By Cyndie Shearing
With women making up more than one-third of U.S. farmers and ranchers – and that number growing every year – there’s no reason those numbers should not also be rising in ag leadership positions as well. That’s according to Morgan Norris, a Florida native who completed a one-year term as chair of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee in mid-March.
“The numbers show that we are no longer on the sidelines,” Norris says. “I encourage all women involved in agriculture to step up and seek leadership positions that interest them. We deserve the same seat at the table as any other farmer or rancher.” Further, in her experience, “If you are willing to step up and speak out on issues affecting you and topics you are passionate about, and take on the projects you can lead well, you will be recognized and respected as a leader.”