Soy Squad offers college students ag leadership

August 28, 2025 | Kriss Nelson

From farm fields to the state capitol, Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) Soy Squad is helping the next generation of ag professionals step into experiences that shape careers and communities.

Soy Squad is a program offered by ISA that provides students with the opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the soybean industry through the lens of a commodity organization.

Participants engage in three interactive sessions delving into one or more of ISA’s four key departments: advocacy, demand, engagement and productivity.

“Students will gain insight into how the soybean checkoff supports Iowa’s soybean growers, build leadership skills and connect with industry leaders and peers,” says Julia Brenizer, ISA producer services coordinator and Soy Squad program lead.

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Program requirements

• Must attend all regularly scheduled meetings. Sessions are scheduled for Oct. 30-31; Feb. 4-5, and March 26-27 and all take place in the Ankeny/Des Moines area.
• Must be attending a two or four-year college/university in the state of Iowa.
• Pursuing a major in an agriculture/agriculture-related field.

Networking value

Students say the experience goes beyond classroom lessons, offering valuable connections and confidence for their future careers.

“It was a great networking opportunity that I believe others should have to enjoy and learn from. I met a lot of people from Iowa State, Des Moines Area Community College and other colleges. It was a good way to meet people my age who were entering the same profession. And it was a great way to step outside my comfort zone,” says Jarius Davis, senior at Graceland University and 2024-2025 Soy Squad participant.

Each member will receive a Casey’s gas card and ISA covers all lodging and meal expenses.

For more information, contact Brenizer at jbrenizer@iasoybeans.com.

Written by Kriss Nelson.

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