Agriculture in the Classroom, Leadership in Agriculture Education. Agriculture in the Classroom, which is part of a nationwide network, educates Iowa pre-K through high school students about all aspects of agriculture. AITC works with about 3,000 teachers to reach nearly 150,000 Iowa students across hundreds of schools. Their important work seeks to inspire well-educated students who understand agriculture and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Central Iowa Shelter and Services, Leadership in Community. Central Iowa Shelter and Services performs an essential role in our community by providing emergency shelter, food and other services to people facing homelessness. In addition, through its “agri-hood,” CISS is finding creative ways to educate and empower individuals by teaching them valuable life skills and giving them hope, all with a focus on agriculture. By providing education, training and opportunity, CISS is changing lives.

John Mortimer, Outstanding Service in Agriculture. Nearly 40 years ago, John Mortimer had a vison for the Iowa Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters at the Iowa State Fair. He poured his time and energy into the restaurant, which quickly grew from one tent to a huge and iconic enterprise. John’s innovation, perseverance and leadership benefited many, including Iowa consumers and Iowa’s cattle farmers. As he retires from running the long-standing restaurant, John has left an indelible mark on the state fair.

John Lawrence, Outstanding Service in Agriculture. John Lawrence has held various leadership roles at Iowa State University over the past three decades. From teaching students and assisting beef producers to helping develop the Nutrient Reduction Strategy and serving as vice president for Extension and Outreach, Lawrence’s dedication to Iowa agriculture and conservation is unmatched. As he retires this spring, he will long be remembered as one of the state’s most influential agriculture and conservation leaders.