When you’re not farming, how do you like to spend your free time?
When I’m not out on the farm, I love to spend time crafting — but my favorite moments are those spent with our son, Evan. Whether we’re swimming, swinging at the park, or exploring around the farm, every day with him feels like a new adventure and a reminder of all the opportunities that surround us.
If you could have coffee (or ride in a tractor) with anyone in ag (past or present), who would it be and why?
I would love to have a cup of coffee with George Washington Carver. I’d be fascinated to hear his perspective on conservation practices — how far we’ve come, what principles still hold true, and what he might envision for the future of soil health.
How and why did you first get involved with the IL Corn Growers Association, and what inspired you to take on a leadership role?
I got involved with ICGA because somebody has to be the voice for the people who can’t leave the farm. Most of my neighbors are busy doing what they love — planting, harvesting, raising their families — and they don’t have time to drive to Springfield or Washington, D.C. to make sure our concerns are heard. That’s where ICGA comes in. Being part of this organization means I can help make sure farmers like us have a seat at the table when decisions are made that impact our livelihoods. It’s about stepping up, using our voice, and making sure agriculture stays strong for the next generation.
From your perspective, why is it important for farmers to be ICGA members, and how does our “seat at the table” really make a difference?
Being an ICGA member is one of the simplest ways farmers can make a big impact. It doesn’t cost much, but it helps ensure we have a strong voice in Springfield, Washington, and beyond. Our membership dollars support advocacy and lobbying that protects our farms, our markets, and our way of life.
Without that seat at the table, decisions would be made without farmers in mind — and that’s a risk none of us can afford. With ICGA, we’re not just hoping for the best; we’re showing up and shaping the policies that affect our livelihoods.
Ellen’s story is a reminder of what makes Illinois agriculture exceptional: hardworking families, deep roots, and leaders who choose to show up for the future of farming. We are proud to have Ellen as an ICGA member and advocate — both on the farm and in the conversations that matter most for Illinois corn farmers.
