Stephen Devoto

Stephen Devoto is a farmer, developmental biologist, and civic activist who recently transitioned to farming full-time.2 Here are some key details about him:

Background and Career

Stephen Devoto was formerly an academic scientist and faculty member at Wesleyan University.3 In 2023, he left his academic career to become a full-time farmer.1 He now operates Devoto Farm with his wife Joyce.

Farm Details

• Stephen and Joyce bought an abandoned farm in Corinth Corner, Vermont in 2021.1
• They began farming there full-time in 2023.1
• Previously, Stephen maintained a 5-acre hobby farm in Middletown, Connecticut, where he raised turkeys, chickens, and pigs for meat.3

Family

• Stephen is married to Joyce Devoto.1
• They have two children:
  • Audra, who works as a chief data scientist at a California biotech firm
  • Clark, who is the farm manager at Crossmolina Farm1
• Stephen's brother Will and sister Bessie grew up and continue to reside in Corinth, Vermont.1

Community Involvement

Stephen is actively involved in his local community:

• He serves as the President of the Chelsea Farmers Market board in Vermont.1
• Previously, he served for many years in city government in Middletown, Connecticut.1
• He describes himself as a progressive and was formerly the Chair of Middletown Planning and Zoning.4

Stephen Devoto's transition from academia to farming reflects his passion for agriculture and sustainable food production, as well as his commitment to community involvement and local governance.