By Maggie Edwards

The Alabama Farmers Federation welcomed William Haubner May 20 as its Ag Law Pathway intern.

Haubner, 24, joins the Federation External Affairs Department. The Jacksonville, Florida, native will conduct legal research, analyze legislation and regulations and update Federation legal resources. 

With a grandfather and great-grandfather as past members of the organization, Haubner is ready to carry on the family Federation legacy this summer.

“I plan to restart the family tradition by operating my own farm,” Haubner said. “I know this internship will help create relationships with the agricultural community while I serve members of the Federation. I’m excited to see ag law in practice.”

The Ag Law Pathway memorandum was signed in 2021 by the Federation, Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries, Faulkner University and the National Agricultural Law Center. 

This partnership brings a great caliber of students to the agricultural industry, said Federation Agriculture Counsel John Allen Nichols. Haubner is the third Faulkner Jones School of Law student to participate.

“The pathway is developing leaders and a network of individuals who understand state and federal laws impacting agriculture,” Nichols said. “William will meet farmers face to face. That’s the best way to grasp issues that arise on the farm.”

A rising second-year law student, Haubner brings leadership skills to the table, too. The Auburn University graduate was involved in the Emerge at Auburn leadership program while earning his undergraduate degree in law and justice. He is an Eagle Scout and experienced national leadership training from the Boy Scouts of America.

Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the organization’s internship program provides students with real-world experience.

“It’s encouraging to see young adults seek professional development opportunities in agriculture,” Parnell said. “Our industry needs people who want to work for farmers. The Ag Law Pathway is a steppingstone for a lifetime of success. We’re proud to play a part in that.” 

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Founded in 1921, the Alabama Farmers Federation is Alabama’s largest farm organization with more than 350,000 member families.