2024 MABA Outlook Conference Program
Friday, September 6, 2024
6:00 PM | Evening reception, Grand Hotel Lawn*
Presented by 2024 MABA Sustaining Sponsors
Saturday, September 7, 2024
8:30 - 11:30 AM | General Session
12:00 - 1:30 PM | Luncheon*
6:00 PM | Evening Reception, Grand Hotel Porch*
Presented by Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Dinner on your own on the Island
Sunday, September 8, 2024
8:30 AM - 11:30 AM | General Session
11:30 AM | Adjournment
*Spouses/Guests/Children Invited
Keynote Presentations
![Michael Fossum](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/3945702-6646b0cd452c2.jpg)
Col. Michael Fossum, USAF (Retired)
Vice President, Texas A&M University
COO, Texas A&M University at Galveston
Superintendent, Texas A&M Maritime Academy
Executive Professor of Maritime Administration, Texas A&M University at Galveston
Michael E. Fossum currently serves as a Vice President of Texas A&M University, the Chief Operating Officer of the Galveston Campus, and the Superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy. Fossum joined Texas A&M following his retirement from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – Johnson Space Center in 2017.
Fossum is a veteran of three space flights with more than 194 days in space and more than 48 hours in seven spacewalks during his 19 years as an astronaut. During his last mission in 2011, Fossum served as the Commander of the International Space Station. He has logged over 2,000 hours in 35 different aircraft throughout the course of his career. Fossum earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Air Force in 1980. He is also a graduate of the US Air Force Test Pilot School and has earned Master of Science degrees in Systems Engineering and Space Science.
Fossum was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and grew up in McAllen, Texas. He is married to his Aggie sweetheart, the former Melanie J. London ‘80. They have four children and eight grandchildren. He enjoys family and outdoor activities. Fossum has been a lifelong supporter and volunteer in the Scouting program.
Col. Michael Fossum, USAF (Retired)
Vice President, Texas A&M University
COO, Texas A&M University at Galveston
Superintendent, Texas A&M Maritime Academy
Executive Professor of Maritime Administration, Texas A&M University at Galveston
Michael E. Fossum currently serves as a Vice President of Texas A&M University, the Chief Operating Officer of the Galveston Campus, and the Superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy. Fossum joined Texas A&M following his retirement from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – Johnson Space Center in 2017.
Fossum is a veteran of three space flights with more than 194 days in space and more than 48 hours in seven spacewalks during his 19 years as an astronaut. During his last mission in 2011, Fossum served as the Commander of the International Space Station. He has logged over 2,000 hours in 35 different aircraft throughout the course of his career. Fossum earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Air Force in 1980. He is also a graduate of the US Air Force Test Pilot School and has earned Master of Science degrees in Systems Engineering and Space Science.
Fossum was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and grew up in McAllen, Texas. He is married to his Aggie sweetheart, the former Melanie J. London ‘80. They have four children and eight grandchildren. He enjoys family and outdoor activities. Fossum has been a lifelong supporter and volunteer in the Scouting program.
![Jon Rush](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2639189-6475fdf442af2.jpeg)
Courtney J. White
Head of Human Resources, BASF Agricultural Solutions North America
Courtney J. White is the head of human resources for BASF Agricultural Solutions North America and the company's global leader for Diversity & Inclusion. He is accountable for leading the development and implementation of strategies to engage and harness the dynamic power of people. Having worked with multiple top organizations for more than 15 years, Courtney’s career has been focused on unleashing organizational potential, enhancing innovation and driving performance-based cultures of growth on six continents. A true Tarheel, Courtney was born and raised in Durham, North Carolina; later graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In life, he is guided by the quote “If your presence doesn’t make an impact, then your absence won’t make a difference.”
Courtney J. White
Head of Human Resources, BASF Agricultural Solutions North America
Courtney J. White is the head of human resources for BASF Agricultural Solutions North America and the company's global leader for Diversity & Inclusion. He is accountable for leading the development and implementation of strategies to engage and harness the dynamic power of people. Having worked with multiple top organizations for more than 15 years, Courtney’s career has been focused on unleashing organizational potential, enhancing innovation and driving performance-based cultures of growth on six continents. A true Tarheel, Courtney was born and raised in Durham, North Carolina; later graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In life, he is guided by the quote “If your presence doesn’t make an impact, then your absence won’t make a difference.”
