First State Farmers Attend National Leadership Conference in Oregon

Four young Delaware farmers traveled to Portland, Oregon for a national Farm Bureau leadership conference in March. The event focused on developing agricultural advocacy skills and featured educational sessions on policy, social media, and consumer engagement.

A group of four young agricultural professionals from Delaware made their way to Portland, Oregon this past March to participate in the 2026 Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference. The multi-day event, which ran from March 13-16, brought together agriculture advocates from across the nation for professional development and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening the farming industry’s future.

The Delaware Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers division serves agricultural professionals between the ages of 18 and 40, focusing on building leadership capabilities and advancing careers within the farming sector. The organization ensures its members can attend such conferences through fundraising initiatives including their yearly Tractor Pull event and auction held during the State Annual Banquet, with additional support from sponsors including Horizon Farm Credit.

Representing Delaware at the conference was Emerson Hickey from Middletown, who currently holds the position of DEFB Ambassador. Hickey earned her spot at the national gathering after claiming victory in Delaware’s Collegiate Discussion Meet this past December, which qualified her to compete on the national stage.

“Competing in the Collegiate Discussion Meet allowed me to engage in meaningful conversations about critical agricultural issues impacting not only the United States, but also right here in Delaware, alongside passionate and like-minded individuals from across the country,” Hickey said of her experience.

The conference agenda included educational workshops on various subjects such as policy developments, strategies for connecting with consumers, and leveraging social media platforms for agricultural advocacy. These learning opportunities prepared participants with tools necessary for promoting and protecting farming interests. Attendees also visited Oregon’s diverse agricultural businesses, including facilities producing cider, dairy products, and chocolate, as well as various growing operations that showcased the state’s agricultural variety.

Those seeking additional details about Delaware’s Young Farmers & Ranchers program can reach State Chair Connor Vincent at connor.vincent33@gmail. Questions regarding the Collegiate Discussion Meet can be directed to DEFB Government Affairs Coordinator Sydnie Grossnickle at sydnie.grossnickle@defb.org or by calling 302-697-3183.