ST. LOUIS — Think of an individual, organization or group that has profoundly influenced the soybean industry and the soy checkoff — who stands out to you? United Soybean Board (USB) today announced a call for nominations for the Tom Oswald Legacy Award. In its third year, this annual award honors the late Tom Oswald, who will always be remembered as a passionate farmer-leader and dedicated volunteer. The award honors someone who went above and beyond to advance research and promotes investments forward in an unconventional way.
An Iowa soybean and corn farmer, Oswald served eight years as a USB director and three years on the USB executive committee. He frequently posed the question, “How do we make it better-er?” — meaning what extra steps, thoughts, and efforts could the checkoff take to go beyond expectations and provide the best possible outcome?
“Tom was an example of compassion and creativity. He was always willing to tackle the challenging questions, an important quality we value in the recipient of this award. Our soy community is fortunate to have leaders who are dedicated to advancing the soy industry and are committed to maximizing the impact of checkoff dollars,” said Steve Reinhard, USB chair and Ohio farmer. “We look forward to receiving many deserving nominations and are excited to honor an outstanding leader shaping the future for U.S. soybean farmers.”
Ed Anderson, PhD in molecular plant virology, received the award in 2024 for his leadership in improving soybean genetics and agronomic production. His work has benefited the soybean industry while keeping farmers’ needs at the forefront. The inaugural recipient of this award, Ken Bader was awarded in 2023 for his commitment and steadfast efforts to advance the soybean industry, most notably through his work that led to the creation of the United Soybean Board.
If there is an organization, group or individual that you believe should be recognized for their efforts and passion for this industry, visit the USB websiteto submit your nomination. Nominations will close on Nov. 8, 2024, and the award will be presented at Commodity Classic in March 2025.
In one of Oswald’s final interviews with his local TV station KMEG-TV on its “Proud To Be a Hometown Farmer” segment, he encouraged farmers to serve on the soy checkoff. He spoke from the heart, saying, “The rewards are not financial, the rewards are hard to describe because it’s that intangible. Working with other farmers, locally, nationally, it’s that bigger picture. Working with city people who do not know a thing about agriculture and making a connection — you can’t be paid for that. It’s wonderful.”
To learn more about the Tom Oswald Legacy Award, visit Remembering “No-Till Tom.”