Featured Speakers
![Scott Gordon](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/3988197-6658a3f90402b.jpg)
Scott Gordon
President & CEO, Cooperative Elevator Co.
Scott Gordon is President and CEO of Pigeon, MI-based Cooperative Elevator Co. Celebrating over 108 years in business, Cooperative Elevator Co. is an integral part of agriculture in Michigan’s Thumb – receiving, processing and marketing superior-grade products from 1,115 family-operated farms, reaching families’ tables across the U.S. and the globe. Prior to being named President & CEO in 2016, Gordon served in multiple senior management roles with SunOpta. He started his agribusiness career in 1997, leading a major seed plant expansion and research center development projects in Australia and North America for DuPont-Pioneer.
Scott Gordon
President & CEO, Cooperative Elevator Co.
Scott Gordon is President and CEO of Pigeon, MI-based Cooperative Elevator Co. Celebrating over 108 years in business, Cooperative Elevator Co. is an integral part of agriculture in Michigan’s Thumb – receiving, processing and marketing superior-grade products from 1,115 family-operated farms, reaching families’ tables across the U.S. and the globe. Prior to being named President & CEO in 2016, Gordon served in multiple senior management roles with SunOpta. He started his agribusiness career in 1997, leading a major seed plant expansion and research center development projects in Australia and North America for DuPont-Pioneer.
![Stephanie Szymas](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/3945713-6646b38457b0f.png)
Stephanie Szymas
Lobbyist, McAlvey, Merchant & Associates
Stephanie Szymas is a lobbyist at McAlvey, Merchant & Associates bringing years of campaign, nonprofit, fundraising, and legislative experience with her. Prior to joining the firm, Stephanie worked as Legislative and Campaign Director for Representative Carol Glanville from West Michigan. She ran both her special election in 2022 and re-election campaign before joining her in Lansing as her Legislative Director. Stephanie previously worked for Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and in finance for a range of advocacy and nonprofit organizations. Stephanie received her Bachelor of Science from Saint Mary’s College of Notre Dame, Indiana. Stephanie is a lifelong West Michigander and resides in Grand Haven, Michigan.
Stephanie Szymas
Lobbyist, McAlvey, Merchant & Associates
Stephanie Szymas is a lobbyist at McAlvey, Merchant & Associates bringing years of campaign, nonprofit, fundraising, and legislative experience with her. Prior to joining the firm, Stephanie worked as Legislative and Campaign Director for Representative Carol Glanville from West Michigan. She ran both her special election in 2022 and re-election campaign before joining her in Lansing as her Legislative Director. Stephanie previously worked for Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and in finance for a range of advocacy and nonprofit organizations. Stephanie received her Bachelor of Science from Saint Mary’s College of Notre Dame, Indiana. Stephanie is a lifelong West Michigander and resides in Grand Haven, Michigan.
Dr. Paul Isely
Associate Dean and Professor of Economics, Grand Valley State University
Dr. Paul Isely is currently Associate Dean and Professor of Economics for the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. Dr. Isely’s research has led more than 50 publications which consist of peer review journal articles, local articles, research reports and grant reports. These articles have explored West Michigan’s economy and its relationship to the National and State Economies. His research led to his first appointment by Governor Snyder and then renewed by Governor Whitmer of Michigan to the Utility Consumer Participation Board where he is currently the Interim Chair.
![Dr. Paul Isely](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/1900049-62bb5b841fdb6.png)
Dr. Paul Isely
Associate Dean and Professor of Economics, Grand Valley State University
Dr. Paul Isely is currently Associate Dean and Professor of Economics for the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. Dr. Isely’s research has led more than 50 publications which consist of peer review journal articles, local articles, research reports and grant reports. These articles have explored West Michigan’s economy and its relationship to the National and State Economies. His research led to his first appointment by Governor Snyder and then renewed by Governor Whitmer of Michigan to the Utility Consumer Participation Board where he is currently the Interim Chair.
