Women in Ag Leadership Conference inspires success and growth

By Andi Anderson

The Women in Ag Leadership Conference, hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, is set to take place at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames on Dec. 4-5. The two-day event, themed “Breaking Ground, Seeding Success,” celebrates the hard work women dedicate to their agricultural careers and the rewards they achieve.

This year’s conference will feature over 26 speakers, offering sessions and workshops aimed at empowering women to lead in agriculture. Keynote speaker Heather Malenshek, CMO of Land O’ Lakes Inc., will share her insights on supporting farmers and promoting the importance of agriculture in America.

Workshops include Shelly Kruse’s session on building effective boards, an eight-step cycle for creating and sustaining strong leadership teams. Kiley Fleming from Iowa Mediation Services will focus on communication as a critical leadership skill.

Breakout sessions will highlight three entrepreneurial women who carved their niches in agriculture. Laura Cunningham of Skyview Farms, Natalie Paino of Hightail Delivery, and Meredith Nunnikhoven of Barnswallow Compostable Vases and Flowers will share their journeys of growth and success.

Panel discussions will feature Karen Rawson from the Farm Service Agency and Angie Treptow from Farm Credit Services of America, focusing on leadership in financial careers and strategies to support agriculture during challenging times.

In addition to workshops and sessions, attendees can participate in campus tours, Red Cross First Aid Certification, and networking with inspiring women in agriculture.

Early bird registration is available until Nov. 22, saving $20. Regular registration costs $140 for adults and $80 for students, with scholarships available. This conference, supported by sponsors like Farm Credit Services of America, provides an affordable opportunity for women to gain valuable skills and build meaningful connections.

For women seeking to lead and succeed in agriculture, this conference offers the tools, inspiration, and community to make it happen.

Photo Credit: iowa-state-university