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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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: 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.
We are excited to announce the launch of our online communication seminar series! The seminars got underway last week with a great turnout of over 60 students registered from 16 universities across the United States: Auburn University, University of California, Berkeley, Cornell University, University of Georgia, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, University of Kentucky, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, The Ohio State University, Pennsylvania State University, Purdue University, South Dakota State University, Texas A&M University, and Texas Tech University.
The program is designed to help students develop the skills they need to communicate science effectively to different audiences. Students will learn about the principles of science communication, how to tailor their message to their audience, and how to use different communication tools and techniques.
We are excited to see the progress these students make over the course of the program. We are confident that they will gain the skills and knowledge they need to become effective science communicators