3 minute read
Changing Seasons
The work of farmers involves planting an investment of potential, nurturing that investment over time, and having faith that despite obstacles or unforeseeable challenges, potential will grow into something meaningful that will be used to feed and fuel the world. Likewise, a governing board requires the same investment, nurturing, faith and hard work, knowing something meaningful will result from their efforts and last beyond their tenure. If there’s one thing Illinois does really well, it’s grow.
Summertime is the season of board meetings at the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA). It includes changes in our leadership and, as a board-governed organization that depends on the support of our directors, this time of the year leaves us reflecting on the impact they have on the Illinois soybean industry.
The 24 volunteer farmers that make up ISA’s Board of Directors dedicate their free time to traveling around the state and country, meeting with legislators, hosting global customers on their farm, visiting influential organizations, interviewing with media outlets and ensuring your checkoff dollars are being spent in the right places, all to continue the growth of the agriculture industry in the state they call home.
This issue of Illinois Field & Bean will give you a behind-thescenes look at what to expect from us at this year’s Farm Progress Show. ISA will be showcasing the ways our board’s investment decisions ensure your farm will remain productive and profitable for years to come.
Last month, we elected new board members, and welcomed Ron Kindred, our previous Vice Chairman, to lead ISA’s Board of Directors. While change can be daunting at times, it’s imperative to the growth of our industry, and is something we see often within our organization.
Whether it's electing new leadership, investing in the professional growth of our staff and departments, taking on unfamiliar projects, expanding foreign markets or conducting new and innovative soybean research, change is what drives ISA forward.
In my three years as CEO, I’ve seen firsthand how the actions of our dedicated board have made positive change in the soybean industry through a number of initiatives. Their enthusiasm, volunteerism and commitment to representing their fellow soybean farmers is inspiring, and I can be sure when I say ISA would not be the organization it is today without the support of our farmer leaders.
To our past, present and future board members, thank you for your service and dedication to Illinois soy. We know that enacting change is not for the faint of heart, and the ISA staff, our partners, and Illinois' 43,000 soybean farmers are without question appreciative of the role you play in improving and growing the Illinois agriculture industry.
