Raleigh, NC - August 1, 2024 - The North Carolina Poultry Federation is thrilled to announce the induction of two distinguished individuals into the Poultry Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the NC State Park Alumni Center in Raleigh, North Carolina on July 24th, 2024. This year's honorees are Dr. Carmen "Carm" Parkhurst, recognized posthumously, and Samuel Starnes.

Dr. Carmen Parkhurst, who dedicated his career to advancing poultry science, joined the faculty at NC State University in 1971. Over his nearly four-decade tenure, Dr. Parkhurst significantly shaped the Undergraduate programs, educating more than 5,000 students. His leadership extended to his role as Director of the NC State Fair Poultry Show for over 20 years and his instrumental contributions to the Annual 4-H Turkey Growing Contest.

After retiring in 2008, Dr. Parkhurst continued to make global impacts as an Agricultural Advisor in Iraq with the 101st Airborne, supporting the USA Reconstruction Team. He later returned to NC State, where he played a key role in developing innovative waste processing technologies for commercial animal production. His distinguished career earned him several prestigious awards, including the National Academy of College Teachers Awards, the NC State University Academy of Outstanding Teachers Award, and the NC Governor's Teaching Award.

Samuel Starnes, the second inductee, has made remarkable contributions to the poultry industry through his leadership at Circle S Ranch, a family business he co-founded with his father in 1972. Under Sam's guidance, Circle S Ranch has grown into one of the nation's largest turkey producers, with over 320 million pounds of live turkeys produced annually from company-owned farms and family farm contract growers. The ranch also operates a shavings production facility and cultivates over 8,000 acres of corn, wheat, and soybeans.

Sam Starnes, a resident of Union County, NC, has been a cornerstone of his community, where he lives with his wife of over 50 years, Freida. Together, they have two sons, Chad and Travis, both actively involved in the family business, and five grandchildren.

The induction ceremony celebrated the significant achievements and lasting legacies of these two exceptional individuals who have profoundly impacted the North Carolina poultry industry and beyond.

For more information about the North Carolina Poultry Federation and the Poultry Hall of Fame, please contact:

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Since 1968 the North Carolina Poultry Federation has been the voice of the state's poultry industry. Serving producers and processors of chicken, turkey, and egg products, the Federation provides a united industry voice to government, media, and the general public. Our mission: To create a favorable climate for business success for everyone involved in North Carolina's poultry industry.

Story credit: Valerie Sherman
North Carolina Poultry Federation
August 1, 2024