Krystle Rucker's work in entrepreneurship, natural hair care, agriculture, inclusive education, and community development has been recognized by publications, organizations, business-development programs, and conferences throughout Arkansas.
Media Features & Interviews
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
March 17, 2024
Saline County Hosting Successful Black Skin and Hair Care Businesses
Krystle Rucker and KRB Hair Studio were featured among successful Black-owned skin and hair care businesses in Saline County. The article highlighted Krystle's work as a natural hair professional, educator, and business owner.
From Backyard Garden to Community Resource: Rucker Farm Grows Food, Skills, Connections
This in-depth feature tells the story of Krystle's journey from growing food for her family to developing Rucker Farm Co. into a community-centered farm offering produce, eggs, gardening education, and inclusive experiences for neurodiverse children and families.
Curricula Concepts featured Krystle as an educator using gardening and agriculture to help children understand food systems while building curiosity, confidence, healthy habits, and problem-solving skills. The spotlight also highlighted her commitment to creating inclusive learning experiences for children with different abilities and learning styles.
Krystle was featured in URBANE Magazine alongside members of the Women's Foundation of Arkansas' sixth Women's Economic Mobility Hub cohort, recognizing women entrepreneurs building businesses and creating economic impact throughout Arkansas.
The Women's Foundation of Arkansas featured Krystle and Rucker Farm Co. in a dedicated business spotlight highlighting her work as a farmer, entrepreneur, educator, and community advocate.
Krystle appeared as a featured guest on KFFH 93.7 FM to discuss Rucker Farm Co., agriculture, community education, and the work she is doing to help families grow food and become more self-sufficient.
2026 American Community Gardening Association National Conference
June 4–7, 2026
Little Rock, Arkansas — June 4–7, 2026
Krystle presented two educational sessions during the national conference. “Growing Food for Neurodiverse Families: Sensory-Friendly Gardening Practices” taught participants how to design garden spaces that reduce overstimulation, incorporate quiet zones and visual supports, adapt activities for different communication styles, and establish predictable routines. “Hands in the Soil: Mind at Ease” used planting, sensory exploration, and quiet reflection to help young people experience the calming, emotional, and educational benefits of working with soil and plants.
Krystle presented two workshops during the Southwest Arkansas Small Farms Conference, sharing practical knowledge and lived experience with farmers, landowners, agricultural partners, and community leaders.
Krystle shared the story of building Rucker Farm Co. from a backyard growing operation into an expanding farm business centered on education, food access, family participation, and community impact.
Youth Gardening Instructor — 2026 ACGA National Conference Youth Track
Krystle provided hands-on gardening instruction to young people as part of the American Community Gardening Association's youth programming. Her instruction connected gardening with emotional wellness, focus, sensory exploration, healthy eating, and confidence.
2025 Women's Economic Mobility Hub Cohort Member and Grant Recipient
Krystle and Rucker Farm Co. were selected for the sixth Women's Economic Mobility Hub cohort. The program provides women entrepreneurs with business education, mentorship, professional resources, networking, and unrestricted grant funding to support business growth.
2024 Minority Business Empowerment Program Cohort Member
Krystle and KRB Hair Studio were selected as one of 30 businesses for Southern Bancorp Community Partners' 12-week Minority Business Empowerment Program. The program provided training in financial management, operations, marketing, leadership, technology, business growth, and funding readiness.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff — Small Farm Program
2024
Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program Graduate
Krystle participated in UAPB's Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program, receiving education and support in farm business planning, crop production, conservation, agricultural resources, marketing, and long-term farm development.
Krystle and KRB Hair Studio were selected as finalists for the Here to Help Foundation's Motivated by Mission Micro Grant. The recognition highlighted KRB Hair Studio's mission to educate, empower, and provide healthy hair care services to families of color.