The CAST Annual Meeting brings together leaders in agricultural science, science communication, and innovation for a dynamic three-day event hosted by Bayer CropScience in St. Louis, MO. Under the theme “Science That Feeds Tomorrow,” this gathering asks a defining question: as the world and agriculture undergo profound change, which researchers and research areas are building the foundation for a resilient and productive future?
During this gathering, CAST Student Members, CAST Board of Directors, and CAST Workgroups will engage in keynote presentations, panel discussions, and tours that showcase the latest in agricultural research and advancements. (Please note: all are welcome at every event except the closed Board of Directors planning session on Wednesday.)
This is an opportunity for CAST members to connect, share ideas, and help shape the future of our organization and the agricultural sciences community.
*Registration is open to CAST Student Members, CAST Board of Directors, and CAST Board of Representatives. All registered participants are welcome at every event except the closed Board of Directors session on Wednesday morning.
The CAST Student Innovation Conference is an opportunity for CAST Student members to showcase original research, connect with leaders in agricultural science, and gain valuable experience presenting to an engaged and knowledgeable audience. Held alongside the 2026 CAST Annual Meeting in St. Louis, MO, this event empowers the next generation of agricultural innovators.
While all agricultural topics are welcome, the 2026 conference will spotlight research that speaks to the theme “Science That Feeds Tomorrow” — work that addresses the challenges and opportunities defining the future of food and agriculture. Topics of particular interest include:
The student poster session will take place during the CAST Dinner on Monday, October 26, from 6:00–8:30 PM, when the CAST Student Innovation Awards (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place) will be announced.
Space is limited to 15 poster presentations. Register early to secure your spot.
The CAST Annual Meeting & Student Innovation Conference brings together leaders in agricultural science, technology, and communication for three days of collaboration and inspiration. Your contribution helps us provide meals, awards, transportation, and opportunities for students to shine.
Every dollar makes a difference. Join us in building a stronger future for agricultural science.
Looking to sponsor the event? Visit the sponsorship payment page here.
Minimum gift: $50 | Suggested gift: $100
Meeting Supporter
Help cover meals, supplies, and logistics.
Recognition: donor wall + digital thank-you.
Student Innovation Backer
Provide resources for student activities at the Poster Session and Innovation Conference.
Recognition: featured in CAST’s student spotlight.
Tour Booster
Support transportation for campus and industry innovation tours.
Recognition: name/logo on tour itineraries and slides.
Monday, October 27, 2025
| Time | Session |
| 6:15–8:30 PM. CST | Dinner for CAST Staff, Board of Directors, Board of Representatives, and Student Members
Welcome remarks:
Speaker
Panel Discussion with Mississippi State Experts
Moderated by Holli Seitz, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and director of the Message Laboratory at the MSU Social Science Research Center. |
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
| Time | Session |
| 8:30–10:00 AM CST | Light Breakfast
CAST Joint Business Meeting (Board of Directors + Board of Representatives – Workgroups)
|
| 10:00 AM –12:30 PM CST | Campus Tours (all attendees)
*Bus will depart from Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems (CAVS) |
| 1:00–5:30 PM CST |
|
| 6:00–8:30 PM CST | CAST Dinner, Student Posters, and Scholarship Awards
|
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
| Time | Session |
| 8:30–11:30 AM CST | Light Breakfast
CAST Board of Directors Meeting – 2026 Planning (closed session, Directors only)
|
| 12:00 PM CST | Closing Lunch (CAST Staff and Board Members) |
Be part of three inspiring days of discussion, networking, and hands-on learning as we explore how agricultural science, technology, and innovation are shaping the future of food production. Secure your spot today and connect with leaders, innovators, and students from across the agricultural science community.
*Registration is open to CAST Student Members, CAST Board of Directors, and CAST Board of Representatives. All registered participants are welcome at every event except the closed Board of Directors session on Wednesday morning.
CAST has secured discounted hotel rates in Starkville, MS, for meeting participants. Be sure to reserve your room by Friday, September 12, 2025, to guarantee the group rate. After this date, rooms will be released to the general public at standard rates.
Courtyard Marriott – $165/night
Hampton Inn & Suites – $160/night
Russell Inn & Suites – $130/night
How to Book:
St. Louis is well-connected by air, with multiple options for reaching the city depending on your location:
Several options are available for getting from St. Louis Lambert International Airport to hotels and venues in the city:
A complimentary bus service will transport participants between CAST-designated hotels and all official tours and event venues. Parking details will be provided once venue locations are confirmed.
SPONSORS
HOST
The 2026 CAST Annual Meeting & Student Innovation Conference brings together leaders in agricultural science, research, and policy for three days of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration in St. Louis, MO — hosted by Bayer CropScience.
Under the theme “Science That Feeds Tomorrow,” this event is a unique opportunity to put your organization at the center of a conversation that matters — one focused on the researchers and research shaping the future of food and agriculture.
Sponsorship opportunities include:
Each tier offers meaningful visibility and engagement opportunities throughout the event — from stage moments and named event ownership to program listings, signage, and social media recognition.
For more information or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, contact us at communications@cast-science.org.
