Michele Payne, a nationally known and passionate advocate for the global agrifood system, will be the keynote speaker at the next Farmers and Ranchers College March 14 near Ohiowa. She will present “Gate to Plate," an informative and light-hearted program for women involved in agriculture. It will offer strategies for how women can share their story of living and working in agriculture with today’s consumers. The free event will be held at the Lazy Horse Vineyard and Brewery near Ohiowa.

Payne founded #AgChat and #FoodChat on Twitter, which have led thousands of people from more than 20 countries to regularly discuss food and farm issues. Payne has worked with farmers in more than 25 countries and raised over $5 million in sponsorships for the National FFA Foundation.

Utilizing her diverse professional experience in the agricultural, sales and not-for-profit sectors, in 2001 Payne founded Cause Matters Corp., a company designed to build connections around the food plate. It focuses on addressing food myths, developing science communication, and connecting farm to food. In each of these core areas, Payne has helped organizations clearly identify issues, understand their audience, and develop solutions. Her goal is to help people learn how to communicate why their cause matters — whether you're a scientist, dietitian or in agribusiness.

This program is free, however space is limited so a registration will secure your spot and help provide for a meal count. To register, call the Fillmore County Extension Office by March 11 at 402-759-3712 or register online.

Payne lives with her daughter on a small farm in central Indiana, where they enjoy Registered Holsteins, MSU Spartans, and cooking.

The Farmers and Ranchers College Committee consists of Fred Bruning of Bruning, Bryan Dohrman of Grafton, Sarah Miller of Carleton, Jennifer Engle of Fairmont, Ryne Norton of York, Jim Donovan of Geneva, Bryce Kassik of Geneva, Eric Kamler of Geneva, and Brandy VanDeWalle of Ohiowa.