of the many diverse careers available in agriculture.
We are seeking both sponsors for the event, and also teacher applicants who submit the proper paperwork in order to receive one of our grants. If your company would like to make a $100 tax-deductible donation, please contact Kristan Midgett, 2008 Swing-A-Thon chair, at kamidget@ncsu.edu. Also, if you are a K-8 teacher interested in applying for a grant, you may also email Kristan Midgett at that same email address.
