Governance Elections | Farm Credit Services of America

2021 ELECTION OVERVIEW

Thank you for visiting the Board Elections page. The 2021 elections have concluded.

DIRECTOR CANDIDATE INFORMATION

Race 1: 4-Year Term

Lindsay Greiner

Residence and business located in Keota, Iowa

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Birth Year: 1960

Occupation: Farming
I started farming in 1978, right out of high school. I currently farm with my wife, my son and his wife. We grow corn, soybeans, hay and contract feed pigs. I did have a cow herd in the past but discontinued that enterprise.

Education:
Worldwide College of Auctioneering, graduate
1978 FFA Iowa Farmer Degree and Star Southeast District Star Iowa Farmer
1980 American Farmer Degree

Current Leadership:
Iowa Soybean Association Board
United Soybean Board

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE BOARD:

I have been farming for quite a few years, and my passion for our industry is as strong as ever. I believe agriculture has a bright future. In whatever way I can have an impact on that future, I would like to do my part. I have done business with Farm Credit Services of America for many years and have witnessed firsthand their commitment to agriculture. I credit the success of my farm to the fact that I do business with Farm Credit Services of America. The knowledge that their employees have and their passion for their job shows.

EXAMPLE OF A LEADERSHIP ROLE THAT HAS PREPARED ME FOR A POSITION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

As a past president of the Iowa Soybean Association Board, I made an effort to run the meetings efficiently and place people in positions that played to their strengths. I attended many meetings all over the United States and the world. This position really gave me a good idea of how to deal and communicate with fellow board members and customers around the world.

CANDIDATE DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE AND/OR EDUCATION:

Strategic Planning: I have been part of strategic planning for our local co-op, the School Board and the Iowa Soybean Association, and we are currently working on a strategic plan for the United Soybean Board. Strategic planning is a group effort by the board. It takes a lot of work and a lot of thought. You have to be forward-thinking to position the organization for the future. Strategic planning is vital to the future of the business - without a plan, you will not know which direction to go.

Corporate Governance: Having served on several boards, I understand that good governance by the board is critical to the organization. This is achieved by providing oversight of the financial activities, the mission and achievement of goals set by the strategic plan. A good working relationship between the board and CEO is also important in this process.

Financial Reporting: I served as Treasurer for the Iowa Soybean Association Board. When dealing with financials, it is the job of the entire board to oversee that the financial position of the organization remains strong so you can continue to serve customers in the manner they deserve and are accustomed to.

Business Technology: Most of my experience with business technology is related to our farming operations using GPS. I also have experience using Diligent technology as a director.

Risk Management: I do risk management and oversight every day on the farm. It's just not enough to show up and work every day, you have to assess risk all the time so you can make decisions on how to move the business forward. Oversight needs to be constant because things change all the time, and you have to be ready to change with them.

Talent Management: I have never had a full-time employee. My son is a contract employee on the farm. I think I know how to deal with and communicate with employees. I have worked with many employees in other organizations.

Nick Hunt

Residence and business located in Atlantic, IA

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Birth Year: 1953

Occupation: Farming
I own and manage a fourth-generation family farm in southwest Iowa. With the help of outstanding employees, we grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa and maintain a commercial cow herd. Our main enterprise, however, is a cattle feedlot and backgrounding yard.

Education:
Dartmouth College, B.A. degree
FCCS Premier Governance Series (PGS), certified director

Current Leadership:
Director, Farm Credit Services of America
Member, Atlantic School Board
Director, Cattle Fax
Director, Cass Co. Hospital Foundation

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE BOARD:

I want to serve as a Director for Farm Credit Services of America because I believe I can add value in the boardroom. Because of my past Board leadership experience and Board tenure, I can give historical perspectives on issues, mentor our newest Directors, and when needed, I can be a resource for our CEO and Board chairperson.

EXAMPLE OF A LEADERSHIP ROLE THAT HAS PREPARED ME FOR A POSITION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

I had the opportunity to serve as the chairperson of the Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit Coordinating Committee Board of Directors. The opportunity allowed me to work closely with excellent CEOs and leaders, Doug Stark and Mark Jensen. Serving as chairperson taught me to be a good listener, the importance of communication and the value of thoughtful thinking and clear speaking.

