As part of the Pride in Agriculture series, today we'll hear from Matthew Winterholler (he/him), who lives in La Salle, Colorado. Matthew and I are former co-workers at an industry organization where we worked together on several agriculture communications projects. You can connect with Matthew on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. How are you involved in … Continue reading Agriculture Communications, Matthew Winterholler | Pride in Agriculture
Leading in Animal Agriculture, JJ Jones | Pride in Agriculture
As part of the Pride in Agriculture series, today we'll hear from JJ Jones (he/him), who lives in Council Grove, Kansas. JJ has been a mentor to many through his work as a leader in agriculture. This year, I've had the opportunity to begin working with JJ as he leads the National Institute for Animal … Continue reading Leading in Animal Agriculture, JJ Jones | Pride in Agriculture
Pride in Agriculture | Conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in rural America
Agriculture and rural America are communities filled with diverse people, voices, and cultures who work hard to produce food, fiber, and, fuel products. My blogging efforts kicked off in 2010 by featuring the voices of people in these communities who are proud of their roles in agriculture. Today, I want to kick off a different … Continue reading Pride in Agriculture | Conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in rural America
Culture and Inclusion are not just words on paper
"A culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a goal to be met by just words on paper, but it's the actions that we take. When we're talking about the culture of an organization, how do employees interact? How do leaders set the tone for the conversations that are taking place?" Those are words … Continue reading Culture and Inclusion are not just words on paper
Diversity and Inclusion – will Ag brush it off?
Does agriculture have a problem with diversity and inclusion? Is this something the community is willing to admit and work on? Or will some in the industry try to brush this off as well? In the weeks after I first shared my experiences challenging diversity and inclusion in the workplace, I've received an overwhelming amount … Continue reading Diversity and Inclusion – will Ag brush it off?
Omitting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
To follow-up on the previous post where I shared my experiences and challenges of organizational culture, diversity and inclusion, today I'd like to share the perspective of a former colleague. This person has requested to remain anonymous, but their voice is important to describe the culture at the organization that led to the departure of … Continue reading Omitting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
A word on organizational culture, diversity and inclusion
This year has proven to be challenging. I have been presented with opportunities to stand up for the ethics and values I have been taught my entire life. Our communities - whether those be defined by race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or a rural-urban divide - are often passionate about our deeply rooted beliefs, which … Continue reading A word on organizational culture, diversity and inclusion
My LGBTQ Coming Out Story | Pride in Agriculture
It took some time. But really, it’s still taking time. Every time I hear of someone’s LGBTQ coming out, it makes me realize that maybe other people might feel like this, too. Growing up in rural America, in the heart of the bible belt, It was always taught that being gay was a sin, morally … Continue reading My LGBTQ Coming Out Story | Pride in Agriculture
Perspectives Divide and Offer Opportunity for Growth
Growing up in Arkansas, the cattle business was fairly lax when it came to politics, environmental concerns, and general camaraderie of the industry. Moving to Montana has given me a few new perspectives on things. Earlier this month, I traveled to San Antonio for work at the annual Cattle Industry Convention. This was their largest … Continue reading Perspectives Divide and Offer Opportunity for Growth
Thankful for Agriculture – Thanksgiving 2011
I was in the milking parlor at 4 this morning, taking care of all the cows, cleaning udders, and attaching the milkers when the boss said I caught on to the milking routine quickly. My response? “Ok, I’ll slow down.” I have no problem starting my day at 3 a.m. but those early starts make … Continue reading Thankful for Agriculture – Thanksgiving 2011