Every few years, the New Jersey Agricultural Society, in partnership with Rutgers University, welcomes a new cohort of emerging leaders into the New Jersey Agricultural Leadership Development Program (NJALDP). Class XIII represents a diverse, talented group of farmers, agribusiness professionals, educators, market managers, and industry advocates—each bringing their own story, expertise, and passion for strengthening New Jersey agriculture.
This group will spend the next two years learning together, visiting farms and ag institutions across the state, and developing the leadership skills they’ll carry back to their own communities and businesses. From seasoned professionals to the next generation just stepping into the field, Class XIII brings a wide range of perspectives—but a shared commitment to New Jersey agriculture.
Below, meet the members of Class XIII:
This group will spend the next two years learning together, visiting farms and ag institutions across the state, and developing the leadership skills they’ll carry back to their own communities and businesses. From seasoned professionals to the next generation just stepping into the field, Class XIII brings a wide range of perspectives—but a shared commitment to New Jersey agriculture.
Below, meet the members of Class XIII:
Kyle Applegate - Battleview Orchards
Kyle Applegate developed a strong passion for farming at a young age while following in his father’s footsteps at Battleview Orchards. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness with a minor in Horticulture from West Virginia University, he returned to the business full-time in 2015. Kyle currently oversees all farm operations and assists with administrative tasks in the business.
Battleview Orchards operates a year-round farm market and bakery, offers a pick-your-own orchard, and raises crops for its retail. Battleview Orchards has deep farming roots in the Freehold area, as Kyle is currently the 5th generation Applegate to farm on Wemrock Road. Kyle is grateful for the team that contributes to Battleview’s success, including his parents, Scott and Lisa, for their guidance during the leadership and ownership transition, and his wife, Maggie, who manages the retail operation.
Kyle and Maggie have a young son, a daughter on the way, and a crazy Labrador named Scooby. Outside of the farm, Kyle enjoys spending time with family and friends and playing golf. He appreciates being part of NJALDP Class XIII and looks forward to connecting with classmates and others in the program. He aims to strengthen his leadership skills and apply what he learns to benefit Battleview Orchards and the agricultural community in the great garden state.
Battleview Orchards operates a year-round farm market and bakery, offers a pick-your-own orchard, and raises crops for its retail. Battleview Orchards has deep farming roots in the Freehold area, as Kyle is currently the 5th generation Applegate to farm on Wemrock Road. Kyle is grateful for the team that contributes to Battleview’s success, including his parents, Scott and Lisa, for their guidance during the leadership and ownership transition, and his wife, Maggie, who manages the retail operation.
Kyle and Maggie have a young son, a daughter on the way, and a crazy Labrador named Scooby. Outside of the farm, Kyle enjoys spending time with family and friends and playing golf. He appreciates being part of NJALDP Class XIII and looks forward to connecting with classmates and others in the program. He aims to strengthen his leadership skills and apply what he learns to benefit Battleview Orchards and the agricultural community in the great garden state.
 | Dawn K. Bird -Commercial Real Estate Appraiser, Farm Credit EastDawn Bird grew up in Hunterdon County, surrounded by farms and open fields. After graduating from Hunterdon Central Regional High School, she pursued a degree in Finance at The College of New Jersey. With more than ten years of experience at Farm Credit East, Dawn is a seasoned commercial real estate appraiser, specializing in the valuation of agricultural properties. She also runs a robust fee appraisal program which assists people with estate planning, divorce settlement, and portfolio management. She hopes to expand her network in New Jersey agriculture and gain practical skills and insights that will help her grow as a leader. Outside of work she enjoys swimming, volunteering with multiple organizations, and collecting vintage Christmas decorations, much to the chagrin of her husband and son, who are often tasked with hauling the bins up from the basement. |
 | Nicole M. Broadwater — NJ Dept of Agriculture 'Farm to School'Nicole Broadwater is the NJ Department of Agriculture Farm to School Coordinator. In her role, she provides resources, training, and technical assistance for the implementation of the Farm to School Program. The Farm to School program seeks to increase the capacity of participating institutions to procure and use local food in program meals and provide agricultural education opportunities to participating children. Nicole loves talking about Farm to School, just ask her kids who have said on several occasions, “we know, we know, you love your job, farms, schools, farms, bla, bla, bla.” She is extremely excited to be around new folks who are just as passionate about local food as she is. In the NJ Agricultural Leadership Class, she hopes to establish an agricultural network throughout the state and enhance her understanding of NJ agricultural infrastructure. With all her incessant talking about Farm to School, Nicole’s passion has rubbed off on her kids. Her son can be found every other weekend selling Jersey Fresh value-added products at the farmer’s market. Not wanting to be left out, her daughter recently spent her first day on the job at the same market. When asked how her day was, her response was “I loved it, I always knew I would work at a farm market. I really liked the customers; the people really care about supporting the local farms.” |
