News & Media

2025 CAST Annual Meeting & Student Innovation Conference
Hosted by Mississippi State University, the Annual Meeting will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, and educational tours that highlight the latest in agricultural research and technology. CAST Representatives and Board Members will engage in meaningful discussions that shape the future of CAST and agricultural science.

📅 October 27–29, 2025 | 📍 Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS

CAST invites Board Members and Student Members to join us in Starkville this October for a dynamic three-day event that brings together leaders, innovators, and the next generation of agricultural scientists.

CAST Annual Meeting

Hosted by Mississippi State University, the Annual Meeting will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, and educational tours that highlight the latest in agricultural research and technology. CAST Representatives and Board Members will engage in meaningful discussions that shape the future of CAST and agricultural science.

Highlights for Board Members include:

  • CAST Business Meeting and Board sessions

  • On-campus tours of MSU’s research and innovation centers

  • Off-campus industry tours (cotton gin, catfish processing plant)

  • CAST Dinner with Student Poster Session and Scholarship Awards

Student Innovation Conference

Running alongside the Annual Meeting, this conference empowers CAST Student Members to present their research and connect with leaders across academia, industry, and policy.

Opportunities for Students:

  • Present a research poster (required for all participating students)

  • Compete for the $1,000 CAST Student Innovation Scholarship, awarded to the best poster as voted by CAST Board Members

  • Network with agricultural experts and innovators

  • Explore special tours on ag technology, drones, and autonomous systems

The Student Poster Session & Scholarship Award will take place during the CAST Dinner on Tuesday, October 28, from 6:00–8:30 PM.

Lodging & Travel

CAST has secured discounted hotel rates at Courtyard Marriott ($165/night), Hampton Inn & Suites ($160/night), and Russell Inn & Suites ($130/night). Book by Friday, September 12, 2025, to guarantee the group rate.

Starkville is accessible via several airports, including Golden Triangle Regional Airport (17 miles) with Delta and American service.

Registration

This event is open exclusively to CAST Board Members and CAST Student Members.

REGISTER NOW!