Since its founding by the Champlain Valley Exposition in 2003, the Hall of Fame has celebrated farmers, growers, agricultural professionals, service providers and industry advocates who have helped strengthen Vermont's agricultural community. More than 120 people have received this honor, including a number of Extension representatives.
Hazelrigg and Darby are among this year's new Hall of Fame inductees, following a statewide nomination process over the winter.
"I got a call from the [Vermont] House Ag Committee, they nominated me," Darby said this week.
As an Extension Agronomic and Soils Specialist, she is often called to share her expertise with state lawmakers. And Darby said they were very excited to give her the news.
"I was completely shocked," she added.
Darby is being honored as a 2026 Ag Innovator. That recognition goes to Hall of Famers who have demonstrated a fresh and forward-thinking approach to agriculture, who are making or have made a significant, positive impact on Vermont, and who are notable for their unique perspective and unconventional approach.
"In Extension, our goal is to help people in whatever way people need, meeting their goals or overcoming challenges," Darby said. "To be recognized as someone that has helped farmers, which is my job, it makes your work worthwhile."
She added how happy she was to be recognized alongside her colleague Ann Hazelrigg, who is UVM Extension's longtime Plant Diagnostic Clinic Director -- and who is about to retire after more than four decades on the job.
Fittingly, Hazelrigg is being honored in the Hall of Fame's Lifetime Achievement category. That's for individuals who have played an active role in Vermont agriculture for at least 30 years, and who have made a significant contribution to its advancement, improvement, or development.
"I cannot imagine a better career over the past 40 plus years," Hazelrigg said. "I have been surrounded by amazing and dedicated Extension colleagues, and have had the privilege of working with Vermont’s commercial growers in addition to UVM Master Gardeners and all the gardening enthusiasts in the state."
Plus, she added: "There are always new plant diseases and pests, so I have never been bored!"
Hazelrigg, Darby and the three additional 2026 inductees will be celebrated with family and friends at a luncheon on Sept. 2, 2026 during the Champlain Valley Fair. UVM Extension is a presenting sponsor and longtime parter of the Champlain Valley Exposition.
