The American Soybean Association (ASA) DuPont Young Leaders spent their time in New Orleans at the Commodity Classic completing their training in leadership, marketing, ag issues and discussion.  Their efforts were honored at the ASA annual awards banquet.  This event marks 32 classes that have gone through the program.

“For many years, the ASA DuPont Young Leader program has filled the critical role of identifying new and emerging leaders in the soybean industry and then training them to be strong voices and advocates for agriculture,” said ASA President Richard Wilkins. “We’re grateful to DuPont Pioneer and DuPont Crop Protection for their commitment to this program and for helping secure the future of the soybean industry.”

Members of the 2016 class of ASA DuPont Young Leaders are: Brady Peek, Ala.; Derek Holden and Amanda Crangle, Ark.; Jeff and Dianne Barlow, Canada; Aaron and Melanie Thompson, Del.; Brian Ogletree, Ga.; Alan and Kara Hill, Ill.; John Wildermuth, Ind.; Ethon Smith and Ally Leggett, Iowa.; Matthew Atkinson and Mary Ann Ross, Kan.; Ben and Katie Furnish, Ky.; Adam and Lindsey Hendricks, Ky.; Vincent and Krysten Cannatella, La.; Nikolaj Morris and Crystal Johnson, La.; Mike Opificius, Mich.; Rodd and Jamie Beyer, Minn.; Taylor and Rebecca Tesch, Minn.; Paul Muirhead, Miss.; Andrew and Jennifer Lance, Mo.; John and Stephanie Thompson, Mo.; Wade and Abby Walters, Neb.; Brett Medlin, N.C.; Greg and Monica Gussiaas, N.D.; Luke Ryan, Ohio; Joshua and Kara Kayser, S.D.; Don Holbert, Tenn.; Brett Wightman, Va.; John and Julie Mills, Va.; and Rochelle and Evan Schnadt, Wis. Also pictured above: Richard Wilkins, ASA president and Kevin Diehl, DuPont director of regulatory strategy and industry affairs.

“The ASA DuPont Young Leader program has a proud tradition of developing strong advocates for American agriculture,” said Steve Reno, DuPont Pioneer vice president, regional business director – US & Canada. “Having had the opportunity to spend some time with them, I can say that this year’s class is carrying forward that tradition of excellence, and we appreciate their commitment to the Young Leader program.”