Ohio Farm Bureau Young Agricultural Professional Mike Hannelwald of Lucas County is the winner of the 2023 American Farm Bureau Discussion Meet. The contest was held as part of the 104th American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems.
Hannewald developed a strong interest in farming while growing up on the family farm, just outside of Waterville, and became very active in 4-H and FFA. A Lucas County Farm Bureau member, he earned his bachelor's degree in agronomy from The Ohio State University. He is an agronomist and precision farming adviser for Beck's Hybrids, covering northern Ohio and northeastern Indiana and remains actively involved on the family farm. He was the Ohio Discussion Meet winner for 2022.
As the champion of this national contest, Hannewald received a $35,000 credit toward a new Ford vehicle and paid registration to the 2023 AFBF FUSION Conference in Jacksonville, Fla., courtesy of Ford.
"I am extremely proud to be representing Ohio Farm Bureau in this competition," Hannewald said. "It was an incredible experience to take part in very high level conversations about critical topics in agriculture with talented young people from around the country. I appreciate the support of Ohio Farm Bureau and the opportunity to take part in this incredible event."
The Discussion Meet contest is part of the Ohio Farm Bureau Young Agricultural Professionals and American Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher programs. Participants are ages 18 to 35, single or married, who are interested in improving the business of agriculture, learning new ideas and developing leadership skills.
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