Meet the FY18 Corn Board Candidates: Don Glenn

This article and podcast are part of a series profiling candidates for the 2018 Corn Board.

Having gained knowledge and experience as a leader at both the state and national level, Don Glenn brings years of experience and insight to his service of fellow farmers. Having already served one year, he hopes to continue his service through reelection to the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Board.

Glenn seeks reelection with a full understanding of the incredible commitment and dedication the role requires. His desire to give back to farmers across the country, utilizing his many leadership experiences, stems from a deep love for farming.

“I was elected last year to serve a one-year term and, to some extent, it feels like I am just getting started,” he said. “Most importantly, I have a passion for our industry, our organization and for ag in general. I want to see it succeed and prosper.”  

Through this experience, he developed a perspective on the qualities and traits necessary for leadership.

“A leader must be able to put aside his personal opinions. He has to listen to the people that he represents,” he explained. “He has to weigh the evidence, the facts and the input received and use that to make informed decisions.”

As a member of the Corn Board, finding new uses would be Glenn’s first goal.

“One of the major issues we will face going forward, this year in particular, is that it's a farm bill year. We will face challenges as we pass a farm bill but, in this time of low prices, we must put a farm bill in place that provides an adequate safety net for producers.”

 He sees many important emerging opportunities for farmers, which he would prioritize, gaining prominence in the near future.

“Trade is an issue that has popped up with the new administration. I see this as an opportunity, not necessarily just a challenge. We have the opportunity to get increased funding for MAP and FMD. The administration is coming to understand how important trade is for agriculture.”

While NCGA has had many successes with ethanol, Glenn notes that farmers still can’t rest on their laurels. He would work to drive important ethanol policy and further necessary infrastructure if reelected.

Glenn operates a fourth-generation family farm, along with his brother, Brian, in northern Alabama. Together, they grow corn, soybeans, wheat and canola using cutting edge technologies and practices that help maximize yield while protecting the environment.

To listen to the full interview with Glenn, click here.

The NCGA Corn Board election takes place at the July 19 Corn Congress session in Washington.