Indiana Farm Bureau hosts ‘Seeds of Inspiration’ event for women in the ag industry

MARION, Ind. — Indiana Farm Bureau welcomed women in the agriculture sector to the “Seeds of Inspiration” program at Ivy Tech Conference Center in Marion.

Members participated in team-building activities to foster growth and development, as well as practiced telling their unique, individual story in the ag industry.

Guest speakers included Indiana State Auditor Tera Klutz and INFB Second Vice President Isabella Chism, who both spoke about their personal backgrounds and how to pursue goals without bias or barriers.

Chism, who also is the chair of the INFB Women’s Leadership Committee, concluded with her thoughts on the important role female leaders play and how to get involved.

“It is critical that women feel empowered to tell their story,” she said. “Everyone’s background and experiences are unique. We all bring so much to the table.

“When we take the time to invest in ourselves and collaborate with others, we can accomplish a lot as a team and grow as leaders.”

The program was offered to female members in INFB’s Districts 4 and 6, which include Adams, Blackford, Delaware, Grant, Hamilton, Hancock, Henry, Howard, Huntington, Jay, Madison, Marion, Miami, Randolph, Tipton, Wabash, Wayne and Wells counties.

“Seeds of Inspiration” was organized by District 4 and 6 Education and Outreach coordinators Janis Highley and Amber Rushton in order to create a space for female members to build trust, as well as encourage communication and collaboration.

Highley and Rushton are members of INFB Women’s Leadership Committee where they work to educate the public through programs and events that promote a positive image of agriculture.