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

Student Presentations

Target Audiences 2024

Senate House Ag Committee

Non-ag Focused Journalists

Human Nutritionists - Dietitians-

Ag Company Research VPs

High School Students

Producers and Farm Workers

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 2024

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 StatesAuburn 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

Seminar Speakers

David Spadaro: Science Communication with the World-wide Web
David Rosero: Science Communication in a Business Call
Lydia Whitman: Communicating With Governing Bodies.
Rhea Waldman: The Art of Science Communication
Flora Litchman: Tips from a Science Journalist
Maristela Rovai: Science Communication in Extension Settings
Communicating with consumers: if they’d just listen!