2018 AAW National Convention Speaker Information
Illinois is not only the Pumpkin Capital of the World – it is at the global forefront in many research areas due to the contributions of women in agriculture and science. Dean Kim Kidwell, the Dean of the ACES (Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences) at the University of Illinois will introduce AAW 2018 National Convention attendees to Illinois- The Land of Innovation and Opportunity. Dr. Kidwell is “homegrown” returning to the University to serve as the Dean. She is an award-winning teacher and student mentor, outstanding academic administrator and accomplished researcher.
The simple act of plowing led John Duarte to become embroiled in litigation with the federal government. Mr. Duarte, a fourth generation farmer and owner of Duarte Nursery, Inc., will share the details of his landmark federal case related to wetlands at the Opening General Session of the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Animal genomics? Biotechnology? Does this sound like a foreign language to you? Dr. Alison Van Eenannaam will explain these terms as they relate to livestock production systems during her General Session on Friday morning at the AAW 2018 National Convention. Dr. Van Eenannaam will discuss and the thoughtful debates related to these controversial topics.
Are you curious about trade with Asia and beyond? Philip Seng has been recognized as leading voice and advocate for international meat trade over the past 35 years. Mr. Seng will help demystify issues related to foreign trade during his Friday luncheon presentation at the AAW 2018 National Convention. Mr. Seng’s presentation is sponsored by the Illinois Corn Growers.
If you are involved in farming in Illinois you recognize Rita Frazer’s voice. Rita is an award winning farm broadcaster most recently serving as the Director of the Radio for the Illinois Farm Bureau since 2015. Ms. Frazer will share her knowledge regarding communications during the Breakout Sessions Friday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Working with volunteers can be a challenge. A variety of schedules and activities competing for time, makes individuals less likely to volunteer. Dr. Ryan Follis will explain how team building activities helps strengthen volunteer commitment. Hear Dr. Follis during his Leadership presentation on Friday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Is living in a rural area different than a city? Yes, of course it is. It also takes different approaches to sustain, grow and develop the local economy. Valier Belusko is the Community and Economic Development Directors for Montgomery County in Illinois. Learn how a variety of rural boards and commissions can work together to strengthen rural communities at her Friday afternoon leadership presentation during the AAW 2018 National Convention.
How do we get the facts out about agriculture? Come hear Kim Bremmer share effective means of communicating with everyday consumers about where food comes from as well as the great successes of American agriculture. Kim is presenting on Friday during the Personal Development breakout sessions at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
“Farm Policy”. Does this sound overwhelming to you? Whether it is property rights, waterways or feeding the world, we have renown experts to unlock the mysteries behind these policies during the Breakout Sessions Friday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention. Dr, Stephanie Mercier (“Farmers Feeding the World”) and Matt Thompson (“Cautionary Tale of One Beef Producer”) are among the speakers who will share their wisdom.
Managing a farming operation can be an overwhelming, stressful situation for all members of the family as well as employees leading to mental health issues. Dr. Josie Rudolphi will share information regarding recognizing and accessing resources to alleviate farm related stress. Come hear her speak during the Breakout Sessions Friday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Toni Dunker is from Western Illinois where she lives and breathes commodity marketing. Attendees will benefit from Toni’s experience as she shares commodity marketing tools to help maximize profits during the Breakout Sessions Friday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Krista Swanson is the source of the blog, “The Real Housewives of Rural Illinois.” During the day, works to analyze the farm level impact of agriculture policy. In addition, she helps operate the family seed business and farm while raising three children. Krista will discuss the impact of the Chinese trade dispute on American agriculture during the Breakout Sessions, Friday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
What color are you? That’s a different question than what’s your favorite color. Susan Hanfland will lead participants through some exercises to help individuals understand how personality affects communication styles and productivity. Attend this hands-on “True Colors” workshop Saturday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Julie Borlaug works daily to champion her grandfather’s legacy and lend a voice to increasing, public and private collaborations to enhance agriculture technology and innovation. Julie is accomplished in her own right, putting her educational and professional efforts into training the next generation of “hunger fighters.” Julie will address these efforts as the keynote speaker at lunch on Saturday during the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Stephanie Dearwester was born and raised in west central Illinois. She dreamed of participating in pageants following in her sister’s footsteps. The dream provided her with the opportunity to develop her personal platform, “Planting the Seed: Agriculture Education for the Future.” It also led her to develop successful educational and business careers in agriculture. Stephanie will share her knowledge regarding personal style during the Breakout Sessions on Saturday at the AAW 2018 National Convention. Register at www.illinoisagriwomen.org.
Brigitte Franzen came to the United States with a Master’s Degree in Agriculture. After managing a hog farm in Central Illinois and building her own breeding stock business, Brigitte became a Certified Financial Planner specializing in working with farm families. Brigitte will share some of the tools and words of wisdom she has garnered over the years during the Saturday afternoon Breakout Sessions at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Do you shy away from conflict or attack it head on? Do you have knee jerk responses or opine (sometimes forever) when confronted with an uncomfortable situation requiring a response? Understanding conflict can result in positive results on both sides of the equation. Kristine Ranger will lead a workshop on how to channel your energies for more positive outcomes during the Saturday afternoon Breakout Sessions at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Representative Sonya Harper hails from the South Side of Chicago. She is an unlikely advocate for agriculture, understanding the importance of urban farming for community stability, food access and healthy living. Representative Harper will share her experiences and replicable examples of agriculture programs for urban areas. She will present during the Breakout Sessions on Saturday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Who likes to pay taxes? No one! Who understands the new laws? Cody Stewart! Cody will set the record straight regarding some of the recent changes to the IRS laws during the Breakout Sessions on Saturday afternoon at the AAW 2018 National Convention.
Cap off your convention experience leaving inspired after Saturday evening’s banquet. AAW’s closing keynote will be delivered Dr. Nash Naam. Dr. Naam is Egyptian by birth. He came to America to perform his residency in St. Louis in the late 1970’s. He never left. Dr. Nash will share his heartwarming story about his journey during the dinner keynote address on Saturday during the AAW 2018 National Convention.
