Bailey family honored with national philanthropy award at NAADA 2025

The University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is proud to celebrate the Bailey family, recipients of the 2025 Ruby C. McSwain Outstanding Philanthropist Award, presented by the National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association (NAADA). This prestigious national honor recognizes people whose sustained giving and advocacy have significantly advanced agriculture, agricultural higher education, Cooperative Extension, and/or land grant universities.

For over 125 years and over five generations, the Bailey Family has been a steadfast supporter of the University of Minnesota, leaving an indelible mark on the Department of Horticultural Science, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and CFANS. It is almost impossible to list the numerous impacts that they’ve had upon the U of M through their five endowments and numerous annual gifts over that time. Their philanthropy touches everything from event sponsorship, to program support that helps urban youth learn about the science and business of growing plants, to undergraduate scholarships, to an endowed chair that has advanced graduate training and scientific discovery.

In addition to their outstanding philanthropy, the family has been staunch advocates in the horticultural community. Multiple family members have held leadership roles on the Arboretum Foundation's board and committees since its beginning in 1958 as well as board roles with numerous other boards and committees in the community. Whether mentoring students, guiding faculty search committees, or advocating for sustainable agricultural practices, the Bailey Family has been unwavering in their efforts to elevate the field and ensure its continued growth and innovation. Their generosity has not only strengthened the University’s programs but has also cultivated a lasting legacy of learning, outreach, and discovery, making the Bailey family truly deserving of the NAADA Ruby C. McSwain Outstanding Philanthropist Award. Congratulations!