 | Rebecca E. Carmeli-Peslak — Informa Markets, Farm ProgressRebecca Carmeli-Peslak earned her Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communication from Purdue University and is currently pursuing her MBA at Purdue as well. She works as a Marketing Specialist for Farm Progress, part of Informa Markets, where she works on marketing efforts for over 17 agricultural publications, multiple social media channels, and several major agricultural events. With 13 years of 4-H experience and three years in FFA, Rebecca’s passion for agriculture has been lifelong. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her animals, cooking, baking, traveling and relaxing at the beach. She also enjoys traveling and learning about cooking and agriculture from other cultures. Through the NJ Agricultural Leadership Development Program, Rebecca hopes to expand her agricultural knowledge, build meaningful connections and contribute to strengthening New Jersey agriculture—particularly by supporting youth of all abilities. She is also eager to continue growing and diversifying her skills as a leader in the agricultural community. |
Rachel A. DeFlumeri —NJDA, Div Agricultural and Natural Resource
 | Rachel DeFlumeri is a native of New Jersey and currently serves as an Agricultural Resource Specialist with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA), within the Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. In this capacity, she provides technical assistance to landowners and agricultural producers across the state, with a primary focus on regulatory compliance, state and local land-use policy, and resource conservation. Rachel works closely with farmers and industry stakeholders to address complex challenges related to soil and water conservation, sustainable land management, and environmental stewardship. Rachel earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Science, with a minor in Applied Horticulture, from The Pennsylvania State University. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors of agriculture. She began her career in agronomy as a Barley Breeding Scientist with Molson Coors (formerly MillerCoors) in Burley, Idaho. Upon returning to the East Coast, she accepted a position with Rutgers Cooperative Extension as the Master Gardener Program Coordinator, where she cultivated a strong interest in perennial plants and arboriculture. This interest led her to pursue work as an arborist sales representative and later established a small consulting business focused on tree, shrub, and plant health care. Rachel is honored to participate in Class 13 of the New Jersey Agricultural Leadership Development Program. She views the program as a valuable opportunity to further develop her leadership capabilities and expand her expertise in stakeholder engagement, public communication, and agricultural policy. She is particularly interested in enhancing collaboration between local partners and state agencies to strengthen programmatic initiatives and support the continued advancement of New Jersey’s agricultural industry. When not in the office, Rachel spends most of her time outdoors, gardening, hiking, camping, and biking with her dog, Waylon, during the warmer months. In the winter she enjoys and skiing, both downhill and cross-country. |
Faith C. Cassaday-Leonetti - Cassaday Farms
Faith is a fourth-generation farmer working on her family’s vegetable and fruit farm, Cassaday Farms LLC located in Monroeville, NJ. She handles the farm’s office management and paperwork, ensuring operations run smoothly. In addition to her administrative role, she represents the farm each week at a local farmers market, connecting directly with customers and the community.
Faith hopes to meet and make relationships with people in many types of agricultural jobs around the state and build leadership skills.
Faith was a 4H member for 8 years in various livestock clubs and continues to raise livestock.
Faith hopes to meet and make relationships with people in many types of agricultural jobs around the state and build leadership skills.
Faith was a 4H member for 8 years in various livestock clubs and continues to raise livestock.
Hemant L. Gohil — Rutgers University Cooperative Extension
Hemant Gohil is an Extension Agent with Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Gloucester County. He helps the fruit and wine grape industry through applied research and science-based education. Before moving to New Jersey in 2015, he spent about 5 years conducting research trials on Wine Grape Irrigation and Canopy Management in Washington State and California. He went to the University of Florida (Ph.D.) and Texas A&M University (M.S.) for graduate studies. He hopes to learn the art of leadership, communications, and networking while making long-term relationships with the students of NJALDP Class XIII. He likes nature walks, playing volleyball, and listening to podcasts on a wide range of topics!
