Hi, I’m Bryan Severs. I raise corn, soybeans and cattle with my family in Vermilion County, and I’m honored to introduce myself as your Chairman of the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA). Since July 2020, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the Illinois Soybean Board of Directors. Over those five years, ISA has made incredible advancements on behalf of Illinois soybean farmers. Although there are far too many accomplishments to list in one column, I want to share a few of my favorite initiatives that I find especially impactful.

After launching in March 2024, ISA’s Soy Innovation Center (SIC) team has been working around the clock to accelerate the commercialization of soy-based products. As farmers produce more and more soybeans each year, and consumer demand for sustainable products continues to grow, the SIC is bridging the gap by streamlining the development of innovative, renewable products made from soybeans.

In this issue of Illinois Field & Bean, we highlight a new initiative of the SIC, the International Commercialization Initiative (ICI). The ICI unites the efforts of U.S. soybean organizations involved in researching and commercializing soy-based products to develop a single international market development strategy for industrial-use, soy-based products.

Of course, driving innovation starts with strong production. Through checkoff-funded agronomic research, ISA is helping farmers maximize yield potential, improve profitability and enhance sustainability. A key part of this work is the recently established ISA Agronomy Farm. A farmer-led research and demonstration site, ISA’s Agronomy Farm produces actionable data, informs public policy and showcases the innovation within Illinois agriculture.

Located just south of Heyworth, Ill., the Agronomy Farm showcases practices such as double cropping, cover crops, pollinator habitats and more. By partnering with researchers and testing new ideas in real-world conditions, ISA is helping farmers make informed decisions that keep Illinois soybean production competitive and resilient.

As we continue to strengthen our markets and improve production, it’s equally important that we make sure sound legislation is in place to protect our freedom to farm. Through the Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG), we’re bringing your voices and concerns directly to lawmakers in Springfield and Washington to ensure they understand and support the needs of Illinois agriculture.

One recent example of this impact are the efforts ISG staff members took to successfully implement a bipartisan B20 law, which encourages the use of higher blends of biodiesel through a sales tax exemption. This law was a major win for Illinois farmers and our environment, driving demand for biodiesel while advancing the use of renewable fuels.

In this issue of Field & Bean, you’ll also hear more about ISA’s international market development efforts, including a recap of a recent trade mission to Indonesia. There, our Market Development team worked to deepen trade relations and explore the country’s growing agricultural sector. Over the years, ISA has met countless soybean buyers where they are, strengthening lasting partnerships and fueling demand for Illinois soybeans.

Together, these efforts, from innovation and research to farmer advocacy and market development, ensure that Illinois farmers remain competitive in an ever-changing industry. It is a privilege to serve you and I look forward to working alongside you to build an even stronger future for Illinois soybean farmers.