Young farmers and ranchers from across Kansas gathered in Manhattan from January 10-12 for the annual Kansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Leaders Conference. Nearly 500 attendees participated in the three-day event, which focused on education, networking, and professional development for growers aged 18-35.
The conference featured agricultural workshops, motivational speakers, and opportunities to connect with industry experts and peers. Notable speakers included Jordy Nelson, former K-State football star and Super Bowl XLV champion, and Dan Thomson, a feedlot veterinarian, CEO of Production Animal Consultation, and creator of “Doc Talk” on RFD-TV.
The event was organized and hosted by state committee members representing each of the 10 Kansas Farm Bureau districts. Their efforts ensured the success of the conference, which included tours, competitions, and valuable resources for young agricultural leaders.
Winners of the conference competitions include the following:
- Ag Quiz Bowl – Laine Schmalzried, Aidan Yoho, Grant Hervey and Mason Fink, Kansas State University
- Collegiate Discussion Meet – Abby Graham, Fort Hays State University
- YF&R Discussion Meet – Lindy McMillen, Lane County
- YF&R of the Year – Jacquelyne Leffler, Lyon County
Graham was awarded $500 and an expense-paid trip to the 2025 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) YF&R Leadership Conference in Denver, Colorado. McMillen and Leffler each received $700 and will represent Kansas in their respective competitions at the 2026 AFBF Annual Convention in Anaheim, California.
Destiny Johnson of Stafford County received the first-ever Rural Minds Matter Young Advocate of the Year award for her efforts in promoting resilience and well-being among farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. You can read about her work here.
