By Andi Anderson

Illinois Farm Bureau members and ag industry leaders gathered at the Palmer House in Chicago for the 2023 IFB Annual Meeting, taking part in a week filled with policy discussions, networking opportunities, and celebratory events. Highlights of the 2023 IFB Annual Meeting:

• Passing the Torch: Richard Guebert Jr. concluded his decade-long term as president, expressing both bittersweet emotions and optimism for the future.
• New Leadership: Brian Duncan of Polo, Ill., and Evan Hultine from Princeton, Ill., were elected as the organization's 16th president and vice president, respectively.
• Embracing Change: Guebert emphasized the need for IFB to adapt to a changing agricultural landscape and position itself for the future.
• Top Priorities: Securing a farm bill and preventing government overregulation were identified as key priorities for the organization.
• Building Relationships: Guebert underscored the importance of maintaining strong relationships with policymakers in Springfield and Washington, D.C.
• A Voice for Agriculture: IFB's commitment to representing the interests of Illinois farmers and agribusinesses was reaffirmed as crucial for navigating the current political climate.

The 2023 IFB Annual Meeting served as a vital platform for members to connect, share insights, and collectively chart a course for the future of Illinois agriculture.

Photo Credit: illinois-farm-bureau