Andy Black Delivers Commencement Address at MSU’s Institute of Ag Tech
Jun 09, 2025
Graduation celebrations are all around us and Keystone employee Andy Black was asked to be part of a special one. This spring, Andy was invited to deliver the commencement address at Michigan State University’s Institute of Agricultural Technology—a high honor and a defining moment in his career. Speaking to graduates from across the agricultural spectrum—including majors in crop and soil sciences, specialty crop management, livestock, turf management, and viticulture—Andy stood not only as an accomplished professional, but as a proud MSU alumnus with a message that resonated far beyond the classroom.
Andy, who earned his bachelor’s degree in Science (Biology/Chemistry) from MSU in 2009, has remained closely connected to the university throughout his career. Over the past decade, he has worked with MSU advisors to hire interns, served as a guest speaker in classrooms, and actively supported the MSU Agronomy Club. But being asked to speak at commencement? That’s a big deal, both for him, and for the students who heard his story.
Now serving as Agronomy Sales Lead for Region 1 at Keystone Cooperative, Andy’s path in agriculture has been marked by steady growth and a relentless drive to lead well. Starting in sales with CHS in Hamilton, Michigan, he advanced to sales manager and later to Agronomy Manager of Endeavor Ag & Energy before taking on his current role at Keystone. Today, he leads with intention, developing a high-performing sales team, setting and exceeding growth goals using tools like Power BI and Keystone Connect, and focusing each day on creating new opportunities.
In his commencement remarks, Andy drew on the core values that have guided his career: working with integrity, building strong team culture, waking up every day with a hunger to win, and embracing continual learning. While earning a degree is an important milestone, Andy told graduates that it is your character that will earn you a seat at the table.”
By sharing his personal journey and professional insights, Andy left MSU’s newest alumni with more than a celebration—he left them with a challenge: to lead with purpose, stay curious, and always keep growing.
From the classroom to the field, Andy Black continues to plant seeds of inspiration and motivation for the next generation of agricultural leaders.