Women’s Ag Leadership Conference

Network with agricultural leaders at the 28th annual Women’s Agricultural Leadership Conference (WALC) on Tuesday, March 31 at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This year’s WALC theme, “Local Leadership: Global Impact,” will focus on developing and uplifting women in agriculture and giving them tools to deal with an ever-changing industry.

“For many of our attendees, this is the best one-day event of the year. Our unique event brings together people from all areas of agriculture to learn, dialogue, and network,” said Doris Mold, conference co-founder. “Our program encourages connections and energizes and motivates participants to become leaders in their work and communities. We’re also excited to celebrate the declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, marking a commitment to empowering and recognizing the contributions of women in agriculture - particularly those involved in production agriculture.”

Attendees will be welcomed by Keeley Runge, Minnesota FFA Association State Reporter, and emcee DeeAnn Lufkin of CannonBelles Cheese. The general session panel, “Local Leadership: Global Impact – Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer,” will feature Lady Diana Gómez Forero of MAST International Colombia; Jodi Ohlsen Read of Shepherd’s Way Farms; Lori Stevermer of Stevermer Farms and past president of the National Pork Producers Council; and Jane Windsperger of Gedef Organic Farm.

A highlight of the conference is the recognition of 2026’s Outstanding Agriculture Mentors. This award is in its 24th year and recognizes people who have been positive mentors and role models for people in agriculture, especially women. Nominations are open until March 15.

The day also includes two breakout sessions, mini sessions focused on current topics, and a post-conference gathering at Rootstock, the Arboretum’s café, featuring the work of the Arboretum’s Culinary Lead Beth Fisher and Executive Chef Niki Heber.

Participants can choose from a variety of breakout topics including: 

• Bloom Where You’re Planted: Leading from Every Level
• Bridging Generations: Communicating Across Legacy, Leadership, and the Future of Agriculture
• Cultivating Global Markets: Navigating Export Growth in Minnesota Agriculture
• Financing the Future: Tools and Opportunities for Young and Beginning Farmers
• From the Field to the Floor: Navigating 2026 Agricultural Policy
• Intro to Marketing Tools
• Meaningful Engagement in Your Industry and Community
• Planning for Life Balance
• The Neuroscience of Stress and Coping

The conference is open to individuals with an interest in women’s agricultural leadership regardless of gender, age, or affiliation. Register by Monday, March 16 for a discounted rate.

The Women’s Agricultural Leadership Conference is made possible by Innovator Sponsorship Partner AgCountry Farm Credit Services, along with Major Sponsorship Partners including CoBank, Compeer Financial, and Farm Credit Leasing. Our Key Sponsorship Partner is Hurley & Associates. Additional sponsorship support is provided by Annie’s Project, CannonBelles Cheese, Minnesota Corn Growers Association, Minnesota Department of Agriculture Emerging Farmers Office, Minnesota Foundation for Agriculture, Minnesota Farmers Union, Minnesota Soybean Research Promotion Council, Minnesota State Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence, Prairie Farms Dairy Inc., and many other conference partners and volunteers.

For the full conference brochure and to register, visit the Women’s Agricultural Leadership Conference website.