By Cami Froneberger
Women make up 36% of the total population of U.S. farmers according to the USDA’s 2017 Census of Agriculture. Aside from female farmers, ranchers, and farm workers, women hold numerous roles in the agriculture industry. Some work to market agricultural products or services, educate students or the public, conduct important agricultural research, or hold executive positions in companies directly involved with agriculture. Women are a vital aspect of agriculture and this was evident at the Women in Agribusiness Summit.
The 11th annual Women in Agribusiness Summit was held in Dallas, TX on September 26-28, 2022. The Summit, created by HighQuest Partners, boasted an attendance of over 800 women involved in agriculture. As an attendee, I was afforded the opportunity to network and connect with women in agriculture from across the globe. All three days included educational and empowering sessions helping bring new perspectives into many prominent talking points in the industry. I felt the most important feature of the summit was the all female panels allowing women of all ages to share their stories, experiences, and advice. I was able to hear insights from producers, company executives, human relations, marketing, and more.
Pictured from left to right: Sara Faivre, Chris Rawley, Sandrine Mutezinka, and Cami Froneberger
As a proud supporter of women in agriculture, Harvest Returns was privileged to sponsor the attendance of Sandrine Mutezinka, a WIA student scholarship recipient. Sandrine is a student in the Master of Agribusiness program at Texas A&M University. It was a pleasure to be able to sit down and visit with her over lunch where we were able to share our passion for the industry.
“What an honor to be chosen as this year’s recipient of a full coverage sponsorship by Harvest Returns to attend the 2022 Women in Agribusiness Summit,” Sardine expressed. “This summit was such a truly exciting opportunity to learn more about the role and contributions of female executives, experts, and researchers while discussing the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the food and agricultural sector. This experience has played a pivotal role in shaping my career, and I am grateful and proud to be part of the 800 plus strong women who make this industry great!”
Summit attendees were able to venture up 470 feet to the Reunion Tower Geo Deck
Cami got to enjoy a “bird’s eye view” of downtown Dallas and beyond thanks to WIA sponsor Cargill
A look towards Fort Worth from Reunion Tower
Blue Bell Creameries brought ice cream on Summit day 2 for a sweet treat after lunch
Harvest Returns is committed to continuing to support women in agriculture. We are helping women-owned companies find a valuable connection with female investors.
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