CANDIDATE DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE AND/OR EDUCATION:

Strategic Planning: Strategic planning is one of the main responsibilities of a board director. I have taken a Farm Credit System strategic planning course. I have helped develop our Association's strategic plans. Presently, I am involved in strategic planning as a School Board Member and as a Director of Cattle Fax.

Corporate Governance: Business integrity is the essence of good corporate governance. The Board must maintain and strengthen trust between all stakeholders: the Board, management, team members and customers. During my tenure on the Farm Credit Services of America Board, I have gained experience and knowledge concerning all aspects of corporate governance.

Financial Reporting: Since becoming a Farm Credit Services of America Director, I have gained a considerable amount of experience, knowledge and training in financial reporting. I currently serve on our Board's Audit Committee, which is responsible for the accuracy of Farm Credit Services of America's financial statements. I prepare financial records for my own farm as well as three family investment trusts and three family farm partnerships.

Business Technology: I try to keep abreast of changes in technology that can benefit my farming operation. I have always used a complete farm business accounting software program to track each enterprise's profitability. The feedlot uses Capital Performance Beef Analytics to track cattle performance and run closeouts. I use an iPad to stay current on news, markets and correspondence. Zoom and GoToMeeting have become vital tools for me to use for face-to-face meetings when it is not possible to meet in person.

Risk Management: As a Farm Credit Services of America Director, I help oversee the Association's enterprise risk management plans, which involves an annual risk assessment and stress testing. I make risk management decisions every day as a farmer and cattle feeder. Every week I conference with other cattle feeders and a consultant to help plan my hedge program. To keep abreast of current economic events that influence agriculture and the credit market, I read business publications and the Wall Street Journal daily.

Talent Management: Through the years, I have been able to build a team of loyal employees on my farm. This experience, and observing Farm Credit Services of America's team culture, has made me realize a company is only as good as its employees. I consider our workplace culture at Farm Credit Services of America one of our greatest assets. I have served on the Human Capital Committee and have also taken training in this area.

Race 2: 4-Year Term

Jeff Burg

Residence and business located in Wessington Springs, South Dakota

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Birth Year: 1968

Occupation: Farming and Ranching
President and owner of diversified grain and livestock farm owned with my brother. We raise corn, soybeans, small grains and alfalfa and run spring and fall calving beef cows. We also own and operate a DENR-permitted feedlot.

Education:
FCCS Premier Governance Series, Excellence in Board Leadership, Financial Direction of the Enterprise and Managing Risk courses
South Dakota State University, B.S. Ag Business / Animal Science minor
South Dakota National Guard

Current Leadership:
Director, Farm Credit Services of America
Chairperson, Farm Credit Services of America Business Risk Committee
South Dakota Corn Growers - Director District 7 Representative for South Dakota Corn, U.S. Meat Export Federation
Chairman, Wessington Springs Township

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE BOARD:

I believe I can bring an understanding of the current farm / ranch situation to the Board. I deal with several young and beginning farmer-feeders on a day-to-day basis. I want to be an advocate for all farmers large and small. I want to ensure Farm Credit Services of America remains a viable option for many years to come. With the amount of capital required by today's operations, a strong ag bank is a must for the future of modern-day agriculture.

EXAMPLE OF A LEADERSHIP ROLE THAT HAS PREPARED ME FOR A POSITION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Several years ago, as president of our family farm corporation, I could see we were going to need to diversify to survive and grow. We decided to grow our feedlot. We had just been backgrounding feeder cattle. We decided to start custom-finishing and finishing our own cattle. We grew this into our current permitted feedlot. I feel my forward-looking and calculated growth ideas would benefit the Farm Credit Services of America Board of Directors.

CANDIDATE DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE AND/OR EDUCATION:

Strategic Planning: After graduating from South Dakota State University, I went to work for Cargill in Byers, Colorado, in their elevator manager program. After two years, I took an opportunity to move back to South Dakota and sell feed for GTA Feeds. I always wanted to be back on the farm full time, but our farm just wouldn't support it. This is when I put the plan together to grow the feedlot. It just keeps evolving. We are just like many value-added ventures. Each piece supports the other. Corn and hay used in feedlot and manure used to grow crops.

