Illinois Farmer Bill Leigh Elected NCGA First Vice President

By Andi Anderson

Bill Leigh, a farmer from Minonk, Illinois, has been elected as the next first vice president of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). This important role places him on a path to become the organization’s president on October 1, 2027. His new term will officially begin in October, which also marks the start of NCGA’s new fiscal year.

Leigh expressed gratitude and excitement about his appointment. He said, “Being elected to this role by my peers is the honor of a lifetime,” Leigh said. “I look forward to working alongside dedicated grower leaders and staff as we advocate for issues that are critical to the success of farmers, specifically growing and expanding demand for corn. Corn grower engagement is needed now more than ever, and I am thrilled that I will be serving on the front lines of these efforts.”

Leigh brings extensive experience and deep agricultural roots to his new role. He is a sixth-generation farmer who grows corn and soybeans in Marshall County, Illinois. His farming operation is based on a family farm that has been active for over 150 years. This long-standing connection to agriculture reflects his strong understanding of farming challenges and opportunities.

Along with his farming work, Leigh has shown leadership in agricultural organizations. He served as the president of the Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) in 2020. Currently, he represents District 4 on the Illinois Corn Marketing Board (ICMB), continuing his involvement in promoting corn production and marketing efforts.

Leigh’s personal background also highlights his commitment to family and community. He attended Toluca High School and later graduated from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. He and his wife, Debbie, have two sons. Their son James works as an engineer, while Christopher returned to the family farm after serving in the United States military.

With his leadership experience and dedication to agriculture, Leigh is expected to play a key role in strengthening NCGA’s mission. His focus will remain on increasing corn demand, supporting farmers, and ensuring the growth of the agricultural sector.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-jevtic