WIA annually recognizes three Indiana women who are leaders and innovators in their fields and have contributed to the success of Indiana’s agricultural industry. Nominees for the annual awards are considered in three categories: leadership, achievement and emerging women in agriculture. The Emerging Women in Agriculture Leadership Award specifically honors high school and undergraduate college students.
This year’s winners will be recognized at the Indiana State Fair.
Jenna Nees, WIA awards co-chair and Extension agriculture and natural resources educator, Putnam County, says, “We are excited to continue our tradition of highlighting the many accomplishments that women have made to the agriculture field in Indiana. These awards are given to individuals who harness their skills, abilities and strengths to instill a passion for agriculture in others, making a lasting impact.”
Interested applicants can nominate themselves or be nominated by someone else. Eligibility information can be found online. To apply, submit a completed nomination form with two letters of support to Beth Vansickle, WIA awards co-chair and Extension educator, at bleonhar@purdue.edu or 765-641-9514.
Applications and letters of support must be received by May 1.
Angie Abbott (left), director of Purdue Extension and interim associate dean of the College of Agriculture, presents Kassidy Oliger with the 2023 Emerging Women in Agriculture Leadership Award. The Women in Agriculture (WIA) team annually recognizes three women who have contributed to the success of Indiana’s agricultural industry. Nominees are placed in one of three categories: leadership, achievement or emerging women in agriculture. (Photo courtesy of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture) 
The Women in Agriculture (WIA) team in Purdue University Extension is seeking nominees for the 2024 Purdue Women in Agriculture Awards. Last year, Angie Abbott (left), director of Purdue Extension and interim associate dean of the College of Agriculture, presented Bethany Gremel with the 2023 Purdue Women in Agriculture Achievement Award. (Photo courtesy of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture)