Demeter Award of Excellence
Each year, exceptional women in agribusiness are chosen from dozens of nominations — including self-nominations — to receive the WIA Demeter Award of Excellence. Celebrated and noted for their outstanding achievements in food and agriculture, the trio are honored onstage at the annual Women in Agribusiness Summit in September.
This year, in recognition of 2026 being the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF) as designated by the United Nations, Women in Agribusiness has added a fourth award exclusively for female farmers. The American Farm Bureau Federation is collaborating with WIA on this special award segment and will help review candidates and select the recipient, as well as join the onstage award presentation at the annual Summit.
Learn more about past Demeter recipients and the contributions to the industry.
Nominations closed June 22, 2026.
Recipients of the Award must be available to attend the 2026 Women in Agribusiness Summit (September 22-24 in New Orleans) to receive their award.
Nominations for these exceptional women reflect the following criteria:
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A minimum of 10 years of experience in the agriculture and/or food industry.
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Notable professional achievements.
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An inspiring role model for other women in the industry.
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Actively dismantles barriers, fosters opportunities, and acts as a valuable resource for others.
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Demonstrates a sustained commitment to advancing other women in the industry.
2025 WIA Demeter Award of Excellence recipients:
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Leah Anderson, WinField United and Land O’Lakes, Inc. (absent from awards ceremony)
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Frances Churchill, Kansas State University (right)
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Sara Neagu-Reed, International Produce Association (left)