Today is Bob Stallman Appreciation Day

Joanna SchroederAFBF, Agribusiness, award

Today is Bob Stallman Appreciation Day. Stallman served for 16 years as the President of the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and as he prepares to step down, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack designated January 6, 2016 to celebrate his work on behalf of farmers and ranchers. Stallman’s last official duties will be during the upcoming 2016 AFBF Annual Convention& IDEAg Trade Show taking place in Orlando, Florida January 8-13, 2016.

Vilsack led a brief ceremony today in DC to mark Bob Stallman Appreciation Day.

USDA declared January 6, 2016 as "Bob Stallman Appreciation Day." Stallman is stepping down this month as President of AFBF, a position he held for 16 years.

USDA declared January 6, 2016 as “Bob Stallman Appreciation Day.” Stallman is stepping down this month as President of AFBF, a position he held for 16 years.

Vilsack said during the event, “Bob Stallman is well-deserving of recognition for his outstanding contributions to all corners of agriculture and his commitment to strengthen rural America for the hard-working families who call it home. For 16 years, Bob has led the American Farm Bureau Federation with a steady hand and champion’s heart. Under his leadership, the Farm Bureau’s advocacy efforts to connect the work being done in rural America to its impact on the lives of every American have evolved and grown. Stallman and the Farm Bureau have played an instrumental role in shaping, passing and implementing the 2014 Farm Bill, supported producers in the wake of historic drought conditions and other natural disasters, and expanded new market opportunities for farmers and ranchers through their support of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and other trade agreements.

Bob is the kind of leader who makes people in the business proud of what they do. He has inspired countless agricultural leaders, past and present, including myself. I am honored to call him a strong partner and a good friend.

Bob leaves behind big shoes to fill, and USDA looks forward to working with the Farm Bureau as they select their next leader.”

View the Bob Stallman Appreciation Day proclamation.

From the ZimmComm team, thanks Bob for all the work you have done to support America’s farmers and ranchers.