Corporate Governance: Our duty as Directors is to protect and perpetuate our cooperative so it is a viable entity to provide funding and help enhance performance for our current and future generations of customers. We are not elected to micromanage the cooperative but to ensure management follows Board policies put in place to protect the best interests of our fellow customer-owners.

Financial Reporting: I do all of the accounting, DENR reports, corporate filings and Farm Service Agency reporting for our farm corporation. I use QuickBooks for our accounting software, pay all bills and run financial reports. I am the main contact with our loan officer. I provide the Association with new business proposals, justifying the need for additional capital. I run meetings for both the Springs Country Club and Wessington Springs Township Board. I was also on our local Co-op Board when we decided to merge with South Dakota Wheat Growers.

Business Technology: I use the Farm Credit Services of America app on a daily basis (remote deposit and loan balances). We use both Seed Sense and Yield Sense from Precision Planting. This allows us to track performance of each field and each hybrid, thus allowing us to know our cost of production. Probably the best business technology we use is Performance Beef Analytics. It allows us to track each pen or group of cattle to know breakeven at any time during the feeding period and do a better job of marketing.

Risk Management: The first step to risk management is knowing your cost of production. The tools we have today to track our cost of production are amazing. They allow you to adjust your crop mix to optimize profitability. They also help you figure out what weight or gender of cattle are going to give you the best chance to be profitable. Once you know these costs, you can market accordingly. I use a combination of futures, options and packer or elevator contracts.

Talent Management: Your employees are your most important assets. You need to provide them the tools they need to perform their responsibilities. The easier you make things, the more likely it is to get done, get done right and in a timely manner. I have a good friend that runs a large ag company. He told me when you find an outstanding person you hire them and figure out a position for them. I believe this. If you surround yourself with good people, they make you look good, too.

Jared Questad

Residence and business in Baltic, South Dakota

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Birth Year: 1991

Occupation: Farming
My occupation entails a custom feed yard, corn and soybean farming, and selling Pioneer^® seed/chemical.

Education:
South Dakota Ag and Rural Leaders (SDARL), graduate
Lake Area Tech, Associate degree Agricultural Business

Current Leadership:
Director, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association
Director, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association Cattle Feeder Council
Vice President, Sioux Basin Cattlemen's Association
Council Member, West Nidaros Lutheran Church

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE BOARD:

I feel my leadership experience on other boards and SDARL gives me the confidence to speak freely when making decisions as a director and to ensure those decisions consider young producers trying to achieve a way of life in the ag sector. As a younger producer who has experienced financial trials and rewards, I can convey the need to expand programs to enrich the potential for young farmers to grow in their ability to have great operations in the future.

EXAMPLE OF A LEADERSHIP ROLE THAT HAS PREPARED ME FOR A POSITION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Through my experience with SDARL, I have gained the speaking and leadership skills to be an effective Board member in confidence and awareness of how to convey the message in a correct manner. Also, with SDARL, I learned how to delegate responsibilities for my farm and business, so I can leave and be fully committed to the Board. I also learned how to respectfully disagree with other opinions and discuss them in an appropriate manner.

CANDIDATE DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE AND/OR EDUCATION:

Strategic Planning: In my farm and seed business, I annually review the direction each entity is heading and what course we can take to be the most effective and profitable to a sustainable and growing future. In my church, I am on a Planning Committee to make building and evangelism decisions to steer our church in directions to strengthen it for the short term and for generations to come. In the church, I have found how a committee structure is a crucial part of how to delegate responsibilities for narrower decisions.

Corporate Governance: My time on the Board of Directors with South Dakota Cattlemen's Association gives me a great understanding of corporate governance by creating policies to ensure there is direction given to our executive director and lobbyist in a clear manner.

Financial Reporting: My experiences with financial planning and budgeting have given me a great understanding of report-reading and how each segment is reported through audit committees to ensure the correct information is displayed and conveyed.

Business Technology: In my work with cattle feeding, farming and seed sales, I use many different technologies for cattle tracking, farm bookkeeping, and inventory and invoicing for seed. I am able to use and understand multiple systems in an efficient and effective way.

