2010 Midwest Region: Cheryl Day

Farms: Corn, Soybeans and Raises Cattle
Cerro Gordo, IL

"I am blessed to have such a supportive family. I am just one member of a farming team. I want my children to learn about agriculture the same way I did – by getting dirty and taking risks. Farming is a rollercoaster, but agriculture has always been my passion. I truly want to empower others to pursue their agricultural dreams and protect the right to farm for the next generation." — Cheryl Day

My mom, Cheryl Day, is my agricultural inspiration. She’s demonstrated to me that it’s possible to achieve success in a stereotypical agricultural community through hard work and perseverance. I appreciate my mom for being our coach, mentor, and educator. She’s allowed my brother and me to learn by doing and giving us the confidence to take risks, celebrate success, and endure hardships. As a ninth generation farmer, my mother and the entire family continues the tradition of raising corn, soybeans, and livestock. On the cattle farm she manages the genetic profile, nutrition, and animal welfare of the cattle. markets, and recordkeeping. On the grain farm, she’s a supportive arm willing to pull tanks, feed the family farm crew, or develop the farm resume. My mom has volunteered countless hours to various agriculture organizations. She accepts any invitation to tell the truth about agriculture. As a Croplife Ambassador, she’s presented many agriculture lessons in the classroom and community. As a 4-H leader, my mom works hard to create a learning environment that encourages every member to become better leaders and citizens. She’s always willing to help any individual who genuinely wants to succeed in agriculture. On the state and national level, my mother has held numerous leadership roles including state president and national secretary with agricultural organizations. I appreciate my mother for utilizing her offices to educate the consumer, advocate for agriculture, and mentor emerging agricultural leaders. As a committee chairperson for a national agriculture organization, she’s been instrumental in educating members on natural resources issues. Although I’m sad when my mother’s volunteering efforts pulls her away from the farm, I understand her commitment that speaking out for agriculture is necessary to ensure that my generation will be able to farm. (nominated by Sierra Day)