Dr. Tim Boring
Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
Dr. Tim Boring serves as the Director for MDARD supporting the department's continued commitment in investing in the state’s rural communities, expanding food and agriculture businesses, protecting consumers from the pump to the plate, and preserving Michigan’s environmental resources. He previously served as the State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency. Boring's family operates a six-generation farm in Stockbridge, Michigan. Prior to his appointment at the USDA, he was the president and founder of Michigan Agriculture Advancement. He also previously served as the Vice President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association and worked as research director of the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee. Governor Whitmer had previously appointed Dr. Boring to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development in 2019. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriscience, Master of Science in Crop and Soil Sciences, and Ph.D. in Crop and Soil Sciences from Michigan State University.
![Dr. Tim Boring](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/2578322-645163bd5d5e2.jpg)
Dr. Tim Boring
Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
Dr. Tim Boring serves as the Director for MDARD supporting the department's continued commitment in investing in the state’s rural communities, expanding food and agriculture businesses, protecting consumers from the pump to the plate, and preserving Michigan’s environmental resources. He previously served as the State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency. Boring's family operates a six-generation farm in Stockbridge, Michigan. Prior to his appointment at the USDA, he was the president and founder of Michigan Agriculture Advancement. He also previously served as the Vice President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association and worked as research director of the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee. Governor Whitmer had previously appointed Dr. Boring to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development in 2019. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriscience, Master of Science in Crop and Soil Sciences, and Ph.D. in Crop and Soil Sciences from Michigan State University.
Dr. Matthew Daum
Interim Dean of the Michigan State University (MSU) College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR)
Prior to his appointment at interim dean on July 1, 2024, Daum served as director of the MSU School of Packaging and assistant dean of corporate relations and strategy for CANR. Prior to his return to his alma mater in 2020, Daum held a 25-year-career at HP Inc. (formerly Hewlett Packard) based in Boise, Idaho. In 2016, Daum became HP’s Director of Engineering for the LaserJet toner supplies business. He was responsible for new product research and development, current product engineering, supplies security strategy and product/package serialization strategy and implementation. Since July 2019 he also held the position of Product Marketing Director for the LaserJet supplies business.
He began his career at HP as a Packaging Engineer and eventually moved into management roles including Packaging, Supply Chain and Big Data Global Analytics. Most recently he held executive manager positions in Product Marketing and Product Research and Development for the HP LaserJet supplies business. In addition, since 2007 Daum has served as adjunct associate professor at Clemson University in the Department of Food, Nutrition and Packaging Sciences where he advises graduate students. He has also guest lectured on the topics of supply chain and packaging at Clemson and the College of Idaho.
Dr. Matthew Daum
Interim Dean of the Michigan State University (MSU) College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR)
Prior to his appointment at interim dean on July 1, 2024, Daum served as director of the MSU School of Packaging and assistant dean of corporate relations and strategy for CANR. Prior to his return to his alma mater in 2020, Daum held a 25-year-career at HP Inc. (formerly Hewlett Packard) based in Boise, Idaho. In 2016, Daum became HP’s Director of Engineering for the LaserJet toner supplies business. He was responsible for new product research and development, current product engineering, supplies security strategy and product/package serialization strategy and implementation. Since July 2019 he also held the position of Product Marketing Director for the LaserJet supplies business.
He began his career at HP as a Packaging Engineer and eventually moved into management roles including Packaging, Supply Chain and Big Data Global Analytics. Most recently he held executive manager positions in Product Marketing and Product Research and Development for the HP LaserJet supplies business. In addition, since 2007 Daum has served as adjunct associate professor at Clemson University in the Department of Food, Nutrition and Packaging Sciences where he advises graduate students. He has also guest lectured on the topics of supply chain and packaging at Clemson and the College of Idaho.
