By Cyndie Shearing
Women have helped shape American agriculture since its earliest days, although sometimes with little recognition. Today, about one-third of farmers and ranchers are women, and their influence and leadership are coming into sharper focus. A look at women whose contributions significantly shaped agriculture – trailblazers at the national, state or local level – is illuminating.
We asked some current women leaders in Farm Bureau who stands out to them as blazing the trail for women in ag.
On the national level, two women were cited for serving as secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the federal agency that develops and implements policies on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development and nutrition.
Ann Veneman was the first woman to lead USDA, from 2001-2005. Her legacy focuses on food safety, nutrition programs and efforts to support global security. Brooke Rollins is the second woman to hold the position. She was confirmed by the Senate in 2025. Rollins took over leadership of USDA at a critical time for farmers and ranchers, as they faced economic headwinds, labor challenges and uncertainty over how policy changes might affect rural America. She is known for her commitment to connecting directly with farmers and ranchers, with the aim of better understanding and addressing their challenges.
Beyond policy, women have also played a role in the evolution of common agricultural practices used across the nation.
Click here to see more...