Six Utah Farm Bureau women traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the International Year of the Woman Farmer ACE (Advocate, Cultivate, Empower) Summit, joining nearly 500 women from across the country for leadership development, advocacy training, and networking. Representing Utah were Dot Jensen, Nancy Harris, JaNae Titmus, Stacey Wangsgard, Delaney Nalder, and Jill Singelton. 

Throughout the summit, the women participated in breakout sessions covering a variety of topics, ranging from leadership and personal development to key issues such as ag labor and trade. AFBF President Zippy Duvall also addressed attendees with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the value women add to the industry that produces food, fiber, and fuel for the world. He encouraged women of all ages to advocate by sharing their own agricultural stories.

Utah ACE Summit attendees, visiting with Rep. Celeste Maloy (fourth from right)

Sessions also highlighted AFBF's Women in Agriculture Study that was released during the summit. The study provides a comprehensive look at the many hats worn by women in agriculture and identifies opportunities to better support them.

"We were never meant to be ordinary. Women have always played a key role in agriculture, and they will continue to shape its future," said Dot Jensen, chair of the Utah Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee. "As we lead and serve, I hope we'll remember that young girls are watching. The example we set today will help shape the next generation of leaders in agriculture and in our communities."

The Utah women concluded their time in Washington, D.C. by meeting with members of Utah’s congressional delegation on Capitol Hill. During visits with Senator John Curtis and Representatives Celeste Maloy, Mike Kennedy, and Burgess Owens, the group discussed issues affecting Utah agriculture and shared firsthand perspectives as women in agriculture.  

Attendees to the ACE Summit, visiting with Rep. Mike Kennedy (center)

The ACE Summit highlighted the vital role women play in feeding, clothing, and fueling the world. For the Utah women, the experience left them inspired and energized to continue advocating for farmers and ranchers in their communities and across the state.