Forward TogetHER Conference set to empower and connect
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By Progressive Dairy Editor Audrey Schmitz
The Dairy Girl Network (DGN) is excited to announce their Forward TogetHER 2024 conference set to take place in Independence, Mo. on November 5-7, 2024. This conference focuses on personal and professional development to help women learn, lead and succeed in their daily journey on the farm, at home and throughout our industry.
For members of the Agricultural Business Council, the Forward TogetHER conference is right in your backyard, making it a convenient and valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders and peers without having to travel far. Conference sponsors and Ag Business Council members include Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and Merck Animal Health.
A highlight of the conference will be its lineup of over 25 dynamic speakers, covering topics ranging from sustainability, people management, technology, milk markets, technical herd topics, leadership and more.
One of this year’s conference presenters is keynote opening speaker Jackie Klippenstein, senior vice president and chief government and industry relations officer for DFA and Ag Business Council board member. Another presenter leading a dairy policy breakout session is Mary Knigge, vice president of government relations at DFA.
“I love this conference! I always learn so much, but more importantly, I get to connect with amazing leaders, celebrate their success and deepen my knowledge of the industry,” says Jackie Klippenstein.
During the conference dinner keynote speaker Brandi Buzzard, owner of High Bar Cattle Company located in Greeley, Kansas, will share her experiences standing up for agriculture by engaging global food companies, the press, policy makers and more, while using trust as a driving force. She will challenge conference attendees to follow her lead in advocating for agriculture by building trust and actively engaging with key stakeholders in the industry.
"The Forward TogetHER Conference will energize attendees to think about the issues affecting the industry and how they can play a role in leading it forward over the coming years,” Brandi Buzzard says.
A key aspect of the conference is its focus on building a supportive network. Forward TogetHER provides a space where women can come together, share their challenges, and celebrate their successes in a supportive environment. This sense of community is one of the most powerful aspects of the event, offering attendees the chance to build lasting relationships with like-minded women who understand the unique challenges of the agriculture industry.
“The DGN conference brings together women in all stages of their career - current and future leaders - who are successfully navigating complex fields and driving change,” Klippenstein says.
Ultimately, the Forward TogetHER conference is a celebration of the women who are making a difference in the dairy industry and is a recognition of their hard work, dedication and resilience. As the agriculture industry continues to evolve, events like this are crucial in ensuring that women are supported, empowered and given the opportunities they deserve. The 2024 conference promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience for all who attend, strengthening the industry as a whole.
To learn more about the conference, go to DairyGirlNetwork.com and click on National Conference. Both in-person and virtual registrations are available. If you or your business is interested in being involved with the conference or Dairy Girl Network, email Amanda Borkowski at amandab@dairygirlnetwork.com and be sure to share this exciting opportunity with your dairy industry contacts.