“All Roads Lead to Kansas City” set the tone for the 2025 American Agri-Women (AAW) National Convention, held November 6–9, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. Illinois Agri-Women members Anjie Erbsen (IAW President), Heather Hampton-Knodle, Ardith DeWall, Pat Yeagle, Shirley Bartelt, Shelley Wintjen, and Vikkie Becker joined nearly 75 attendees from across the country—along with a few supportive husbands—for four days of learning, leadership, and fellowship.
The event took place at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Kansas City International Airport, where the convention attendees were welcomed from the first check-in to the final goodbye. Hugs from old friends and the joy of making new meaningful connections filled each day.
Thursday began with a “Taste of Kansas” reception featuring local flavors and time to reconnect. John Deere representatives provided an update on the Right to Repair initiative, and AAW Past President Kathy Reavis led a thoughtful discussion on immigration issues affecting agriculture.
On Friday, attendees toured the National Agricultural Hall of Fame before enjoying an evening BBQ dinner and presentations by the Peterson Farm Brothers, Stephanie Moreda-Arend of The Dairy Girl Diaries, and speakers from MAHA. During the program, Marcie Williams presented the Peterson Farm Brothers with the Veritas Award, which recognizes individuals who communicate the truth about agriculture through honest advocacy, education, and outreach.
Saturday focused on AAW business meetings and two professional development sessions, “Let’s Get Professional” and “Professional Etiquette,” led by Diane Johnson. That evening, the Annual Awards Banquet brought members together to celebrate leadership and install the 2025–2026 Executive Committee. New officers include President Kim Bremmer of Wisconsin, First Vice President Maggie Howley of Montana, Vice President of Communications Vikkie Becker of Illinois, and Treasurer Sheila Currie of Maine. Continuing officers are Past President Rose Tryon of California, Vice President of Education Debbie Bacigalupi of California, and Secretary Alex Henderson of Texas.
Several awards were presented during the banquet. The LEAVEN Award was given to Kim Bremmer by Chrissy Wozniak, (on behalf of Jacquie Compston) and Vicki Coughlin, also presented to Helle Goddik Ruddenklau of Oregon by Marcie Williams. This award honors longtime AAW members whose leadership, dedication, and steady service help the organization grow. The Rising Star Award was presented by Rose Tryon to Vikkie Becker in recognition of her emerging leadership, enthusiasm, and strong future potential within AAW.
Sunday concluded the convention with an optional worship service before attendees headed home—renewed, reconnected, and ready for another year of advancing agriculture together.
The 2026 AAW National Convention is still in the planning stages, dates and locations will be announced at a later date.