Name: Grace Howe,
Hometown: Waukon, IA
Major and Graduation Date: Agriculture and Rural Policy Studies, Dec. 2022
Favorite ISU class? It’s tough to choose just one favorite course from my time at Iowa State. As a double major in Agriculture and Rural Policy Studies and Journalism and Mass Communications, I had the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects. My top three favorite classes were Mass Communication Law (JLMC 460), Population and Society (SOC 345), and Comparative Political Behavior (POL S 305).
Job Title & Company/Organization: Wisconsin Agri-Business Association, Executive Director
Major Job/Position Responsibilities: As Executive Director, I lead the association’s efforts to support and represent Wisconsin’s agri-business industry. I advocate for our members through policy work, create and manage programs that serve our 240 member companies, represent the industry in conversations with government, partners, and the public, and oversee the association’s finances to ensure long-term stability and growth. I started as Executive Director November 2024. Previously, I served as the Director of Communications and Policy.
What do you like most about your job/position? One of my favorite parts of my role is working with the state legislature to advocate for agriculture. I truly enjoy the opportunity to engage with elected officials and helping them understand the critical role agri-business plays in Wisconsin’s economy and communities. I find great purpose in building those relationships and being a voice for agriculture at the Capitol.
What advice would you give to current students pursuing a career in Agriculture and Life Sciences? My advice to current students pursuing a career in agriculture is simple: dive in. Dive into your coursework, get involved in campus clubs, take full advantage of internships, and say yes to the opportunities the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State will offer you. Embrace this season of life. It will come and go in the blink of an eye, but these few years are bound to shape your future career.