![Dr. Matthew Daum](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/4326124-66c76d7d18859.png)
Dr. Matthew Daum
Interim Dean of the Michigan State University (MSU) College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR)
Prior to his appointment at interim dean on July 1, 2024, Daum served as director of the MSU School of Packaging and assistant dean of corporate relations and strategy for CANR. Prior to his return to his alma mater in 2020, Daum held a 25-year-career at HP Inc. (formerly Hewlett Packard) based in Boise, Idaho. In 2016, Daum became HP’s Director of Engineering for the LaserJet toner supplies business. He was responsible for new product research and development, current product engineering, supplies security strategy and product/package serialization strategy and implementation. Since July 2019 he also held the position of Product Marketing Director for the LaserJet supplies business.
He began his career at HP as a Packaging Engineer and eventually moved into management roles including Packaging, Supply Chain and Big Data Global Analytics. Most recently he held executive manager positions in Product Marketing and Product Research and Development for the HP LaserJet supplies business. In addition, since 2007 Daum has served as adjunct associate professor at Clemson University in the Department of Food, Nutrition and Packaging Sciences where he advises graduate students. He has also guest lectured on the topics of supply chain and packaging at Clemson and the College of Idaho.
![Dr. George Smith](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/2628413-646e3337d7b69.jpg)
Dr. George Smith
Director, MSU AgBioResearch
Dr. George Smith is the AgBioResearch director, Smith is responsible for the strategic direction and administrative oversight of the organization, whose university-wide research mission is linked directly to promoting dynamic solutions for food systems and the environment in Michigan and beyond. AgBioResearch directly supports approximately 300 scientists from seven MSU colleges engaged in research, 15 outlying centers throughout Michigan reflective of the diversity of its research portfolio in agriculture and natural resources, as well as numerous on-campus facilities and key research infrastructure.
![Dr. Quentin Tyler](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/1900074-62bb5cf3da1b4.png)
Dr. Quentin Tyler
Associate Dean and Director of Michigan State University Extension
On May 1, 2021, Dr. Quentin Tyler assumed leadership of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE). Dr. Tyler’s focus is on supporting and enhancing MSUE’s traditional programs that have made the organization a national leader, but also looking toward innovative and creative ways to reach out to new audiences under MSUE’s mission. Dr. Tyler began his career in Extension at age 18 when he interned as an agricultural agent in Christian County, Kentucky. He went on to serve Kentucky in both 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences and as assistant dean at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. Dr. Tyler joined the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources team as associate dean and director of diversity, equity and inclusion in 2018 after a holding in a similar role at Kentucky.
Dr. George Smith
Director, MSU AgBioResearch
Dr. George Smith is the AgBioResearch director, Smith is responsible for the strategic direction and administrative oversight of the organization, whose university-wide research mission is linked directly to promoting dynamic solutions for food systems and the environment in Michigan and beyond. AgBioResearch directly supports approximately 300 scientists from seven MSU colleges engaged in research, 15 outlying centers throughout Michigan reflective of the diversity of its research portfolio in agriculture and natural resources, as well as numerous on-campus facilities and key research infrastructure.
Dr. Quentin Tyler
Associate Dean and Director of Michigan State University Extension
On May 1, 2021, Dr. Quentin Tyler assumed leadership of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE). Dr. Tyler’s focus is on supporting and enhancing MSUE’s traditional programs that have made the organization a national leader, but also looking toward innovative and creative ways to reach out to new audiences under MSUE’s mission. Dr. Tyler began his career in Extension at age 18 when he interned as an agricultural agent in Christian County, Kentucky. He went on to serve Kentucky in both 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences and as assistant dean at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. Dr. Tyler joined the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources team as associate dean and director of diversity, equity and inclusion in 2018 after a holding in a similar role at Kentucky.
![Mark Feight](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/756532-5fadb43724766.jpg)
Mark Feight
Managing Director, International Agribusiness Group
As a co-founder of IAG and a top consultant to the global agricultural industry for over 30 years, Mark Feight helps individuals, organizations, corporations and governments, make better decisions. Mark's expertise on commodity risk management and unique marketing concepts provide an enhanced decision making process for those in agricultural production, biofuels, food service, processing, or financial services. A leading expert on the global agricultural economy, Mark has published a number of industry-targeted magazine articles, and performed a multitude of speaking engagements, including testifying before the U.S. Senate Ag Committee regarding the 1995 Farm Bill. As Managing Director of IAG, Mark is responsible for commodity market research, developing and maintaining client relationships, and directing all business functions. He holds a degree in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University.
