By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) has announced the winners of its 2025 Achievement Awards, celebrating five individuals who have made meaningful contributions to agriculture and the soybean industry.
These awards honor leadership, innovation, service, and long-term commitment to helping soybean farmers and strengthening agriculture across Illinois.
ISA leadership expressed pride in this year’s recipients. “ISA is proud to honor these hardworking individuals who are leading our industry into a better future through their leadership, excellence, commitment and service,” said John Lumpe, ISA CEO. “We thank them for all of their contributions that benefit farmers and the Illinois agriculture industry as a whole.”
The ISA Chairman’s Award, the highest honor given by the organization, recognizes exceptional dedication to supporting soybean interests in the state. The 2025 recipient is Aluizio Ribeiro, Chief Executive Officer of Incobrasa Industries LTD.
Under his leadership, Incobrasa has grown since opening its soybean crushing facility in 1997, adding an oil refinery in 2004 and a biodiesel plant in 2007. Ribeiro’s decades of global business experience have strengthened the company’s position in the U.S. market while maintaining strong international connections.
The Farm Family of the Year Award goes to Doug Winter and his family. The Winters farm in White County, growing soybeans, corn, and occasional winter wheat.
Doug has served in several national leadership roles, including positions on the Illinois Soybean Board, United Soybean Board, U.S. Soybean Export Council, Center for Food Integrity Board and U.S. Farm and Ranch Alliance Board. His wife Nancy, a Certified Public Accountant, plays a key role in their farm operation.
The Friend of Illinois Soybean Farmers Award recognizes support from outside the farming community. This year’s recipient is Dr. Fred Below of the University of Illinois.
He leads the Crop Physiology Laboratory, developing research and tools such as the “Seven Wonders of The Corn Yield World” and the “Six Secrets of Soybean Success” to help farmers improve productivity.
The ISA Champion of the Year Award honors impactful policy leadership. Senator Dave Koehler received this award for his work on major agricultural issues, including sponsoring the Illinois Waterway Ports Commission Act and supporting legislation focused on estate tax relief and biodiesel incentives.
The ISA Excellence in Media Award goes to Tom Doran, Illinois AgriNews Field Editor since 2005. With over 50 years in journalism, he is recognized for his coverage of crop production, conservation, and legislative topics, and for his dedication to sharing farmers’ stories.
Photo Credit: illinois-soybean-association
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle