Mar 26, 2024

Outstanding MSU ag alumni recognized

Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) has recognized numerous faculty for their contributions to agriculture.

Sarah Quackenbush, sales manager of North Bay Produce, received the Outstanding Up and Coming Alumni Award at the March 1 ANR Awards Program.

The awards program recognized 15 leaders in agriculture and natural resources for their distinguished accomplishments and service.

The CANR Outstanding Up and Coming Alumni Award honors individuals who have distinguished themselves by obtaining a high level of professional accomplishment and who possess high standards of integrity and character to positively reflect and enhance the prestige of CANR within 15 years of graduation.

From of Interlochen, Michigan, Quackenbush earned a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness management with honors in 2012, with a specialization in international agriculture.

“In the time since her graduation, Sarah has asserted herself as a leader in her industry at local, national and international levels,” according to a news release. “Through her growth and development, she maintains a service-oriented, caring and kind approach, lending her hand and knowledge to those starting in the profession. Quackenbush is an avid team player and collaborator with deep ties to Michigan, MSU and its students, and the professionals within her industry. Her passion for helping others and furthering her industry makes her a standout in her field, and a great representation of CANR.”

Shortly after graduation, Quackenbush worked as a service team leader before advancing to produce manager at Wegmans Food Markets.

In 2014, Quackenbush returned to Michigan to join North Bay Produce (NBP), a grower-owned berry and apple marketer. There, she began as an account manager and export sales specialist, collaborating with eight retailer accounts to grow and diversify their produce offerings. Quackenbush moved into a data and strategic insights management, managing data analysis and strategic assessments. In 2023, she transitioned into sales manager, where she runs a 12-person sales team.

A grower-owned cooperative, North Bay Produce ships a variety of conventional and organic fruits and vegetables, including apples, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, asparagus, butternut squash, green beans and snow peas.

“The ANR Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the impact, achievements and loyal service of members of our college community,” CANR Dean Kelly Millenbah said in the release. “While each of our 2024 award recipients has forged their own distinct path, they all have used their careers to initiate positive change, accelerate new knowledge and advance the missions of Michigan State University and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.”

A complete list of the 2024 award winners and detailed biographies about each recipient can be found here.