Risk Management: Risk management has been a key to my success as a young producer. I strive to make decisions with enough risk to have a great return yet still have safeguards in place to secure profitability. By overseeing so many different entities, I have a unique perspective to better each one, whether by resource management or employee management.

Talent Management: In my businesses, I have had the opportunity to have different employees learn how to manage each with differing perspectives and talents. I have learned how to utilize their strengths and teach in their weaknesses to help promote the strength of the business.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE CANDIDATE INFORMATION

Race 1

Megan Holz

Grand Junction, IA

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Occupation: Senior Audit Manager
I am a Senior Audit Manager at Wells Fargo, where I manage a team of auditors, reviewing consumer lending and banking activities. My husband and I also have a farming operation in central Iowa where we operate a cattle feedlot, own a cover crop business and raise row crops.

Education:
Creighton University, B.S. Business Administration/Accounting
Licensed CPA

Current Leadership:
Secretary, Greene County Community Foundation
Deacon, First Presbyterian Church

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I have a high regard for Farm Credit Services of America as a customer-owner, and I am interested in the overall governance of the institution and continuing to help it succeed. I believe I can be an asset to the Nominating Committee through my diverse and relevant background and experience.

Noah Taylor

Bouton, IA

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Occupation: Farming
I am a young farmer located in Dallas county, focusing on row crops, small grains, cover crops, hay, cow-calf seedstock production, a feedlot, as well as niche farrow-to-finish operation. I also recently started a custom application and haying business in the area.

Education:
Northwest Missouri State, B.S. degree

Current Leadership:
Beef Superintendent, Dallas County Fair
Member, Dallas County Youth Committee
Board Member, Dallas County Cattlemen's Association
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I want to serve in order to help find and present candidates to voting members that will work toward continuing Farm Credit Services of America's strong stability and commitment to farmers and ranchers. I feel it is important to source candidates that value and understand the wide diversity of farmers and ranchers across the territory, as well as continuing Farm Credit Services of America's unwavering support of young farmers.

Race 2

Kaleb Appelgate

Marshalltown, IA

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Occupation: Farming
My wife and I operate a corn/soybean row crop operation with my parents, and we independently raise hogs. We do some custom farming, with the bulk of those acres being late season nitrogen application. My wife and I also operate a small kennel raising golden retriever puppies.

Education:
Iowa State University, Agricultural Studies, emphasis in Ag Business/Agronomy minor
Pork Quality Assurance^® Plus Certification
Transport Quality Assurance^® Certification
Private Pesticide Applicator Certification
Golden Retriever Club of America and American Kennel Club registered kennel owner

Current Leadership:
Leadership Development Team, Cornerstone Church
Connection Group Leader, Cornerstone Church
Response Team, Farm Bureau

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: We believe in the vision of Farm Credit Services of America to serve agriculture. After using Farm Credit Services of America as our primary lender for many years, we have seen the strength of the company and how the Association really does make supporting customers its number one priority. I feel my diverse background in row crops, livestock and kennel operation gives me the experience and knowledge to advocate for the many different operations served by Farm Credit Services of America.

Brock Hansen

Baxter, IA

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Occupation: Farming
My wife, Robin, and I have a row crop, corn and soybean operation with a small cow-calf herd, a small ag repair business and a small trucking business. We farm directly with my parents yet are two separate farms. Together, we work as a team to accomplish our daily tasks on and off the farm.

Education:
Northeast Community College, B.S. degree
John Deere Tech School Program
Certified Fire Fighter 1

Current Leadership:
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee
Fire Chief, Baxter Fire Department

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Robin and I both enjoy giving back to our community. With our busy lives, this does not require that much time; however, the reward factor from feeling involved is huge. Getting to know some of the inner works of Farm Credit Services of America, I realize how strong the Association is and its value. Getting to know the other Committee members and learn from their experiences has been beneficial.

Race 3

Jeff Burkley

Geneva, IA

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Occupation: Farming
My agricultural business operations currently include row crop corn and soybean production, contract market hog feeding, and a seed and chemical dealership.

