Awards

IAW recognizes three women annually for their contributions to the industry, their community and our organization. Those categories include: Hall of Fame, Outstanding Business Woman and Farmer.  All three winners are recognized at the IAW Annual Meeting and our Hall of Fame winner is also recognized at the Illinois State Fair on Ag Day.

HALL OF FAME: This award is presented to an individual who has made high impact contributions to Illinois agriculture throughout her career.   Winners need not be a member of Illinois Agri-Women.

Please submit your nomination by December 31 to Sarah Michaels. Nomination narrative should be no longer than 400 words and include contact information for your nominee.

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We previously awarded three awards: Hall of Fame, Outstanding Woman Farmer, and Outstanding Agri-Business Women.

OUTSTANDING FARMER: Recognizing an individual involved in production agriculture who has exhibited exemplary skills in managing and operating the farming operation.  Open to all women in Illinois.

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS WOMAN: This award is presented to an individual involved in agribusiness or ag education who has exhibited high standards of service excellence and exceptional leadership skills throughout her career.

	Illinois Agri-Women Hall of Fame	Outstanding Illinois Woman Farmer	Outstanding Illinois Agri-Business Women
2023	Susan Wall	Lynn Curry	Sarah Micheals
2022	Pat Yeagle	Kristina Church	Deb Schultz
2021	Heather Hampton+Knodle	Shirley Bartelt	Gayle Baker
2020	Penny Lauritzen	Nathalie Schmidt	Anjie Erbsen
2019	Mary Meinhart	Kelsey Vance	Karen Westbrook
2018	Ruth Hambleton	Susan Wall	Mallory Tolley
2017	Linda Swiercinsky
2016	Christina Mosher Wilson	Mary Meinhart	Karen Blatter
2015		Patricia Yeagle
2014	Eleanor Zimmerlein	Meg Cavanaugh Brenda Besse	Amy Rogier
2013	Trenna Graobowski	Suzy Eilers	Jennifer Tim
2012	Joyce Watson	Shirley Bartelt	Brigitte Franzen
2011	Jean Ibendahl	Joanie Schonoe	Evelyn Brandt Thomas