Mark Feight
Managing Director, International Agribusiness Group
As a co-founder of IAG and a top consultant to the global agricultural industry for over 30 years, Mark Feight helps individuals, organizations, corporations and governments, make better decisions. Mark's expertise on commodity risk management and unique marketing concepts provide an enhanced decision making process for those in agricultural production, biofuels, food service, processing, or financial services. A leading expert on the global agricultural economy, Mark has published a number of industry-targeted magazine articles, and performed a multitude of speaking engagements, including testifying before the U.S. Senate Ag Committee regarding the 1995 Farm Bill. As Managing Director of IAG, Mark is responsible for commodity market research, developing and maintaining client relationships, and directing all business functions. He holds a degree in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University.
![Dan Carmody](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/4326219-66c771bd2cac2.jpeg)
Dan Carmody
CEO, Eastern Market Parnership
Dan has more than 45 years experience in place making, local economic development and local food systems with a rich and broad array of experience around North America. From ten years in the trenches as a tavern keeper thru twenty years of place making in the second tier industrial cities of the Midwest (Rock Island and Fort Wayne) to operating the largest public market in the city typically selected as the poster child for the post carbon era (Detroit). Dan's current passions include merging place-based and sectoral-based economic development to foster the regeneration of one of Detroit's most venerated places to inspire new templates and narratives to re-purpose vacant urban land and resurrect regional food systems. Dan has spent his life seeking clues to regenerate economies left behind by globalization in developed countries be they small towns or urban centers. Spreading wealth more broadly- geographically and demographically -is the most important goal of local economic development today.
Dan Carmody
CEO, Eastern Market Parnership
Dan has more than 45 years experience in place making, local economic development and local food systems with a rich and broad array of experience around North America. From ten years in the trenches as a tavern keeper thru twenty years of place making in the second tier industrial cities of the Midwest (Rock Island and Fort Wayne) to operating the largest public market in the city typically selected as the poster child for the post carbon era (Detroit). Dan's current passions include merging place-based and sectoral-based economic development to foster the regeneration of one of Detroit's most venerated places to inspire new templates and narratives to re-purpose vacant urban land and resurrect regional food systems. Dan has spent his life seeking clues to regenerate economies left behind by globalization in developed countries be they small towns or urban centers. Spreading wealth more broadly- geographically and demographically -is the most important goal of local economic development today.
Matt Gunderson
Senior Vice President, Business Growth & Strategic Relations, Farmers National Company
Matt Gunderson serves as Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth and Business Relations for Farmers National Company, based in Omaha, NE, the nation’s largest farm management and agricultural real estate firm. Matt is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and execution of the company’s marketing and advertising initiatives, and leads Farmers National’s long-range plan growth goals for across the company’s ten business lines. Matt is an Accredited Farm Manager through the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. He serves on the board of the Nebraska Farm Bureau and is a member of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Council. Matt grew up on a farm outside of Yankton, South Dakota and holds a degree in Animal Science from South Dakota State University.
![Matt Gunderson](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/2628396-646e32411bdc1.jpg)
Matt Gunderson
Senior Vice President, Business Growth & Strategic Relations, Farmers National Company
Matt Gunderson serves as Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth and Business Relations for Farmers National Company, based in Omaha, NE, the nation’s largest farm management and agricultural real estate firm. Matt is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and execution of the company’s marketing and advertising initiatives, and leads Farmers National’s long-range plan growth goals for across the company’s ten business lines. Matt is an Accredited Farm Manager through the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. He serves on the board of the Nebraska Farm Bureau and is a member of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Council. Matt grew up on a farm outside of Yankton, South Dakota and holds a degree in Animal Science from South Dakota State University.
![Jim Byrum](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/1900123-62bb5ee87b996.png)
Jim Byrum
Executive Director, Riveron
Jim Byrum serves as Executive Director at Riveron, a national business advisory firm specializing in accounting, finance, technology, and operations. In this role, Jim is bringing his decades of industry experience as a business owner and association executive to advise some of the world’s largest companies, across multiple sectors, on their operations and their long-term strategy. Jim also remains very active in Michigan agriculture, serving on the Board of Directors for Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch and helping agricultural interests look to the future.