Education:
Iowa State University, B.S. Agronomy
North Iowa Area Community College, Associate of Science
Certified crop advisor
Leadership and personnel management training courses

Current Leadership:
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee
Franklin County Historical Society Board
Franklin County Pheasants Forever Board

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I view serving on the Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee as an opportunity to learn more about the organization, give back to the agriculture industry and develop new skills and relationships, which can help me grow as a person and improve my ag business knowledge.

Ryan Vavroch

Elberon, IA

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Occupation: Farming
I farm in Tama and Benton counties on a corn/soybean rotation. Work ethic, technology and proper management are large contributors to the sustainability of our operation.

I also operate a regional trucking company, moving agricultural products locally and throughout the Midwest.

Education:
Iowa State University, B.S. Ag Studies
Hawkeye Community College, Ag Business

Current Leadership:
Board of Directors, Tama-Benton Cooperative

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I enjoy being involved in organizations and businesses that are centered around agriculture and especially those that are a benefit to the American farmer. I am proud of the growth both personally and professionally that I have been able to achieve. Like most farmers, I am always excited to learn and give back in any way possible to better our industry. Farm Credit Services of America is a great organization focused on agriculture and its success, and I am as well.

Race 4

Steve Dolch

Villisca, IA

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Occupation: Farming and Ranching
I co-own and operate a row crop, cow-calf herd and small feedlot with my brother. We grow corn, soybeans and hay. We use records to make day-to-day decisions. Our fat cattle are sold on the grid with carcass data received in order to trail which cows are financially viable to our operation. Much effort is given to improve the operation internally as to what we have versus getting bigger.

Education:
Colorado State University, B.S. Animal Science / Production option

Current Leadership:
At-Large Representative, Iowa FFA Alumni Board
President, East Ridge Condo Association
Township Director, Montgomery County Farm Bureau
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I feel my years of farming/ranching and board experience will be beneficial to the work of the Nominating Committee. I would like to expand on what I learned serving during the past year and assist with the selection of top quality Director candidates for Farm Credit Services of America. I feel it is important for candidates to understand what patrons desire from their lender, as well as being committed to educating the next generation on where their food comes from.

Jeremy Reiling

Winthrop, IA

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Occupation: Farming
I own and operate a third-generation farm with my wife and our children. We raise corn, soybeans and swine. We are custom and independent swine producers. Our operation also includes a custom manure pumping business.

Education:
Commercial Manure Applicator Certification
Pork Quality Assurance^® Plus Certification
Certified Private Pesticide Applicator Certification

Current Leadership:
Director of Operations, Reiling Farms
Financial Manager, Reiling Farms
Team Leader, Reiling Farms

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I feel there are opportunities to learn, grow, educate and push myself to be a better producer, farmer and person. I feel it will open my eyes to new experiences, people, operations, opportunities and agriculture as a whole. I enjoy meeting new people, and I feel it would be a great opportunity to learn from other successful producers.

Race 5

Gregory Jochum

Salix, IA

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Occupation: Farming
My wife and I own and operate a row crop farming operation in western Iowa. We grow corn, soybeans and alfalfa.

Education:
South Dakota State, B.S. Agronomy and Ag Business

Current Leadership:
Chairman, Siouxland Ag in the Classroom
Woodbury County Farm Bureau Board

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I want to be part of the cooperative process to help Farm Credit Services of America find the best candidates to fill its Board of Directors positions. As an active member in the Farm Bureau, I have witnessed grassroots organizations work. I look forward to being part of the Farm Credit Services of America nomination process.

Jason Madden

Armstrong, IA

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Occupation: Farming
I have a farming operation in corn and soybean rotation. I also feed cattle in my feedlot at home and in custom yards.

Education:
South Dakota State University, B.S. Ag Economics
Iowa State Ag School of Banking

Current Leadership:
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I want to serve the patrons of Farm Credit Services of America so that the Association is able to remain a leader in the farm financial services market.

Race 6

Shane Greckel

Bloomfield, NE

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Occupation: Farming
A fifth-generation farmer, I produce corn and soybeans and have a cow-calf operation and small feed yard. I have made many investments in my family farm to continue its prosperity as well as its technology. Upgrading main units to full GPS and Autosteer capability has increased production while reducing costs such as labor and fuel on the farm. I have a strong background in technology. This background has led me to use the technology around us in the ag field to help producers boost productivity and reduce costs to maintain a strong ag community. I am also involved in many community activities throughout the year, from helping with county fairs, church stands and local ag promotion events.