Bradley R. Hansen — Burlington County Farmland Preservation Program / Well’s Blueberry Farm
Brad Hansen currently serves as the Assistant Administrator to the Burlington County Farmland Preservation Program and County Agriculture Development Board. Together with his wife, Brad also owns and operates Wells’ Blueberry Farm – a 6th generation family-owned blueberry farm located in Southampton, NJ.
Brad grew up in Wisconsin surrounded by agriculture. While earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he began to develop a passion for agriculture that still drives him to this day. Brad previously worked in agricultural research settings across multiple crops (soybeans, corn, potatoes, green beans, blueberries, cranberries), and within the ag technology sector (smart irrigation management systems). He worked for one of the largest agricultural companies in the world, as well as for a small start-up company and on a small family farm. The diverse set of skills and experience Brad has developed/gained through past and current roles has shaped his unique perspective of the global ag industry. Brad hopes to strengthen his leadership skills and abilities as a Class XIII participant as he works to support the NJ agricultural community and help move the industry forward.
When not on a farm or talking about farms, Brad can be found alongside his wife trying to keep up with their energetic 3 year old daughter- who is probably trying to convince them to take her back to their farm!
Brad grew up in Wisconsin surrounded by agriculture. While earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he began to develop a passion for agriculture that still drives him to this day. Brad previously worked in agricultural research settings across multiple crops (soybeans, corn, potatoes, green beans, blueberries, cranberries), and within the ag technology sector (smart irrigation management systems). He worked for one of the largest agricultural companies in the world, as well as for a small start-up company and on a small family farm. The diverse set of skills and experience Brad has developed/gained through past and current roles has shaped his unique perspective of the global ag industry. Brad hopes to strengthen his leadership skills and abilities as a Class XIII participant as he works to support the NJ agricultural community and help move the industry forward.
When not on a farm or talking about farms, Brad can be found alongside his wife trying to keep up with their energetic 3 year old daughter- who is probably trying to convince them to take her back to their farm!
Stacey M. Kennedy - NJ Ag Society, West Windsor Farmers Market
 | Stacey Kennedy is the Director of the New Jersey Agricultural Society and the Assistant Manager of the West Windsor Farmers Market. With more than 16 years of experience working on farms and alongside farmers, her love for agriculture, open space, nature, and food production has led her to the incredible opportunity of joining NJALDP Class XIII. Stacey hopes to grow as an active listener, become a stronger leader for the Society, and deepen her understanding of the organizations and support systems that strengthen New Jersey’s agricultural community. After studying graphic design and advertising design in college, she went on to work for small family farms, where she learned animal husbandry, cheesemaking, and the art of connecting the public with the farm—helping visitors fall in love with the world she has long been grateful to be part of. |
James P. Klett — Fairgrown Farm LLC
James Klett is Co-Founder and Managing Director of Fairgrown Farm in Hopewell, New Jersey, where he leads a fast-growing CSA and food-hub business connecting local produce to families and institutional partners across the state. He comes to this class eager to sharpen his leadership and strategy skills while learning from peers who are building innovative food and agriculture enterprises. Fun fact: James started farming at 17 years old on a whim, with no prior experience or family connection to agriculture.
Rebecca L. Kluempen — Medford Nursery
Rebecca Kluempen is the IPM manager at Medford Nursery. She attended Mercer County Community College where she graduated with Associates degrees in Ornamental Horticulture and Plant Science. She then transferred to Delaware Valley University where she graduated with a B.S. in Horticulture. During college she worked at various operations, gaining experience in Plant Breeding/Trials, Viticulture, and Nursery/Greenhouse production. After graduation she transitioned into her current role as IPM Manager. Recently she took on the opportunity to commit to developing into a more senior management role, and has begun a Management Development Program at the Nursery. Additionally, Rebecca is an adjunct professor at the Mercer County Community College's Ornamental Horticulture/Plant Science program. She also sits on the Burlington County Board of Agriculture.
During her time in NJALDP she is excited to learn more about the larger world of agriculture in NJ, while being an advocate for ornamental horticulture and agriculture education. In her free time, Rebecca enjoys mountain biking and gardening with her dog Archie.
