Growing Together: Conversations with CEOs

Steve Censky, Chief Executive Officer, American Soybean Association
“The work of land-grand universities supports these {ASA’s} priorities through research that helps develop innovative practices, genetics, and products that improve soy’s efficiency and sustainability. This aids in increasing the competitiveness of U.S. soybean growers and ensuring they retain access to the best tools and information for their farms.”

Ted McKinney, Chief Executive Officer, The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture
“Put simply, the Purdue University undergraduate experience was the pinnacle of leadership development... Whether it was fraternity life and learning (Alpha Gamma Rho), numerous campus activity organizations, Honorary Societies, or athletics, it was on campus that the foundation was laid for all that came thereafter. I am forever grateful.”

Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council
Bramble's advice for youth and college students: “Lean into every opportunity to learn about yourself and the world around you. Say yes to projects outside your comfort zone. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Most importantly, know that your voice matters.”

Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm Bureau Federation
"At Farm Bureau, we strongly support both agricultural research and Cooperative Extension…America is falling behind in terms of public investments in agriculture research, and to compete and keep our leading edge, we need to make sure that our land-grants and Cooperative Extension programs have the necessary tools and resources."