By Andi Anderson
Tim Thompson, a farmer from Franklin, Illinois, has been elected chairman of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board (ICMB) for the 2025–2026 term. Thompson, who grows corn and soybeans in Morgan County with his wife, Tami, was chosen by his peers to lead the state’s corn checkoff program.
Thompson and his family have deep ties to farming, raising their two children, Timothy Jr. and Marleigh, and welcoming a foreign exchange student into their home. On his farm, he uses minimal- and no-till practices to promote soil health and long-term sustainability.
In addition to farming, Thompson serves as Regional Sales Manager for Valent USA in the Northeast. Away from work, he enjoys training Labrador Retrievers, competing in American Kennel Club Field Trials, and spending time hunting and fishing.
Other officer positions elected include Matt Raben of Carmi as vice-chairman, Terry Smith of Clayton as treasurer, and Dan Meyer of Tuscola as secretary. Together, these farmer leaders direct investments of Illinois corn checkoff dollars into research, market development, and public outreach.
The Illinois Corn Marketing Board, established in 1982, manages the voluntary corn checkoff program that growers approved to strengthen their industry.
Board members, elected by their peers, serve unpaid three-year terms. Their work focuses on building demand, creating new markets, and increasing consumer and policymaker understanding of corn farming and its economic impact.
Thompson will now guide the board’s efforts as Illinois continues to rely on corn as its highest valued agricultural commodity.
Photo Credit: illinois-corn-growers-association
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn