Alumni Spotlight: Myron Frock '78

April 29, 2016

Myron Frock could never conceive of of leaving his farm.

“It’ll be 38 years that I’ve had it!” said the 1978 graduate, who majored in Farm Production and Management at the Institute of Applied Agriculture (IAA). “I’d never leave the farm. And I’ve used my major to help me run it!”

Frocklyn Valley Farm located in Westminster, MD, produces grain, hay, and beef. Frock credits the IAA with giving him the knowledge necessary to operate a smooth-running farm. 

“It’s a great program,” said Frock. “The instructors were great and presented info in a way you could retain it and use it. I loved Ted Streett—he molded me more than any teacher I had in my life. And the group of classmates I had at that time, in the fall of 1976—they were amazing. One of the best times I remember with them was the INAG Club crab feast in 1977!”

Frock has such fond memories of the IAA that he encouraged his son Aaron to attend the IAA as well. The younger Frock graduated in 2014 and has followed in his father’s footsteps.

In addition to farming, Frock helps the Carroll County Government with storm water management; he serves on the Board of the Carroll Soil Conservation District, and is an active member of the Maryland Grain Producers and Maryland Farm Bureau. Frock believes that in order to run a business, gaining knowledge about economics, finance, and management is extremely essential.

“Future farmers need to know about things like partial budgets and putting on paper what things cost,” he said. “Learning how to manage a budget is crucial. I had a very good experience at the IAA because I learned what I needed to in order to make my farm run well.”

Above: Aaron and Myron Frock collaborate at Frocklyn Farm. Both are IAA graduates.

As we celebrate our 50th year, the IAA will shine a weekly spotlight on one of our distinguished alumni. Remember to save the date for our 50th Anniversary Gala on May 14th at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center.