Auburn College of Agriculture to host annual luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 25
An alumnus of the Auburn University College of Agriculture and his entrepreneurial, cofounder wife will share their story at the 2026 Spring Leadership Luncheon, presented by the college’s Women in Agriculture program.
The annual luncheon will feature keynote speakers Alex and Amanda Wilbanks, co-founders of Southern Baked Pie Company, a Gainesville, Georgia-based business that grew from a cherished family recipe to a thriving national gourmet pie business.
Amanda Wilbanks is the visionary founder and CEO of Southern Baked Pie Company, which they launched in 2012. With a signature all-butter pie crust that has become a hallmark of the brand, Southern Baked Pie Company crafts sweet and savory seasonal pies sourced from local farmers and suppliers. While baked in Georgia, these artisanal pies are shipped nationwide for special occasions, corporate gifting and everyday celebrations.
Alex and Amanda will share the story of growing their company into a nationally respected name in the artisanal food world, known for its commitment to craftsmanship, hospitality and the rich cultural heritage of Southern baking.
The Spring Leadership Luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at Ag Heritage Park’s Alfa Pavilion, located at 620-A South Donahue Drive. Individual tickets are $150, and sponsorship opportunities are available. The luncheon brings together alumni, students, faculty and community members to celebrate leadership, innovation and agricultural entrepreneurship.
“This luncheon is an excellent opportunity for attendees to gain insights into leadership, resilience in entrepreneurship, and the journey of building a nationally recognized brand rooted in agricultural traditions,” said Amy Wright, associate dean for instruction in the College of Agriculture. “I look forward to hearing Alex and Amanda share their story.”
Click here for more information about the Spring Leadership Luncheon and to RSVP.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Ag Heritage Park Alfa Pavilion, 620-A S. Donahue Drive, Auburn
Presented by: Women in Agriculture, College of Agriculture, Auburn University
RSVP: $150. Registration is required.
