Shanta “Shay” Roberts
Director
Shanta “Shay” Roberts is the Director of the Virgin Islands Agriculture Business Center and an adjunct professor at the University of the Virgin Islands. With over 27 years of experience in hospitality and business management, she is eager to apply her expertise to strengthen local agriculture and fisheries. Ms. Roberts is dedicated to providing the tools, training, and support needed to help Virgin Islands producers build strong, sustainable, and successful businesses.
Dara M. Cooper
Agribusiness Counselor
Dara M. Cooper serves as the Agribusiness Counselor for the Virgin Islands Agriculture Business Center, providing consulting, marketing support, and training to farmers, fishers, food entrepreneurs, and community organizations across the Virgin Islands of the United States. With more than 25 years of business experience, through her company, Conch Shell Media LLC, she brings a foundation and expertise in strategic communication, teaching, technology, creative problem-solving and research. 20 years as an Agriculture Communications Specialist at the University of the Virgin Islands and with the USDA further strengthened her knowledge in capacity building within the agricultural sector.
dcooper@uvi.edu | (340) 693-1081
Mission
The Virgin Islands Agriculture Business Center (VI AgBC) advances the development and sustainability of the US Virgin Islands’ agricultural and fisheries sectors through comprehensive business support, education, and technical assistance. Our mission is to enhance the capacity of local producers to operate competitive, resilient, and environmentally responsible enterprises that contribute to territorial food security, economic diversification, and community well-being.
Vision
A dynamic and self-sustaining Virgin Islands agriculture and fisheries economy that strengthens local food systems, promotes environmental stewardship, and supports the long-term prosperity and resilience of the Territory and its people.