At IL Corn Growers Association, our strength comes from members who not only grow corn, but grow leadership, innovation, and community. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Ellen Rahn — a dedicated farmer, business owner, mom, and longtime ICGA leader whose passion for agriculture shines through every acre she touches. From raising cattle to supporting farmers across multiple counties, Ellen brings a grounded perspective and a genuine commitment to moving Illinois agriculture forward.
Q&A With Ellen
Tell us a little about your farm
From our farm in Mt. Carroll, Illinois, we grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and cover crops, while also running a cow/calf and feedlot operation. On top of that, we manage a custom cover crop business, R&H Seed Solutions, and I work as a Channel SeedPro, helping farmers throughout Ogle, Carroll, Whiteside, and Lee Counties. My favorite part of the farm? Hands down, watching the newborn calves explore the pasture — it’s peaceful, a little chaotic, and a perfect reminder of the new opportunities every season brings.
What’s something on the farm that always makes you laugh or reminds you why you love what you do?
I love watching our son explore and learn about farm life. He’s always eager to lend a helping hand, especially with chores. Seeing his face light up when the combine pulls in or when a new calf makes a funny sound is what makes me love what we do even more. Seeing the world through his eyes puts everything into perspective.
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 Illinois 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.
