Fourteen farmers elevate skills with AgriPOWER

By Andi Anderson

Fourteen farmers and agribusiness professionals from across Ohio have recently graduated from the Ohio Farm Bureau’s AgriPOWER Institute Class XIV.

This prestigious leadership program, established in 2008, aims to equip agricultural advocates with the skills and knowledge needed to influence public policy and support their communities.

The Class XIV graduates include Blake Adams of Leesburg, Jenna Brown of Utica, Deirdre Christy of Carey, Heather Coen of New Concord, Cristen Cramer of Woodville, Mia Grimes of Saint Paris, Hattie Hartschuh of Nevada, Lisa Holding of London, Olivia Krumwiede of Wakeman, Alicia McCracken of Beach City, Brianna Smith of Shelby, Shaeley Swick of Utica, Mary Wilhelm of New Bavaria, and Cora Willeke of Marengo.

Throughout the year-long program, participants engaged with industry experts to improve their leadership and advocacy skills, focusing on areas such as public speaking, media training, social networking, and communication strategies.

The program also provided participants with in-depth knowledge of public policy issues at the local, state, national, and global levels.

A highlight of the program included a visit to Washington, D.C., where the class learned about national and global agricultural issues and met with policymakers.

Additionally, participants visited diverse agricultural operations in Washington state to gain a broader understanding of agriculture’s regional differences and similarities across the U.S.

The AgriPOWER Institute is supported by key partners, including the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, Ohio Soybean Council, Farm Credit Mid-America, AgCredit, Legacy Farmers Cooperative, Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association, Certified Angus Beef, Stark County Farm Bureau, PBS Animal Health, and United Producers, Inc.

The AgriPOWER program is designed to prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping them with the skills to advocate effectively for the industry. As they return to their communities, these graduates will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of agriculture in Ohio and beyond.

Photo Credit: ohio-farm-bureau