Key Takeaways
- Leah Anderson, Frances Churchill, and Sara Neagu-Reed named 2025 Women in Agribusiness Demeter Award recipients
- The award recognizes contributions to agribusiness, leadership, and industry inclusion
- Winners will be recognized at the 2025 Women in Agribusiness Summit in Orlando
- Over 35 nominations were submitted for this year’s awards
- Honorees represent diverse sectors: corporate leadership, academia, and policy advocacy
Women in Agribusiness Announces 2025 Demeter Award Recipients
Three professionals have been selected for the 2025 Women in Agribusiness (WIA) Demeter Award of Excellence, an annual recognition now in its 13th year. This year’s recipients are Leah Anderson of WinField United and Land O’Lakes, Inc.; Frances Churchill of Kansas State University; and Sara Neagu-Reed of the International Fresh Produce Association.
The award highlights individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the agribusiness sector and have served as role models through mentorship, innovation, and industry impact.
“These women are notable for being inspiring role models and valuable resources to others, as well as exemplifying professionalism and actively dismantling barriers and fostering opportunities,” the organization stated in its announcement.
Leah Anderson: Data-Driven Innovation in Crop Inputs
Leah Anderson, Senior Vice President at Land O’Lakes, Inc. and President of WinField United, was selected for her leadership in using data and technology to guide innovation in agriculture. Under her direction, WinField United processes over 6 million data points annually to support product development and provide field-level insights to growers.
In 2024, she was recognized by Fortune as one of the Most Powerful Rising Executives in the Fortune 500. She also serves on the boards of GreenPoint Ag and CropLife America, and contributes to initiatives supporting students and local communities.
“Leah is a leader that finds purpose and puts her whole self into her work,” said Glenda Gehl, Vice President of Agribusiness R&D and Innovation at Land O’Lakes. “[She] is driving outsized impact by enabling long-term resiliency and success for retailers and growers with cutting-edge agronomic research, product development and insights generation.”
Frances Churchill: Pioneering Inclusion in Milling Science
Frances Churchill, Professor of Practice at Kansas State University, has spent decades in the grain and milling sectors, with experience at ConAgra, General Mills, and others before transitioning to academia in 2012. She became the first woman elected president of the International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM) in its 125-year history and leads the IAOM Women in Milling Roundtable.
“Fran’s empathy, transparency, and approachability make her a powerful role model for both women and men across the agribusiness sector,” said Melinda Farris, CEO of IAOM. “She brings a rare combination of deep technical skill, people-centered leadership, and a genuine passion for helping others thrive.”
Churchill is recognized for her work in building inclusive communities, advancing education, and strengthening partnerships across the milling industry.
Sara Neagu-Reed: Policy Advocacy and Organic Reform
Sara Neagu-Reed, Director of Production and Environmental Policy at the International Fresh Produce Association, has been recognized for her contributions to federal agricultural policy and advocacy on behalf of organic and specialty crop producers.
She played a key role in reforms to the National Organic Program and helped introduce a marker bill in the Farm Bill aimed at expanding grower engagement and funding for organic agriculture.
“Sara has emerged as one of the most effective and visionary leaders in the agribusiness sector,” said Elaine Trevino of Sunkist Growers. “Through her strategic leadership, tireless advocacy, and inclusive policy development, Sara has advanced the interests of fresh produce growers across the country—particularly those committed to organic and sustainable farming.”
Colleagues describe Neagu-Reed as a mentor and trusted advisor known for guiding farmer coalitions, navigating regulatory challenges, and fostering collaboration in policy environments.
Recognition at the Women in Agribusiness Summit
The 2025 Women in Agribusiness Summit, to be held September 22–24 at the Hyatt Regency in Orlando, Florida, will serve as the platform to recognize this year’s Demeter Award recipients. The honorees will be invited on stage to receive their awards and speak to the audience of nearly 1,000 industry professionals.
The WIA Demeter Award of Excellence continues to highlight individual contributions while promoting visibility, leadership, and inclusion in agribusiness.
See the full agenda here.
