DeAnna Thomas
Illinois Soybean Association
deanna.thomas@ilsoy.org
(309) 307-9363
Years of Experience: 18
Board Experience:
Bio: After the last few years, I think we can all agree it feels good to get back to our roots. It feels good to travel again, to meet in-person, and to even be able to physically shop for your groceries (if you have kids, you probably still do grocery pickup).
As my career evolved and grew — from farm broadcasting to a seed company to the classroom to now a commodities organization — I have always worked hard to stay connected to my farm-broadcasting roots. The people you meet through NAFB, the friendships and relationships made are priceless and irreplaceable. I cherish those connections to this day.
In my role at the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), I'm now in a position to take it a step further to step up and serve the association that positively impacted my life and career by becoming a member of the NAFB board. I'm excited for the opportunities and offerings we can provide to our membership across the industry and country.
As a former farm broadcaster, ag marketer, agriculture educator, and FFA advisor, I have dedicated my career to informing, educating, and communicating the importance of food, feed, and fuel to audiences of all ages across multiple platforms.
Joining ISA as its media relations manager, I manage the day-to-day media-relations needs of the organization while also supporting a variety of internal and external communications efforts. I live and farm in the Manito, Illinois, with my husband, Braden, a fourth-generation diversified grain and specialty crop farmer. We also stay busy raising the fifth generation of Thomas Family Farms: our two daughters, DeLaney (6) and Bridgette (5).
It would be an honor to serve the NAFB. Thank you for your consideration.