Education:
Northeast Community College
Mount Marty College
Both pursuant to a degree in computer and systems design

Current Leadership:
Commissioner, Nebraska Information Technology Commission
Owner/Operator of Greckel Farms LLC
Chairperson, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: In all of my leadership roles, I have strived for promoting excellence in ag. If re-elected to the Nominating Committee, I would bring many assets of knowledge and experience from my time in various entities. Electing outstanding leaders not only helps Farm Credit Services of America grow in financial respects but creates a robust organization dedicated to the promotion of agriculture. I want to be a part of helping Farm Credit Services of America grow and define ag lending. Farm Credit Services of America has greatly helped me along the way of expanding my farm, and I hope to have the opportunity to share the lessons I have learned with others for a more successful future.

Rodney Lamb

Anselmo, NE

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Occupation: Farm/Ranch, Feedlot Manager
Recently married. Fifth-generation diversified family farm. We raise corn, soybeans and cattle. Our farm ground is mostly irrigated with center pivots and one quarter of underground drip tape. The majority of our corn goes to the feed yard for feed. I have a spring cowherd, am starting a fall cowherd and also run yearling steers on summer pasture. Almost all of our calves and yearlings are finished in our own feed yard. I run the day-to-day operations concerning the feed yard and pasture ground. My brother runs the farm and maintains the equipment. Our father is still very active in all facets of the operation.

Education:
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, B.S. Diversified Agriculture Sciences

Current Leadership:
Member and past President, Custer County Extension Board
Supervisor, 4-H Beef Carcass Contest
Member, Custer County Ag Society Board

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: To become more familiar with the overall concept of the Association and how things actually work. To see things differently than just typical lender/borrower experiences. My neighbor recommended me, and said he enjoyed it and thought I would, too.

Race 7

Jeremy Heitmann

Chester, NE

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Occupation: Farming and Ranching
We are primarily a row-crop operation, but we also raise alfalfa, provide custom farming and background feeder cattle. I am in business with my two brothers and we own Heitmann Farms, LLC. We also own and operate Heitmann Agronomy L.L.C., a full-service agronomy business.

Education:
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, B.S. Diversified Agriculture/Agronomy, Mechanized Systems and Agriculture Economics minors

Current Leadership:
Chairman, Byron Community Foundation
Director, Byron Lyons Club
Captain, Byron Volunteer Fire Department
Board Member, Thayer Central Community Schools

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I believe in agriculture and the role this cooperative plays. As a former Farm Credit Services of America Director and Chairman of the Board, I have unique insights regarding what qualities make a good Director. Serving on the Nominating Committee would provide the opportunity to share those insights and continue to focus on our farming businesses and family.

Lisa Schole

Hooper, NE

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Occupation: Farming and Animal Nutritionist
I am co-owner of Evolve Consulting Group. We provide product development expertise, from concept to implementation to companies focusing on the pet food market. My husband and I also farm in northeast Nebraska. We grow corn, soybeans and a small amount of wheat. We also raise pigs for a natural group called Heritage Farms.

Education:
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, B.S. Animal Science / M.S. Ruminant Nutrition

Current Leadership:
President, Dodge County Agricultural Society
Board Member, Dodge County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Board Member, Dodge County Fair Foundation
Nebraska Hunter Safety Educator
Secretary, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I would like to serve on the Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee because I believe it would be a great way to be more involved in agriculture in my community and beyond. I also believe it would be a great way to connect with others who are involved in agriculture around the Midwest. I like to play an active role in my community, and this would be another way to broaden my experience.

Race 8

Marisa Betson

Crawford, NE

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Occupation: Ranching
My husband and I run a cow-calf operation on his family's ranch. We run cows using rotational grazing and crop ground planted with grazing mixes and crop residue. I am also a local substitute teacher.

