Bloomington, Ill. – August 17, 2026 – After undergoing a rigorous judging process, 20 farmers were identified as the Illinois Soybean Association’s (ISA) fifth class of Illinois 20 Under 40 farmers.
These individuals are at the forefront of agriculture, demonstrating exemplary citizenship within their communities and serving as inspirations for their generation and the ones to come. They not only honor family traditions but also forge new paths while extending a helping hand to their neighbors.
The 2026 winners are as follows:
- Preston Brown of Oregon, IL
- David Drendel of Steward, IL
- Matt Herriott of Philo, IL
- Casey Hettinger of Philo, IL
- Liz Hulsizer of Galesburg, IL
- Evan Hultine of Princeton, IL
- Ike Hutchcraft of Benton, IL
- Chandler Janes (Bruns) of Urbana, IL
- Ashlan Kapsalis of Farmington, IL
- Jase Kath of Carlock, IL
- Craig Kniepmann of Pocahontas, IL
- Brian Krukewitt of Homer, IL
- Evan Leeper of Forsyth, IL
- Evan Marr of Jacksonville, IL
- Lance Muirheid of Oakley, IL
- Jake Nicholson of Deer Creek, IL
- Matthew Pauley of Sumner, IL
- Ryan Reeverts of Byron, IL
- Bryce Williams of Enfield, IL
- Joshua Wurmnest of Melvin, IL
The future of agriculture lies in the hands of young farmers, and when it comes to Illinois, our prospects shine brightest. Within the state, there is an abundance of exceptional farmers specializing in various fields, each operating in a league that sets them apart from the rest.
“The Illinois Soybean Association is proud to recognize yet another class of outstanding individuals who represent the future of Illinois agriculture,” said ISA Chairman Bryan Severs. “Recognizing these emerging leaders helps ensure Illinois agriculture stays strong, resilient and in good hands for the next generation.”
After the nomination window earlier this spring, a panel of judges meticulously reviewed applications from aspiring young farmers across the state. These individuals were nominated for their outstanding contributions and initiatives aimed at improving both their farming operations and the well-being of their communities.
The ISA checkoff program received valuable support from esteemed partner organization, John Deere, who played a significant role in this year’s funding and planning process.
To learn more about the Illinois 20 Under 40 award program, please visit www.ilsoy.org/20-under-40/.
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The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) checkoff and membership programs represent more than 43,000 soybean farmers in Illinois. The checkoff funds market development, soybean production and government relations efforts, while the membership program, Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG) and the Illinois Soybean Growers PAC actively advocates for positive and impactful legislation for farmers at local, state and national levels. ISA upholds the interests of Illinois soybean farmers through promotion, advocacy, research and education with the vision of becoming a trusted partner of Illinois soybean farmers to ensure their profitability now and for future generations. For more information, visit the website www.ilsoy.org and www.ilsoygrowers.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Betsy Osman
Illinois Soybean Association
betsy.osman@ilsoy.org
