Success Story: How a Sustainable Development Scholar Earned Both EB-1A and NIW Approvals Without an RFE

Case Summary:  

When this talented researcher first came to NAILG, he had already built an academic journey centered on agritourism and rural economic development. With a Ph.D. in Horticulture-Food and Resource Economics and a strong dedication to supporting rural communities, he was ready for the next chapter of his immigration path. Earlier in the year, NAILG guided him through a successful NIW petition, which was approved after 5 months and 8 days. Encouraged by this success, he returned to us to pursue an EB1A, and we were eager to support him again.

From the start, it was clear how deeply impactful his work has been. His research explores how agritourism can create new income streams for farmers, strengthen local economies, and empower underserved rural regions. His findings have shaped how other researchers approach rural development, and his innovative methods continue to influence new strategies across the field.

His scholarly record further demonstrated his leadership. He has authored 15 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 9 as first author, as well as 1 peer-reviewed conference article and 16 conference abstracts, 14 of which he led. This combination of productivity and initiative showed that he is not only contributing to the field but is actively driving it forward.

Another major strength was his extensive service as a peer reviewer. Completing at least 66 journal reviews is a clear sign of trust from the academic community. Editors rely on respected experts to evaluate manuscripts, and his frequent invitations speak to his reputation for fairness, precision, and deep subject-matter expertise. One expert described his impact best: “His unique combination of skills, experience, and research focus positions him to make exceptional contributions that will substantially benefit our nation’s rural agricultural communities and the economy.”

With this compelling evidence, NAILG crafted an EB1A petition that told the story behind the achievements, the real-world needs his work addresses, the scholars who rely on his findings, and the communities whose futures stand to benefit. Once submitted, the case moved swiftly, and in just 16 days, he received his approval.

It has been an honor to support both his NIW and EB1A victories. His work promises to strengthen rural communities across the United States, and NAILG is proud to have played a role in helping him continue this important mission.