​SPRINGFIELD – Southern Illinois Farm Bureau members learned how to harness the power of grassroots
advocacy during the organization’s annual Governmental Affairs Leadership Conference (GALC), held Feb. 17 in Springfield.
Centered on the theme “The Power of Grassroots,” this year’s conference highlighted the impact of member voices shaping policy at every level. Local, state political leaders and legislators met with Farm Bureau leaders from across the state, including dozens of members from southern Illinois, to discuss IFB’s 2026 legislative priorities. The event culminated in a legislative reception for elected officials, who met with IFB members.
"The power of grassroots is in each and every one of you," IFB President Philip Nelson said during his opening remarks. "You are the people who develop the policies. You're the people that work with legislators to see those policies get implemented."
Attendees also heard from numerous lawmakers, including Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch and Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, as well as U.S. House Ag Committee Chair Glenn "GT" Thompson, outgoing Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin and U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood.
“The Governmental Affairs Leadership Conference is where grassroots power comes to life,” said Kevin Semlow, IFB executive director of governmental affairs and commodities. “We’re focused on equipping members to advocate for the policies they care about. It’s an opportunity to learn, engage and connect, because when our members lead, agriculture’s voice is heard.”

PEORIA – Young leaders in agriculture from across the state met in Peoria for the Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leaders Conference, held Feb. 6-7.
Among them, Samuel Deisher represents District 17 on the 2024 State Young Leader Committee.
Members from Franklin county as well as 24 SIU Collegiate Farm Bureau members attended the 2026 conference, which featured industry experts from across the ag landscape, educating the attendees on a wide range of topics, including succession planning, on the farm tools, agribusiness management, young professionals, education and engagement, trends on the horizon and much more.
The keynote address was given by Lance Weaver. Weaver is a former Ag Bank turned Business Coach, focused on helping American producers organize and improve their operations for long-term success.
The state Young Leader Committee is comprised of 18 district representatives between ages 18 and 35 who are passionate about promoting agriculture and Illinois Farm Bureau. Committee members engage with others from around the state at conferences and workshops and through their district and county Farm Bureau.
IFB President Phil Nelson and Vice President Evan Hultine were in attendance, along with several members of the IFB board of directors.

Photo 1: Pictured left to right are Franklin County Young Leaders Michael Browning and Derek Sample.
Photo 2: SIU Collegiate Members