Who We Are
Purdue CARET is a volunteer group of Indiana residents that believes in the power of research and education from the Purdue University College of Agriculture and the Purdue Extension mission to translate research into practical, effective, local programs for people across our state. Most of all, Purdue CARET is a mighty advocate. We promote Purdue Agriculture’s significance and strength to county officials, state legislators, members of Congress, and other decision-makers.
Purdue CARET is the Purdue University branch of the national CARET organization. The purpose of Purdue CARET is to provide a means for Indiana citizens to have input into program development, budgetary matters, and legislation.
Purdue CARET members at the 2025 State Conference were asked to describe what Purdue CARET means to them in one word. The following is an AI-generated summary of the Purdue CARET member responses:
Participants view Purdue CARET primarily as a source of advocacy, community, and education. They are motivated to advocate due to a strong commitment to supporting Purdue Extension's impactful programs that benefit local communities, youth, and future generations. Notably, members emphasize the value of connection, sustainability, and leadership opportunities in strengthening community ties and ensuring ongoing Extension support. Many expressed passion for communicating the positive difference Purdue CARET and Extension make at both local and state levels. Overall, advocacy is seen as a way to preserve meaningful, multigenerational educational resources and promote community growth.
Our Mission
Purdue CARET’s mission is to enhance national support and understanding of land-grant university systems’ food and agricultural research, extension, and teaching programs in order to achieve a better standard of living for all people.
Purdue CARET Calendar of Events
Click here for a list of the 2026 Statewide Purdue CARET events.
Area meetings are held in the Fall and Spring each year. Updates to the current schedules will be provided as new information is available.
Here is the current schedule of the Fall 2025 Purdue CARET Area Meetings.
Here is the current schedule of the Spring 2026 Purdue CARET Area Meetings.
Upcoming Events
Tar spot looks innocuous at first, but the tiny black dots on leaves scattered across a cornfield...
The 2026 Indiana Horticulture and Small Farm Conference will take place at the Hendricks County...
Assistive technologies are critical for the success of farmers with disabilities and other...
Tech Changemakers is at the heart of Purdue Extension’s 4-H Youth Development mission:...
After Indiana’s outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in January 2025, Adams...
Purdue Extension invites farmers market vendors and managers to attend in-person training at the...
Extension Annual Report
Purdue Extension's programming positively impacts Indiana hoosiers and local communities.