American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee

Women play a significant role in agriculture and in Farm Bureau. The most recent Census of Agriculture found that the number of women serving as principal operators of farms and ranches in the United States had increased over the past 20 years. In 2007, 13.9 percent of farms and ranches had female principal operators. As women take a more active role in production, they are also becoming more involved in organizations that represent farmers and ranchers.

The American Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee (AFBWLC) contributes an essential perspective to the organization and provides opportunities for women to become involved in all aspects of Farm Bureau. The AFBWLC members are elected at the AFBF Annual Meeting. In addition to the committee chair and vice chair, there are two members representing each of the four regions. The committee develops programs and materials that will empower women in Farm Bureau to strive for and attain leadership positions to strengthen the overall organization. Both the program of work and the committee budget are approved by the AFBF Board of Directors.

Engaged, Empowered & Strong is the theme for the AFB Women's Leadership Committee for 2012-2013. Following a strategic planning session, the committee members determined the theme to describe how the members feel about their role.

ENGAGED:  The American Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee provides opportunities for women to get involved in an organization that represents all of agriculture.

EMPOWERED: The American Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee empowers women to use their training and knowledge to tell their stories in authentic, dynamic ways to decision makers, lawmakers, teachers, students, and consumers.

STRONG: The American Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee helps women build on their strengths as agricultural professionals and leaders who are effective at speaking up and speaking out about agricultural and legislative issues.

Committee Members