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 2026-2027 Statewide Purdue CARET events.
Regional meetings are held in the Fall and Spring each year. Updates to the current schedules will be provided as new information is available.
Spring 2027 Regional Purdue CARET Meetings
Fall 2027 Regional Purdue CARET Meetings
The Fall 2026 Purdue CARET Regional meeting was a statewide Zoom call on Thursday, October 8th, 7-8:30 p.m. (ET). The video recording from the Fall Zoom meeting is available for viewing.
Upcoming Events
Any fresh produce comes with some level of risk because it is purchased raw. When fresh produce...
Indiana had 17 farm-related fatalities documented in 2025, according to the 2025 Indiana Farm...
Tom Clements walked into Porter County Aging and Community Services looking for a tutor to help...
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Angie Abbott, associate dean and director of Purdue Extension, has...
With fresh, flavorful strawberries in high demand across Indiana so are Purdue Extension...
As more Indiana residents move to cities and suburbs, they have found ways to stay connected to...
Extension Annual Report
Purdue Extension's programming positively impacts Indiana hoosiers and local communities.