The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has announced that former director of administration, Leanna Nail, has been inducted into the AFIA Liquid Feed Hall of Fame. The announcement was made by Paul Davis, Ph.D., AFIA’s director of quality, animal food safety, and education, during the organization's Liquid Feed Symposium held this week in Salt Lake City.
"For more than 15 years, Leanna poured her heart and soul into supporting the liquid feed industry through her impeccable work with our committee and symposium," said Davis. "This award is well placed and well deserved."
The annual Liquid Feed Hall of Fame award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their careers to the advancement of the liquid feed industry. Nail becomes the 25th inductee since the award's inception.
"Leanna Nail's selection as the award winner is a testament to her unwavering dedication and significant impact on the liquid feed industry," said Sarah Novak, AFIA’s chief operating officer. "Over her 17-year tenure as the AFIA staff liaison for the Liquid Feed Committee, Leanna played a pivotal role in shaping the sector by organizing key annual symposiums. Her leadership not only advanced the committee's objectives but also laid the foundation for long-term success, including the establishment of the Liquid Feed Hall of Fame itself. Her deep commitment and contributions have left a lasting impact on the industry."
Nail joined the AFIA in 2000 as a project expediter and quickly became integral to the AFIA Liquid Feed Committee. Her responsibilities included managing the committee's daily operations, organizing the annual symposium, and overseeing the annual tonnage survey, among other tasks.
Before retiring in 2017, Nail achieved significant milestones for the liquid feed industry. She was instrumental in establishing the Liquid Feed Hall of Fame and worked closely with the committee to initiate regular training sessions with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials. These efforts provided FDA officials with a better understanding of the industry and enhanced regulatory engagement through formal comments submitted to the agency.
Although she did not come from a farming background, Nail immersed herself in the industry, becoming knowledgeable and taking pride in the program's expansion and success. Her dedication and adaptability significantly contributed to the development of the liquid feed sector within the AFIA.
The AFIA Liquid Feed Symposium is an annual event that brings together industry professionals to discuss the latest innovations and challenges in the liquid feed sector. Nail's induction was a highlight of this year's symposium, celebrating her long-standing commitment and contributions to the industry.
