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Slideshow: Here’s a look at the Prairie Farmer Master Farmer Awards Luncheon, held March 17 in Springfield, Ill.

Sierra Day, Field editor

March 22, 2022

20 Slides

The 2022 Prairie Farmer Master Farmer Awards Luncheon occurred in a normal, pre-pandemic fashion on March 17 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield, Ill.

After the 2020 Master Farmers luncheon was canceled due to the pandemic, a combined 2020 and 2021 awards program was held during the 2021 Farm Progress Show in Decatur. But this year, the awards luncheon went back to normal — past Master Farmers, friends and family gathered in Springfield in March to recognize four exceptional farmers right ahead of planting season.

Lunch was provided, Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello was the keynote speaker, and attendees were able to congratulate the Master Farmers, catch up, and make new connections.

Find more details about the 2022 Master Farmers and how to nominate a 2023 Master Farmer online. Take a look at some moments captured during this year’s awards program.

About the Author(s)

Sierra Day

Field editor, Farm Progress

A 10th-generation agriculturist, Sierra Day grew up alongside the Angus cattle, corn and soybeans on her family’s operation in Cerro Gordo, Ill. Although she spent an equal amount in farm machinery as she did in the cattle barn as a child, Day developed a bigger passion for the cattle side of the things.

An active member of organizations such as 4-H, FFA and the National Junior Angus Association, she was able to show Angus cattle on the local, state and national levels while participating in contests and leadership opportunities that were presented through these programs.

As Day got older, she began to understand the importance of transitioning from a member to a mentor for other youth in the industry. Thus, her professional and career focus is centered around educating agriculture producers and youth to aid in prospering the agriculture industry.

In 2018, she received her associate degree from Lake Land College, where her time was spent as an active member in clubs such as Ag Transfer club and PAS. A December 2020 graduate of Kansas State University in Animal Sciences & Industry and Agricultural Communications & Journalism, Day was active in Block & Bridle and Agriculture Communicators of Tomorrow, while also serving as a communications student worker in the animal science department.

Day currently resides back home where she owns and operates Day Cattle Farm with her younger brother, Chayton. The duo strives to raise functional cattle that are show ring quality and a solid foundation for building anyone’s herd.

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