Young Leaders in Agribusiness Recognized by Ag Business Council

Young Leaders Making Waves in Agriculture

Kansas City, MO, May 16, 2024 – Seven exceptional individuals in the agricultural landscape have been acknowledged for their outstanding leadership and dedication by the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City. The 2024 honorees for ‘Young Leaders in Agribusiness’ were nominated by their employers and selected by the Council for their exemplary passion, leadership, and business acumen.

“These individuals truly represent the future. They are the next generation of executives who will lead the agribusiness sector,” said Ron Seeber, Chair of the KC Ag Business Council and CEO of the Kansas Grain and Feed Association, the Kansas Ag Retailers, and Renew Kansas.

Award Recipients Spotlighted

A variety of roles in agribusiness were represented, ranging from education and public relations to cutting-edge research and engineering, highlighting the diversity and potential in this field. The recognized young leaders for 2024 include Caitlin Baker, Janelle Commodore, Haley Larson, Ph.D., Nathan Laudan, Jara Settles, Julie Warner, and Johnny Weidmaier.

Leaders from Different Sectors

Caitlin Baker currently manages Plant Nutrition and Animal Feed products for Compass Minerals. Being raised on a ranch, Baker has a profound understanding of the agriculture industry, and she and her husband now operate their own cow-calf and hay operation in Missouri.

Janelle Commodore joined Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) in 2018. Her current role as Director of Strategy and Insights sees her drive DFA’s strategic planning process and ensure alignment with existing business plans and performance goals.

For her exceptional work in the field of animal health, Dr. Haley Larson was recognized. As a teaching Assistant Professor at Kansas State University’s Olathe campus, Dr. Larson leads educational programs, conducts research, and advises graduate students.

Nathan Laudan is director of the American Royal Association and manages all youth and adult education programs, scholarships, and educational outreach efforts.

At the Livestock Marketing Association, Jara Settles serves as a General Counsel and Vice President of Risk Mitigation, making a significant impact on the agriculture industry.

Julie Warner uses her skills in public relations to drive results for various agriculture clients as a Senior PR and Content Specialist.

Finally, Johnny Weidmaier oversees the production of active ingredients for herbicides and fungicides at Bayer CropScience’s Kansas City site, demonstrating the key role of engineering in agribusiness.

Honoring their Achievements

The Council will honor these young leaders at a reception in Kansas City on July 9. This event will not only recognize their contributions but also serve as a platform to inspire others in the sector.

About the Agricultural Business Council

With more than 350 members associated with the food and agribusiness industry, the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City remains an influential organization. Agribusiness continues to play a substantial role in the Kansas City region’s economic framework, constituting 8 percent of the workforce and contributing 22 percent of the region’s gross products.