Empowering women in agriculture through skills, support, and networking
The Women in Ag Leadership Conference, organized by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, will be held at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa, on Dec. 4 and 5.
This year’s theme, “Breaking Ground, Seeding Success,” reflects the commitment and resilience of women in agriculture and the rewards that come from dedication to their work.
The two-day event offers opportunities for career development, leadership skills, and discussions on current trends in agriculture. An exciting addition to the program is the Red Cross First Aid and Life-Threatening Bleeding and Tourniquet Application certification course, available for interested attendees.
Wednesday’s agenda includes campus tours with various themes, such as a Victorian-era Christmas exhibit and insights into Regenerative Agriculture. Iowa’s advocate for women in agriculture, Lexi Marek Beeler, will open the conference by sharing practical actions women can take to make an impact.
Intensive workshops throughout the day will cover topics such as mental strength, effective leadership, land management, and developing a farm vision. The evening will feature dinner, social networking, and a chance to connect with fellow attendees.
Thursday’s keynote speaker is Heather Malenshek from Land O’ Lakes Inc., recognized by Forbes as a top chief marketing officer. Malenshek’s talk will focus on helping others realize their full potential in their agricultural careers.
The conference will also honor the 2024 Women Impacting Ag honorees—Chris Cornelius, Julie Kenney, Wendy Johnson, and Janette Smith—who will share stories of their contributions to agriculture. The luncheon will include a panel discussion on finance and the farm economy with leaders Angie Treptow and Karen Rawson.
Breakout sessions will cover topics like entrepreneurship, family business transitions, effective communication, and farm management. The conference will close with remarks from April Hemmes, a leader in farming and advocate for women in agriculture, sharing insights from her 40 years of experience.
Early bird registration, available until Nov. 22, offers a $20 discount. Standard registration is $140 for adults and $80 for students, with scholarships available. To register, visit www.regcytes.extension.iastate.edu/womeninag. Major sponsorship support comes from Farm Credit Services of America.
The ISU Women in Ag Program aims to enhance life quality for Iowa women in agriculture by offering education and resources that empower and unite them.
Photo Credit: Land O Lakes