Student voices have also shaped the project. During a Student Government Association meeting, student senators reviewed blueprints and concept designs, highlighting how the facility will enhance campus life.
“ I think it’ s nice that Shepherd is investing more in dining and students’ life,” says Shepherd University Student Curry Taylor.“ It’ s going to be more accessible for students to grab a meal by having full dining options on West Campus.”
Construction is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026. Once opened, the facility will be a vibrant center for students to eat, train, collaborate and connect— reinforcing Shepherd’ s commitment to student-centered growth and campus community building.
New Frontiers in Agriculture Just one mile from the main campus, students explore all facets of agriculture at Shepherd University’ s Agricultural Innovation Center at Tabler Farm. The center’ s latest addition, the Agribusiness Center, will offer students new opportunities for experiential learning.
Supported by federal funding secured with the help of U. S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the Agribusiness Center will house instructional kitchens, shared workspaces and product development labs. These resources are designed for both academic instruction and student-led ventures, serving as a launchpad for agricultural entrepreneurs.
The Agribusiness Center will also function as a regional hub for community partnerships, agricultural apprenticeships and workforce development. It will bring students and local producers together to solve real-world challenges in food systems and agribusiness management.
“ Our students are learning not just how to farm but how to lead, build sustainable systems, manage agribusinesses and support food access in our communities,” says Dr. Brooke Comer, associate professor of environmental studies.
Shepherd’ s sustainable agriculture program, housed within the Department of Environmental and Physical Sciences, promotes interdisciplinary learning in partnership with the College of Business and Recreation. Courses like ENVS 461 provide immersive, real-world instruction in crop management, market operations and agribusiness strategy.
Tabler Farm serves as a living laboratory for the Agricultural Innovation Center. The site includes orchards and crop fields for seasonal planting and harvesting, aquaponics systems that integrate fish farming with hydroponic plant cultivation, solar-powered infrastructure supporting energy-efficient operations, high tunnels that allow year-round growing, beekeeping facilities and an apiary supporting pollinator health and honey production.
Beginning with the fall 2025 semester, the Agribusiness Center will expand career opportunities by offering new pathways for food innovation, product development and regional economic growth. Prospective students can apply through the Sustainable Agriculture Application portal, which outlines prerequisites and program expectations. The program welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who are passionate about sustainability, food systems and community engagement.
The Agricultural Innovation Center also supports Shepherd’ s broader mission to serve the Eastern Panhandle. By integrating education with economic development, the center helps address regional challenges like food insecurity, land stewardship and workforce readiness.
A Vision Rooted in Purpose The dining hall / multipurpose building and the Agribusiness Center reflect Shepherd University’ s commitment to smart investment and studentfocused growth. These projects represent more than new facilities; they are a testament to Shepherd’ s core values— learning, engagement and service.
“ Our vision is to build a learning ecosystem that extends beyond the classroom,” says Hendrix.“ These projects reflect that mission and position Shepherd for a strong future.”
As Shepherd University continues to grow, it remains grounded in its values: service, sustainability and student success. Whether through a shared meal, collaborative project or harvest at Tabler Farm, students are empowered to explore their interests, lead with purpose and shape their futures.
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