OMAHA, Neb. (October 1, 2026): As the world celebrates the United Nations-designated International Year of the Woman Farmer, three leaders representing the collaborating Associations Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica), AgCountry Farm Credit Services (AgCountry), and Frontier Farm Credit were selected to participate in the Farm Credit Council's Women of Distinction Program.
The leadership development program brings together outstanding women from across the Farm Credit System, including directors, customers, and employees. Participants focus on resilience, strategic decision-making, mentorship, and professional growth through shared learning and networking opportunities. They also gain insights from leaders at different stages of their careers and build connections that strengthen leadership across agriculture and rural America.
Representing the Associations at this year's program were Kelli Berg, board director, FCSAmerica; Lynn Pietig, board director, AgCountry; and Barb Downey, board director, Frontier Farm Credit.
“We’re proud to have women in leadership roles throughout our Associations including teammates, senior leaders, and members of our boards of directors,” said Mark Jensen, president and CEO of FCSAmerica, AgCountry, and Frontier Farm Credit. “Through their service and leadership, directors like Kelli, Lynn and Barb help shape the future of our Associations, represent the voices of producers, and inspire future generations of agricultural leaders.”
"One of the biggest takeaways for me was that we all have something to learn from each other,” said Pietig. “Whether you're an experienced board leader, a staff member, or a producer, there's value in every perspective when you're willing to listen and learn." Pietig and her husband operate Pietig Farms, a fifth-generation farm where they raise corn and soybeans. She owns and operates Pietig Book-Works, a tax and accounting business. Pietig also serves as treasurer for Morgan Memorial Foundation, Inc., a nursing home and assisted living facility. Pietig was elected to the AgCountry Board in 2015.
Berg is the managing owner of Berg Farm Enterprises, LLC, an operation that includes corn and soybean production, as well as turkey brooder and finisher production sites, which she runs with her husband. Berg was elected to the FCSAmerica Board in 2025. When reflecting on her experience with the leadership program, Berg said, “It reminded me that leadership is not just about what we accomplish today, but about the people and opportunities we leave behind. We have an opportunity to make a difference for those who come after us, particularly young women who are looking for examples of what is possible.”
Downey is also looking to inspire the next generation. “The message that resonated to me in regard to young women starting their careers in ag is that no one, male or female, even at the highest levels of leadership ever has all the answers,” she said. “Do your best to gather the relevant information then move forward.” Downey is CEO of Downey Ranch, Inc., which operates an Angus and Sim Angus seedstock herd, supplying bulls and bred females to ranches in Kansas and the Midwest. In addition, Downey is the CEO of DRI-Carpenter LLC, a commercial Angus-based herd. She is a founding member of U.S. Premium Beef, and finished beef is marketed through their delivery rights. She is a member of the Kansas State University Livestock & Meat Industry Council Board and Chair of the Kansas State University Livestock and Meat Industry Council Nominating Committee. Downey was elected to the Frontier Farm Credit Board in 2025.
Participation in the Women of Distinction Program reflects the Associations' commitment to developing the next generation of agricultural leaders and expanding leadership opportunities for producers of all backgrounds and generations. Through their participation, Pietig, Berg, and Downey serve as visible role models for young and beginning farmers and demonstrate the many ways they can shape the future of agriculture.
