For Appalachian State University graduate Caden Cable, earning a degree in Sustainable Development with a concentration in Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture wasn't just an academic milestone — it was fuel for a growing dream already rooted in the red clay of Rowan County.
Cable, who hails from Rockwell, N.C., crossed the commencement stage just over a week ago while simultaneously managing the rapid expansion of Cable Family Farm, the business he founded with his family in 2022. What began as a small operation at the end of high school has evolved into a full-scale, sustainably minded farm serving his local community.
Today, the farm produces a diverse mix of seasonal vegetables, herbs, cut flowers, and pasture‑raised meats, along with specialty crops that reflect Cable's commitment to soil health and regenerative practices. The variety is intentional — a way to build resilience, nourish the land, and meet the needs of customers who want fresh, locally grown food.
Balancing college and farming meant living a life on the road — literally.
Photo from Cable Farm Instagram account
"During the semester, I would drive back and forth from Boone to Rockwell every week," Cable shared. "I worked on the farm for a few days and then would come back. My college experience has been all about trying to balance work and school amongst other things."
That dedication has paid off. Cable Family Farm has gained regional attention, including a recent feature in The Regenaissance highlighting the next generation of farmers, and a competitive grant awarded to his family to help expand their agricultural operations. The farm's social media presence has also grown, offering a window into the daily work of sustainable farming and the values that guide it.
Cable chose App State's Sustainable Development program because he wanted to farm differently — with intention, ecological awareness, and long-term community benefit.
"I'm really passionate about farming sustainably, and that's why I chose the major I did," he said. "All of the professors in the SD department have been really great. They've pushed me to think more critically and have always been very supportive and caring."
Faculty in the department emphasize systems thinking, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning — all of which Cable applied directly to his farm. His coursework in agroecology, soil science, and sustainable food systems helped him refine his growing practices and expand his understanding of what it means to farm responsibly.
With his degree in hand, Cable is eager to devote more time to the work that has shaped his college years.
"After I graduate, I will take the things I've learned and the experiences I've had at App State to help me continue to grow my farm business and provide my community with the highest quality, locally produced food," he said. "I am really looking forward to dedicating much more of my time to this thing I am so passionate about."
As he steps into his next chapter, Cable represents the heart of App State's mission: empowering students to create meaningful change in their communities. His journey — from long drives between Boone and Rockwell to building a sustainable farm from the ground up — reflects a commitment to hard work, resilience, and a deep belief in the power of local agriculture.
And now, as a newly minted Mountaineer graduate, he's ready to keep growing.
About the Goodnight Family Department of Sustainable Development
One of seven departments housed in the College of Fine and Applied Arts, the Goodnight Family Department of Sustainable Development at Appalachian State University prepares students to thoughtfully analyze human development while focusing on the applied practice of pursuing transformative, community-driven development with concentrations in agroecology and sustainable agriculture; community, regional and global development; and environmental studies; a Bachelor of Arts in sustainable development with a concentration in environmental studies; and a minor in sustainable development.
About the College of Fine and Applied Arts
Appalachian State University's College of Fine and Applied Arts is a dynamic and innovative group of seven academic departments, bringing together a variety of perspectives, experiences, and real-world education to provide unique opportunities for student success. The college has more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate majors. Its departments are Applied Design, Art, Communication, Military Science and Leadership, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment, and Theatre and Dance.
About Appalachian State University
As the premier public undergraduate institution in the Southeast, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives as global citizens who understand and engage their responsibilities in creating a sustainable future for all. The Appalachian Experience promotes a spirit of inclusion that brings people together in inspiring ways to acquire and create knowledge, to grow holistically, to act with passion and determination, and to embrace diversity and difference. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System. Appalachian enrolls nearly 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio, and offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate majors.
Caden Cable thumbnail image
Caden Cable thumbnail image