Rice Leaders Recognized at Women in Agribusiness Summit in New Orleans

By Michael Klein

USA Rice

More than 650 agribusiness professionals from 41 states and 13 countries attended the 2026 Women in Agribusiness Summit here last week and U.S. rice was proudly represented.

Amongst the more than 60 speakers and multiple panels over the four days, was Louisiana rice farmer Julie Richard who participated in the “Female Farmers & Producers Panel.” Richard joined soybean farmers and cattle ranchers to share firsthand perspectives on generational transition, access to capital and technology, utilization of that technology, what leadership looks like from the field, and other topics.

“It was important for the audience of predominantly agribusiness folks to hear what we’re facing on the farm,” said Richard. “It’s worth noting the similarities across the commodities - whether it was about rising health care costs, mental health pressures, market fluctuations, running payroll, dealing with sick kids, or one of the latest pressures we’re seeing – the influx of new residents to our communities who do not understand what rural ag is all about – we are living with these challenges every day, are not able to separate farm from family, and are going to see pretty big changes in production agriculture over the next five or ten years.” 

Additionally, WIA debuted Leadership Awards this year with 13 winners across six categories, chosen by an independent panel for measurable outcomes and impact beyond their organizations. 

Meryl Kennedy, CEO of Kennedy Rice Mill was one of five winners of the Executive Leadership Award. The category honors C-suite leaders with at least five years in the role and measurable impact on agriculture. Also recognized were Sarah Beth Aubrey of consulting firm The Envoy Group; Marji Guyler-Alaniz of crop insurance provider AgriSompo; Christy Seyfert, CEO of the Farm Credit Council; and Sara Wyant, founder and publisher of Agri-Pulse Communications.

"These women represent the very best of talent and accomplishment in agriculture, and we're thrilled to celebrate their achievements alongside peers and hundreds of others from across the ag value chain,” said Svitlana Synkovska, WIA portfolio director.

The 2027 Women in Agribusiness Summit will take place in Minneapolis, September 8-10.