Nicole Hollabaugh delivers student speech at Institute of Agricultural Technology Commencement

May 05, 2026

Hollabaugh is an Agricultural Operations student through MSU IAT at Montcalm Community College, completing both her IAT Certificate and associate degree

Nicole Hollabaugh delivers student speech at Institute of Agricultural Technology Commencement — Hollabaugh is an Agricultural Operations student through MSU IAT at Montcalm Community College, where she is completing both her IAT Certificate and associate degree

EAST LANSING, Michigan – Michigan State University’s Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) is pleased to recognize Nicole Hollabaugh as a student speaker for the IAT Commencement Ceremony held on March 29, 2026.

Hollabaugh is an Agricultural Operations student through MSU IAT at Montcalm Community College, where she is completing both her IAT Certificate and associate degree before transferring to Michigan State University this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness Management.

A highly engaged student leader, Hollabaugh brings a depth of experience and service to the agricultural community. She is a former Michigan FFA State Officer, an American FFA Degree recipient, a Michigan Farm Bureau Collegiate Discussion Meet winner, and one of a select group of Agriculture Future of America Ambassadors nationwide. Her hands-on experience includes more than 2,250 hours of supervised agricultural experience, ranging from raising market lambs to working on her family’s crop and livestock operation. She also mentors other students exploring careers in agriculture and competes as a member of the Montcalm Community College bowling team.

In her commencement address, Hollabaugh reflected on growth, resilience, and purpose, using agriculture as a metaphor for personal development. “During our time in the IAT program, we’ve been building our roots,” she shared. “No matter where you go or what you do next, stay grounded in your passion for agriculture. Stay rooted in purpose.”

As she prepares to continue her education at Michigan State University, Nicole Hollabaugh exemplifies the leadership, determination, and commitment to agriculture that the Institute of Agricultural Technology strives to foster in its students.

Please join us in congratulating Nicole Hollabaugh and thanking her for representing the voices of the Class of 2026 as an IAT student commencement speaker.