Nominations are open for the Women in Agribusiness (WIA) Demeter Award of Excellence, an annual honor celebrating outstanding women with at least 10 years of experience across the agricultural value chain, from farm to fork. The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, June 20.
Award recipients will be recognized at the 2025 Women in Agribusiness Summit, taking place Sept. 22-24 in Orlando, Florida. The Demeter Award aims to honor women who have demonstrated notable professional achievements and serve as inspiring figures within the industry.
Nominees for the WIA Demeter Award of Excellence must meet the following criteria:
- Have a minimum of 10 years of experience in the agriculture and/or food industry.
- Exhibit notable professional achievements.
- Be an inspiring role model for other women in the industry.
- Actively dismantle barriers, foster opportunities, and act as a valuable resource for others.
- Consistently exemplify professionalism.
Self-nominations are welcome, and there is no limit to the number of entries. Submissions must include detailed examples of the nominee’s positive impact on their company, colleagues, clients, or the agribusiness sector as a whole. Nominations can be submitted through the Women in Agribusiness website.
Past WIA Demeter Award recipients have been recognized for contributions such as:
- Playing a critical role in creating an inclusive and dynamic corporate culture.
- Introducing underserved youth to careers in agriscience and being instrumental in negotiating a $9.4 million grant for 4-H from the USDA.
- Growing event attendance significantly through strategic outreach.
- Navigating complex agricultural policies and bridging the gap between farmers and policymakers.
- Inspiring colleagues through dedication and fostering an environment of continuous learning regarding agricultural trends and technologies.