Education:
Lincoln School of Commerce, Associate degree Business Administration

Current Leadership:
Program Coordinator, TeamMates mentoring program
Member, Dawes County 4-H Council
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I would like to serve on the Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee to give back to a great organization, as well as to learn from others in the industry and to gain a better knowledge in many aspects.

Anthony Kauth

Bloomfield, NE

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Occupation: Farming
I currently operate a corn-soybean rotation farm. We also feed hogs from iso-wean to finish.

Education:
Wayne State College and Northeast Community College, Associate degree Criminal Justice

Current Leadership:
CEO of Kauth Farms

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I feel it would be an interesting learning experience. I also feel it's a way to meet new people in the industry. With the ever-changing landscape that is farming, I feel new contacts can only help young farmers.

Race 9

Jason Frerichs

Wilmot, SD

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Occupation: Farming and Ranching
Diversified farm with a beef cow-calf operation, and a grain operation raising corn, soybeans and wheat.

Education:
South Dakota State University, B.S. Agricultural Education and Speech and Animal Science minors
South Dakota Teaching, certificate
New Century Farmer, program participant

Current Leadership:
Director, United Soybean Association
Director, South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council
Director, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association Board and Chair of the Agriculture & Taxation Committee
Youth Director, Roberts County Cooperative Education
Oversight Committee, Agriculture Land Productivity
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Identifying quality leaders is important to me as we hire workers on our farm. I was able to hone that skill while serving in the legislature and teaching agriculture education. I want to continue serving on the Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee because I want to do my best to encourage others to be engaged in our cooperative. My background as a diversified crops and livestock producer allows me to relate with the various producer stockholders.

Travis Gebhart

Meadow, SD

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Occupation: Ranching
My family and I operate a cow-calf operation in northwest South Dakota. We background all of our calves and then retain ownership while finishing the calves at a custom feedlot in western Nebraska. We finish some of the yearlings and all of the open cows at home. We also have a farming operation primarily for feed production.

Education:
South Dakota State University, B.S. Range Science/Business, Ag Business, Ag Economics and Animal Science minors

Current Leadership:
Director and County President, Perkins County Farm Bureau
Director, Calvary Lutheran Church Council
President, Lemmon High School FFA/Ag Education Advisory Board

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I have been with Farm Credit Services of America since I started ranching. I absolutely believe in and love doing business with them. I have recently been asked to consider running for the Nominating Committee, one reason that accompanied this request was that I could help bring balance to the committee both in terms of commodities produced and being on the younger side of the age spectrum. A well-balanced committee will give Farm Credit Services of America better recommendations, which benefits all of us as producer-owners.

Race 10

Frank James

Webster, SD

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Occupation: Farming
My late wife and I established our first-generation grain and livestock operation in northeast South Dakota. Our two sons and their families plus an off-farm son and daughter are part of the operation.

Education:
South Dakota State University, B.S. Agricultural Engineering
U.S. Army Engineer Officer Basic Course
U.S. Army Infantry Ranger School

Current Leadership:
Commissioner, Day County South Dakota
President, B-F James & Sons, Inc.

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: The past 50-some years in agriculture have not been without hardship and sacrifice, especially for a first-generation operation. Initially, I served with the U.S. Forces in Germany and Vietnam. While farming, I served on various boards, including the local Farmers Union, Pork Producers Council and as a delegate with South Dakota Wheat Growers. Simply put, I enjoy serving. Now, as my career winds down and my sons and their families take over, I find I have more time to serve.

Wyatt Walter

Howard, SD

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Occupation: Farming and Ranching
We produce corn and soybeans, row crops, alfalfa and hay. We also have a commercial cow-calf operation where we background our cattle. I was an owner of Rock Creek Ag, an LG Seed dealer.

Education:
South Dakota State University, Associate of Science General Ag
Private Pesticide Applicator Certification
Day-to-day operations, marketing and management, Walter Farms, Inc.

Current Leadership:
Vice President, Walter Farms, Inc.
Director, local daycare board
Director, local golf course board
Director, local weed board
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I want to serve on the Nominating Committee to better understand Farm Credit Services of America and how they are helping to shape the lending needs of all ages. I believe Farm Credit Services of America plays a huge roll in the future of agriculture and I would like to gain insight in that and help bring some different views. I believe this will help make me a better businessman and give me the opportunity to hear and gain knowledge from others.

