Contact: Tommy Enright, 715-563-2169 or [email protected]

WISCONSIN DELLS, WI – Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) celebrated the dedication and achievements of its members, rural allies, and emerging youth leaders during the 94th Annual Wisconsin Farmers Union State Convention, held December 13-15 at Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells. The event brought together more than 200 farmers and advocates for a weekend of networking, educational workshops, and grassroots policymaking.

During the convention, WFU presented several prestigious awards to honor individuals, chapters, and youth leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the organization, agriculture, and rural communities across the state.

Chapter Leadership Awards
The National Farmers Union Leadership Award was presented to the following WFU chapters for their excellence in community engagement, member growth, and organizational activity:

●      Dane

●      Dodge-Fond du Lac-Sheboygan-Ozaukee

●      Jackson-Trempealeau

●      St. Croix

●      Sauk

●      South Central

●      Vernon Crawford

These chapters will also be recognized at the 2025 National Farmers Union Convention.

Builder’s Award
The Builder’s Award was presented to Les Danielson of Cadott, WI. A dedicated farmer and community leader, Les operates a diversified farm with his wife, Debora, and has served on numerous boards and committees, both at WFU and in various cooperatives.

Emerging Leader Awards
WFU recognized three recipients for their innovative leadership and energy in advancing the organization’s mission:

●      Ryan Erisman, Sun Prairie, WI – Founder of Odyssey Farm and a Marine Corps veteran, Ryan demonstrates a deep commitment to regenerative farming practices and advocacy for reforms to address agricultural issues on the state and national level.

●      Sam Odin, Oak Creek, WI – Co-owner of Village Farmstead and founding member of the WFU Milwaukee-Waukesha Chapter, Sam is a passionate advocate for sustainable farming and community building.

●      Pa Thao, Eau Claire, WI – Founder of Maiv Flower Farm and a leader in equity and inclusion initiatives, Pa has empowered underrepresented voices in agriculture through her advocacy and community work.

Friend of the Family Farmer Awards
The Friend of the Family Farmer Award was presented to two exceptional leaders:

●      Randy Romanski, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, for his dedication to public service and his ability to navigate complex challenges, leaving a lasting impact on Wisconsin’s agricultural landscape.

●      Zach Ducheneaux, Administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency, for his commitment to improving agricultural policy and accessibility for farmers and ranchers nationwide.

These awardees were nominated by WFU members and selected by the Wisconsin Farmers Union Board.

Youth Awards
WFU’s commitment to fostering leadership among young people was highlighted with the recognition of the 2024 Senior Youth Advisory Council (SYAC) and Torchbearers.

The Senior Youth Advisory Council is an integral part of WFU’s youth programming, enabling young leaders to shape the educational themes of Farmers Union Youth Camps and events. This year’s SYAC honorees are:

●      Cecilia Kinney (St. Croix)

●      Charles Breitenmoser (Marathon)

●      Laura Wegerer (Taylor-Price)

●      Shaelyn Hebert (Eau Claire)

●      Xander Halvorson (Pepin-Pierce)

The Torchbearer Award, WFU’s highest youth honor, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their communities and the organization while completing significant milestones in WFU’s Youth Program. This year’s Torchbearers are:

●      Lindsey Klapatauskas (Taylor-Price)

●      Owen Roth (South-Central)

“Each of these individuals, chapters, and youth leaders embodies the spirit of the Wisconsin Farmers Union,” said WFU President Darin Von Ruden. “Their contributions inspire us to continue fighting for the future of family farms and rural communities.”

For more information about award nominations and Wisconsin Farmers Union’s ongoing efforts, visit www.wisconsinfarmersunion.com.