Rachel Vann

Rachel Vann’s story begins in Geneseo, Illinois, a small town nestled near John Deere’s headquarters. Growing up, she was immersed in a rural environment where her mother worked for John Deere, and her involvement in 4H activities connected her with the agricultural community from a young age. Her fascination with agriculture sparked early, notably when she experienced the joy of seeing and tasting her first ripe strawberry at the tender age of three. This formative moment ignited a lifelong passion for agriculture, though her initial academic pursuits were more broadly focused on natural resources and environmental sciences.

Rachel pursued her undergraduate degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences with a minor in Crop and Soil Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. It was during her time there, immersed in undergraduate research, that her interest in crop sciences solidified. Her curiosity about how scientific principles applied to agriculture deepened, setting the stage for her future career. She continued her education with a Master’s in Cover Crop Management at North Carolina State University, followed by a Ph.D. in Cover Crop Breeding and Management at the same institution.

Rachel is an Associate Professor and Soybean Extension Specialist at NC State, a role she has held since 2018. Her position encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, including teaching, research, and extension work. As an extension specialist, she focuses on providing valuable insights and support to soybean producers in North Carolina, helping them navigate the complexities of crop management.

In addition to her extension role, Rachel serves as the Platform Director for the North Carolina Plant Sciences Initiative (NC PSI), a position that amplifies her influence in advancing plant science research and outreach. Her responsibilities at NC PSI involve coordinating interdisciplinary projects and fostering collaboration among researchers to address pressing agricultural challenges. Rachel is also the leader for Better Together, another soybean initiative. 

Rachel’s lab, a bustling hub of activity, includes a core team consisting of an extension associate, a research technician, and a mix of undergraduate and graduate students. The team’s dynamic environment is further enriched by the presence of interns and collaboration with the Science for Success team. This team approach enables Rachel to leverage a broad array of expertise and resources in her research and extension efforts.

Rachel’s dedication extends to various professional and community roles. She actively participates in the Council of the Status of Women at NC State, advocating for women’s rights and workplace equity. In her department, Rachel serves on the advisory board for Crop and Soil Sciences and contributes to the Agronomic Program Team for NC State’s row crops. 

Her involvement in the Science for Success program is a testament to her commitment to collaborative research. As the lead PI since its inception in 2019, Rachel has been instrumental in advancing the program’s goals. She values the program for its ability to enhance her effectiveness as an extension specialist and appreciates the opportunity to work with top researchers across the U.S. The S4S program has allowed her to extend her impact beyond North Carolina, addressing agricultural challenges on a broader scale.

Outside of her professional life, Rachel is a vibrant individual with a passion for fitness and cooking. She enjoys working out with friends, including power-walking and attending Barre 3 classes. Cooking is a beloved hobby, and she often visits farmer’s markets to find fresh ingredients. Travel is also a significant part of her life, with trips to Illinois, Colorado, and Florida to visit family.

Rachel values time spent with her family, including her husband, Matthew, the NC tobacco specialist, and their children, Orrin, Caroline, and Millie. Despite her demanding career, she makes time for family activities and cherishes the balance she maintains between work and personal life.

Rachel Vann’s career is a testament to her ambition, leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing agricultural practices. Her role as a soybean extension specialist and platform director, coupled with her involvement in the Science for Success program, highlights her dedication to making a meaningful impact in the field of agriculture. Rachel’s story reflects her passion for improving farming practices, supporting farmers, and contributing to both her professional community and personal life with equal fervor.

Story by Aleigha Kelly and Isabella Dean.