NC Sweetpotato Commission honors Craig Yencho
NC Sweetpotato Commission honors Craig Yencho
The NC Sweetpotato Commission recently held its annual meeting in Goldsboro, NC, and honored Craig Yencho with its 2026 Distinguished Service Award. The commission also elected a new slate of officers.
Through his extensive work in agricultural research, Yencho has contributed invaluable knowledge to sweetpotato growers across the state. Whether it’s through developing new cultivation techniques, improving pest management practices or innovating new varieties, the efforts have significantly boosted both the quality and quantity of sweetpotatoes produced in North Carolina.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the hand-in-hand work with growers. Recognizing that success in agriculture depends not just on research but on practical, on-the-ground collaboration, Yencho has bridged the gap between the laboratory and the field. Through his research North Carolina farmers have gained access to cutting-edge resources that directly improve crop yields, enhance sustainability and ensure that our state remains the sweetpotato capital of the world. And through this collaboration, there have been positive ripple effects of his work—not only for growers, but also for the community, the economy and the consumers who enjoy the fruits of his labor.
Other Items to Note from the Meeting:
1.Craig West of West Family Farms, who served as the 2024 vice president was re-elected to another term, and this year as president.
2. Brent Leggett of Leggett Farming Partnership, elected to the seat of vice president.
3. Thomas Joyner of Nash Produce was selected to serve another term as secretary/treasurer. The remaining NCSC board of directors is:
- Richard Anderson, Anderson Farms
- Jose’ Pepe Calderon, Barnes Farming/FarmPak
- Sarah Carraway, Lancaster Farms
- Rob Glover, Rob Glover Farms
- Kim LeQuire, Kornegay Family Farms & Produce
- Annette Starling, Millstream Farms
- Scott Sullivan, Sullivan Farms
- Trey Wilson – Ham Farms
- Lyn Vick, Vick Family Farms
“Our board is looking forward to a successful sweet year,” said Michelle Grainger, executive director of the NCSC. “Looking ahead, the industry is optimistic that our efforts will help push consumption and position our state as a dependable and reliable source – known for its quality and consistency."