Springfield, IL – Members of the Highland Community College Collegiate Farm Bureau recently attended the Illinois Farm Bureau® (IFB) Governmental Affairs Leadership Conference, held February 17, 2026 in Springfield, IL. This annual conference brings together Farm Bureau members from across Illinois to explore local, state, and federal policy issues impacting agriculture and rural communities.
The conference offers a unique opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of the political landscape and how grassroots advocacy shapes agricultural policy. Throughout the event, members engaged in sessions covering topics such as election forecasts, policymaker insights, and strategies for effective communication with elected officials.
A key part of the conference experience for Collegiate Farm Bureau members is the opportunity to interact directly with lawmakers during the Legislative Reception. This event provides a valuable chance to share perspectives, build relationships, and advocate for issues important to agriculture and rural communities.
“I have attended this conference multiple times and really enjoy listening to the ideas and perspectives of the legislators. Touring the Capital Building and talking with Senator Andrew Chesney on the floor of the Illinois Senate Chamber was also a highlight”, Aylivia Danekas, Highland Community College Collegiate Farm Bureau Vice President.
The Highland Community College Collegiate Farm Bureau is proud to participate in this important event and looks forward to applying the knowledge and connections gained to inform and empower their chapter and campus community throughout the year.
For more information about the Highland Community College Collegiate Farm Bureau, contact Justin Ebert at justin.ebert@highland.edu.
About Illinois Farm Bureau
Founded in 1916, Illinois Farm Bureau – originally known as the Illinois Agricultural Association – is a nonprofit, grassroots membership organization. Illinois Farm Bureau and its statewide network of county Farm Bureaus give members an advantage through impactful advocacy, trusted information, and meaningful development to support their careers and Illinois farm families.
Collegiate Farm Bureau is a program of the Illinois Farm Bureau® designed to engage college students in agriculture, leadership, and service. With chapters across the state, Collegiate Farm Bureau unites students as the voice of agriculture on their campuses and in their communities, empowering them to be powerful assets for the agriculture industry.
Learn more about Illinois agriculture at www.ilfb.org.