During her time in NJALDP she is excited to learn more about the larger world of agriculture in NJ, while being an advocate for ornamental horticulture and agriculture education. In her free time, Rebecca enjoys mountain biking and gardening with her dog Archie.
 | Martina E. Lavender- IPM Vegetable ScoutMartina Lavender recently graduated with the class of 2025 from Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences with a double major in Production Animal Science and Food & Agricultural Systems, a double minor in Plant Biology and Environmental Business Economics, and designation from the Clearing Corporation Charitable Founders Agribusiness Scholars program. She loves learning about agriculture and the variety the industry brings with all of its different sectors and how they all interconnect. She has a particular interest in agritourism and hopes to one day have her own farm venue. Currently she works as a seasonal IPM Vegetable Scout in North Jersey and part-time on a flower farm creating bouquets for markets. In her free time, Martina enjoys playing trombone or banjo and tending to her garden and house plants. |
 | Matthew M. Leonetti -Cassaday Farms LLCMatthew spent seven years as a woodworker in a cabinet shop before transitioning to a career in agriculture. With a long-standing passion for farming, he is now a full-time farmer at Cassaday Farms LLC in Monroeville, New Jersey, where he is dedicated to expanding his skills and improving sustainability. His hands-on experience and commitment to hard work drive his goal of building a better future in agriculture. Matthew hopes to build lifelong friendships with his classmates, deepen his understanding of the political side of agriculture, and strengthen his leadership skills. He also enjoys spending time in nature and being around animals. |
Georgia S. Lucas — Dusty Lane Farms LLC
Georgia Lucas grew up in Salem County, NJ, where her love for agriculture began through 4-H and FFA. During her senior year of high school, she interned at Dusty Lane Farms through the Woodstown FFA program, sparking a passion that would shape her career. After studying Agriculture at Dordt University and gaining hands-on experience in various agriculture industries through internships across the country; she spent several years in Texas working in business management and sales before returning home to New Jersey. Coming full circle, she now serves as the Business & Plant Division Manager at Dusty Lane Farms. She also partners with Walker Brothers Seeds & Plants, managing a tissue culture lab and learning the asparagus business. Outside of work, Georgia supports the Woodstown FFA Alumni as Secretary and enjoys time with her family. Her love for agriculture and animals extends to owning a Standardbred racehorse, Coastal Cowgirl, who she is excited to see racing on the track in the near future; and her two cattle dogs Cowboy & Rowdy. Guided by her faith in Jesus Christ, she sees agriculture as both a career and a calling—an opportunity to serve others and honor the Creator through the land. She is excited to be part of Class XIII and looks forward to building new connections while continuing to advocate for the industry she loves.
Michael Madden — Madden Family Farms
Michael Madden is a young second generation farmer who grew up in the nursery industry outside Princeton NJ. He is currently developing his skills to be more successful not only in his family’s business but also to be an advocate and leader in the farming community. What he hopes to achieve in the program is better understanding the New Jersey farm community and to apply those skills when working with fellow farmers. One fun fact about Michael is that he loves measuring and documenting rain fall.
 | Katherine (Ka) M. Mazzella -NJ Farmland Preservation ProgramKatie Mazzella works for the New Jersey Farmland Preservation program at the State Agriculture Development Committee doing easement acquisition. Growing up in Ocean County, she only ever wanted to be in New York City and never expected to end up being so engrained in one of the most rural counties in New Jersey. After obtaining a Master of Urban Planning degree from Hunter College, she came upon a NJ Civil Service posting that looked interested and has happily been working with farmers on preserving their land for 9 years. She joined this program to figure out what else she can do to help farmers and the industry via her role in government and to meet new people with similar goals to work together to build a thriving culture of growth and stability. Wherever she is, whether at the top of a mountain or sitting on the beach, you’ll never catch Katie without a crochet project and backup yarn in her bag. |
 | David C. Zaback - SADC Farmland Preservation ProgramDavid Zaback grew up in Iowa City, Iowa before moving to New Jersey to pursue a career in farming in 2004. He worked on organic vegetable farms for 16 years, including the last ten leasing land to run his own farm in Lawrence Township (Mercer County). He currently works as a Regional Coordinator for the State Agriculture Development Committee Farmland Preservation Program, helping landowners permanently protect their land and family legacy. As a member of Class 13 of the NJALDP, David looks forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the interconnected agricultural community throughout New Jersey and developing lifelong relationships with his fellow classmates. |