![Anne Steen](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/4271782-66be19269189e.jpg)
Anne Steen
Associate, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Anne Steen brings her counseling skills to a wide variety of labor and employment matters, working diligently to serve clients in an area that has ramped up significantly in the pandemic era. Employers striving to keep their workplaces safe and stay compliant with the requirements of legislation, mandates and executive orders benefit from Anne’s ability to explain their obligations and options. Employers appreciate Anne’s ability to interpret their unique circumstances in the context of statutes such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the laws’ Michigan counterparts, as well as regulations relating to issues such as employee rights.
Drawing on her teaching experience, Anne breaks down multifaceted topics into their basic components, translates complex ideas and legalese into plain English and generally acts as a “go-between” who helps clients understand the laws under which their businesses operate. In discussions on compliance, litigation, arbitration, government agency actions and other areas, she provides those she represents with meaningful, practical and useful information.
![Tony McCaul](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/4326240-66c772e20dc82.jpg)
Tony McCaul
Executive Director, The Critter Barn
Tony, Executive Director of Critter Barn is building and shaping the influence and outreach of agriculture education. Tony has extensive experience in Agriculture Science and Ag education as he grew up in Lake Odessa on his family farm. Over 14 years, Tony developed an outstanding agriculture program at Careerline Tech Center, Ottawa Area ISD which has become one of the best recognized throughout the state. He was a former president of the Michigan Association of Agriscience Educators. Tony is a graduate of Michigan State University and Colorado State University with a Bachelors and Masters degree in Agriscience, Agriculture Education and Biology. He has also been awarded an Honorary Degree from the Michigan FFA Association and recognized by Michigan Farm Bureau as Agriscience Educator of the year. Tony, and his wife, Katy, live in Zeeland with their two children and are actively involved in their church and community.
Jim Byrum
Executive Director, Riveron
Jim Byrum serves as Executive Director at Riveron, a national business advisory firm specializing in accounting, finance, technology, and operations. In this role, Jim is bringing his decades of industry experience as a business owner and association executive to advise some of the world’s largest companies, across multiple sectors, on their operations and their long-term strategy. Jim also remains very active in Michigan agriculture, serving on the Board of Directors for Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch and helping agricultural interests look to the future.
Anne Steen
Associate, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Anne Steen brings her counseling skills to a wide variety of labor and employment matters, working diligently to serve clients in an area that has ramped up significantly in the pandemic era. Employers striving to keep their workplaces safe and stay compliant with the requirements of legislation, mandates and executive orders benefit from Anne’s ability to explain their obligations and options. Employers appreciate Anne’s ability to interpret their unique circumstances in the context of statutes such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the laws’ Michigan counterparts, as well as regulations relating to issues such as employee rights.
Drawing on her teaching experience, Anne breaks down multifaceted topics into their basic components, translates complex ideas and legalese into plain English and generally acts as a “go-between” who helps clients understand the laws under which their businesses operate. In discussions on compliance, litigation, arbitration, government agency actions and other areas, she provides those she represents with meaningful, practical and useful information.
Tony McCaul
Executive Director, The Critter Barn
Tony, Executive Director of Critter Barn is building and shaping the influence and outreach of agriculture education. Tony has extensive experience in Agriculture Science and Ag education as he grew up in Lake Odessa on his family farm. Over 14 years, Tony developed an outstanding agriculture program at Careerline Tech Center, Ottawa Area ISD which has become one of the best recognized throughout the state. He was a former president of the Michigan Association of Agriscience Educators. Tony is a graduate of Michigan State University and Colorado State University with a Bachelors and Masters degree in Agriscience, Agriculture Education and Biology. He has also been awarded an Honorary Degree from the Michigan FFA Association and recognized by Michigan Farm Bureau as Agriscience Educator of the year. Tony, and his wife, Katy, live in Zeeland with their two children and are actively involved in their church and community.