Networking

Leading Voices in Ag Communication: 2024 Conference Industry Guests Lineup

Welcome to the Communication Training Conference, where we’re bringing in the heavy hitters of the industry! We’re beyond excited to introduce you to the movers and shakers who will be attending our event. These professionals are the real deal, leading the way in their fields, and they’re here to share their knowledge and tricks of the trade. Get ready to be inspired, learn, and have a blast with us as we explore the world of effective communication!

Larry Tidemann
Former Member of the South Dakota State Senate.

Dillon Davidson
Senior Trade Officer – Nevada Department of Agriculture

Stephanie Myers G.
Vice President of Government affairs – Capital 6 Advisors

Rhea Waldman
Executive Director
SD Discovery Center

Jim Dunn
Consulting nutritionist
Cornerstone Ag Management

Dave Heilig
CEO
Zymetrics

Ann Hess
Content Producer at National Hog Farmers

Janelle Atyeo
Regional Editor at Lee AgriMedia

Lee Johnston
Professor
University of Minnesota

Sarah Tveidt
VP, Client Services at Aimpoint Research

Candy DeOuden
Extension Marketing and Communications Coordinator at SDSU

Dr. Marni Shoemaker
Assistant Professor and Registered Dietitian School of Health and Consumer Services

Dr. Carol Cardona
Professor at University of Minnesota

Emily Caban
Army Combat Medic and Nurse at Plasma Center Brookings

Nathan Augspurger
Vice President Developer at Biomedit

Magdiel Lopez
Swine Field Specialist at University of Missouri

Ximena Paz
Data Scientist and Analyst at The Hanor Company

Jeffrey Escobar
Director of Clinical Studies at Mazen Animal Health

Dr. Michelle M. Kromm
Principal at Food Forward, LLC

Dr. Amanda Blair
Assistant Director of West River Agricultural Center/Professor

Terry Wicks
Product Specialist at Devenish Nutrition

Ethan Bloom
Beef Technical Specialist at Purina Mills

Jake koepke
Nutritionist at Pipestone

Kyle Gustafson
Assistant Manager at SD Crop Association

Mark Gieseman
Swine Technical Manager at ADISSEO USA INC

Marvin Escorcia
Talent Acquisition Manager at Smithfield Foods

Michael Crinion
CEO at Ash Grove Dairy

Robert Thaler
Distinguished Professor and SDSU Extension Swine Specialist

David Anderson
Representative at  South Dakota House of Representatives

Jean Hunhoff
South Dakota Senator

Round Tables

Case of Studies: Topics Conference 2024

We’ve got some exciting round table sessions lined up for our participants this year. These sessions will feature real-life case studies on a variety of topics, from gene editing use to the latest in global trade policies for agriculture. It’s your chance to dive into some practical, hands-on discussions with industry leaders

Trade Policies

Case Study: Trade Policy and Food Security: In this case study, we discuss the impacts of trade agreements, regulatory shifts, and emerging markets on agriculture and food systems.

Climate-Smart Agriculture

Case Study: Climate-Smart Agriculture: Innovative practices that help farmers adapt to climate change, reduce emissions, and improve resilience. Learn from experts and engage in this discussion on sustainable farming strategies that are shaping the future of agriculture.

Avian Influenza

Case Study: Avian Influenza: The ongoing threat of avian influenza outbreaks and the impact on poultry and dairy production. We’ll explore strategies to prevent and manage the spread of avian influenza, assess its impact on food systems, and discuss measures to protect livestock and ensure food security.

Employee Retention

Case Study: Strategies for Employee Retention: Explore effective strategies for keeping top talent. Learn from HR professionals and industry leaders as they share insights on building a positive workplace culture, improving employee satisfaction, and reducing turnover.

Genetics/Repro

Case Study: Advanced Genetic Selection Tools – Ensuring Safety in Gene Editing: Let’s dive into a critical case study: the safety and reliability of gene editing in genetics, reproduction and product development. This case underscores the imperative of ensuring the responsible use of advanced genetic technologies.

Activists

Case Study: Activists – Stirring Active and ‘Hostile’ Discussions: This case study highlights the fine balance between passionate advocacy and effective communication. It reminds us that while sparking debate is essential for change, it’s crucial to foster constructive, respectful dialogues to achieve common goals.

Communication Workshop

Communication Workshop: Enhancing Your Presentation Skills: In this workshop, we’ll help you review and refine crucial details to ensure your presentation is impactful. From content structure to delivery techniques, we’ll cover it all.

Seminar Series 2025

This year’s seminar series brought together a diverse group of experts to share practical strategies and real-world insights on communicating science agriculture beyond academia. From engaging policymakers and industry leaders to connecting with consumers, farm workers, and the media, each session offered valuable tools to bridge the gap between research and non-scientific audiences. The recordings below capture these conversations, providing an ongoing resource for anyone looking to strengthen their communication skills and broaden the impact of their work. 

Don’t miss any details. These insights will help you prepare for your Conference presentation. Check them out!!!

Seminar Speakers

Dr. Michael Kantar: Science Communication
Dr. Rhea Waldman: Communicating Science to K-12 Educators and Students
Natasha Mortenson: Communicating Science to Producers & Consumers
Blythe Terrell: Communicating Science to Journalists & Media
Stephanie Gadbois: Communicating Science to Policy Makers
Dr. Márcio Gonçalves: Communicating Science through Podcasting
Dr. Jorge Estrada: Communicating Science to Business Leaders