Emerald Sigma Alpha Sorority
Times February 2020
Alumnae Featured in the Media Speaking Out On What is Happening in the Industry Over the past few years, being a farmer has proven to be tough. Between the changing climate, food trends and the stress of prices, famers have been trying to fight the odds.
can relate to or find useful. Mallory and her team are hoping the video will help reduce the stigma and encourage the board to give more help to their farmers.
The newest generation of agriculturalists are working on educating both farmers and consumers on pressing issues by advocating and creating media to help spread the message.
University of Wisconsin, Platteville and Sigma Alpha alumna, Amanda Sersch, is helping keep her family farm alive. Being a fifth generation famer, she is putting her Agribusiness degree to work. They have expanded beyond the barn into other ventures to keep all of their family members involved.
Last year the Midwest was hit with terrible weather. Combine that with poor crop prices across the country and stress starts to add up quickly. The Kansas State Research and Extension office produced a video titled “Farm Stress: You Are Not Alone” in an effort to help reduce the mental health stigma and encourage more farmers to seek help. Mallory Meek, a Sigma Alpha alumna and Kansas State extension agent, presented the video in the Douglas County Commissions meeting last month. Prior to the meeting, Mallory sent a letter to the commission board explaining that there needs to be more resources specifically for famers and their needs. She goes on to explain that the agriculture community has difficulty talking about mental health or finding resources they
Their other ventures, such as a trucking and excavating business, helps other farms continue to operate. This includes installing drain tile for farms and ditching or other excavating work that local farms happen to need. They also raise cattle and do custom work, which helps them to diversify their portfolio. Both Mallory and Amanda were featured in the news recently discussing their passions about farming and the direction of the industry. Mallory’s full article Amanda’s full video
In This Issue: President’s Message Leadership Seminar Facilitators Spirit of Ruth Recipients Regional Pillar Awards
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National Awards Making Perry Proud National Conclave Info National Ag Day Competition
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