Race 11

Paul LeBrun

Dell Rapids, SD

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Occupation: Farming
We grow corn and soybeans and operate a beef feedlot on our family farm that includes my wife and our two sons and their families. We also do some tiling for ourselves and have done some tiling jobs for others. One of our sons has expanded his operation by trucking cattle for us and others.

Education:
Dell Rapids High School
Beef Quality Assurance^® Certification

Current Leadership:
Member, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association
Member, Dakota Ethanol Plant

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I am interested in promoting agriculture for my generation and for the future generations of farmers. I think it would be a good opportunity to expand my horizons and connect with others who have the same farming and ranching interests as myself. Since Farm Credit Services of America is customer owned, I have a personal interest in the success of this entity and will do my best to contribute to its future success.

Mark Mueller

Big Stone City, SD

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Occupation: Farming
I currently farm with my wife and father. We raise corn, soybeans and wheat. We use precision and variable rate technology for seeding and fertilizer. We also have a U-Pick pumpkin patch that brings people to our farm in the fall.

Education:
South Dakota State University, B.S. Agronomy

Current Leadership:
Committee Chairman, Grant County Farm Service Agency
Clerk, Alban Township Grant County

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I would like to be more active in the Farm Credit Services of America organization and be more involved with the decisions made by the cooperative. I also feel it would help further my knowledge of the lending aspect of agriculture.

Race 12

Sharleen Castle

Bosler, WY

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Occupation: Ranching
We have a centennial commercial cow-calf operation. We put up native hay for our cows, plus we bring in pasture cattle in the summer. I work at our hospital as the volunteer coordinator and gift shop manager. I am retired from First Interstate Bank in Laramie, where I held various positions, including ag lending officer, branch manager and business development officer.

Education:
University of Wyoming, B.A. Elementary Education

Current Leadership:
Treasurer, Albany County Fairgrounds Foundation Board
Treasurer, Albany County Farm Bureau
Member, Farm Credit Services of America Nominating Committee

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: It is a great opportunity to get to know ag people from other states and learn from them. Although all of our challenges are unique in agriculture, we share a passion for farming and ranching, and the desire to make a difference for future generations. I try to make a difference in all I do. I appreciate the great experiences I have had through my volunteer work and throughout my banking and ranching careers. My background involving both sides of agriculture lending makes this experience very interesting for me, and I feel will be a benefit for those utilizing the services of Farm Credit Services of America.

Randal Hruska

Fairview, WY

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Occupation: Ranching and Raising Protein
We are a ranch/farm raising Registered Salers and Guernsey cattle, Tamworth swine, Boer goats, and Royal White sheep as a seed stock producer. Our other emphasis is selling beef, dairy products, pork, kids and lambs to the general public.

Education:
Minnesota State University, B.S. Management Industrial and Labor Relations/Economics minor
Denver Archdiocese Diaconate Program, Deacon

Current Leadership:
None

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Our Farm Credit Services of America relationship has been a successful, enjoyable, meaningful and educational experience. I believe in the organization and what they are trying to accomplish for the agribusiness sector of our economy and the families that make up the Farm Credit Services of America family. I trust I can help strengthen and grow Farm Credit Services of America. I would be excited to give them my time, energy and business experience to accomplish those two goals.

John Resich

Fort Laramie, WY

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Occupation: Ranching
Operate a cow-calf operation with my daughter and also farm acres of alfalfa. In addition, I am a practicing attorney and run a large cemetery and funeral business.

Education:
Chapman University, Masters degree
Cal Poly Pomona University, B.S. Business Finance and Insurance
Santa Clara University, J.D. degree

Current Leadership:
Member, Cal Poly Pomona Foundation Board
Director, California Mortuary and Cemetery Association
Member, Cal Poly Agriculture Advisory Board

WHY I WANT TO SERVE ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: I believe that my experience in ranching and farming, the practice of law, operation of a large business, and being involved in the California Polytechnic University School of Agriculture gives me insight in business, ranching and farming operations. This, together with my financial experience in operating a large business, I believe would be an asset to the Nominating Committee.