Shakopee, Minn., May 25, 2010 – The Minnesota Corn Growers Association is pleased to announce its Agvocates for 2010-2011. The four Agvocates chosen include Mercedes Lee of Perley, Minnesota; Katie Zenk of Danube, Minnesota; Kristin Spinler of Morristown, Minnesota; and Derek Mulhern of Fountain, Minnesota.

Currently in its first year, the MCGA Agvocate program is designed to create a learning environment to encourage the development of young leaders in agriculture.  It also strives to create awareness of issues facing corn farmers and develop young leaders into skilled advocates for these issues.

Mercedes Lee is currently attending North Dakota State University where she is working towards a double major in Crop and Weed Science and Management Communication. Mercedes grew up raising Hampshire sheep and was active in 4-H, FFA, Minnesota Lamb and Wool Producers and the American Sheep Industry. Mercedes hopes to one day become a crop seed salesperson and increase her flock of Hampshire sheep.

Katie Zenk is a student at the University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences where she is studying Animal Science. Katie grew up on a livestock farm and was involved with FFA throughout high school and also in college. In 2008-2009, Katie served as the Minnesota State FFA Vice President and credits the FFA for playing a pivotal role in her knowledge of agriculture.

Kristin Spinler is an Agriculture Education major at South Dakota State University. Kristin grew up on a grain farm and desires to educate the public on the multiple uses for corn. With her Agriculture Education degree, Kristin would like to work for the 4-H program with the University of Minnesota Extension Service or teach Agriculture Education. Kristin stays active on campus with Sigma Alpha Agricultural Sorority, SDSU Agriculture Education Club and National Honor Society to name a few.

Derek Mulhern grew up on a dairy and crop production farm and is currently a University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences student working towards a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education. Serving as the 2008-2009 Minnesota State FFA President and interning with the United States House Committee on Agriculture, Derek learned what issues are prevalent to our nation and how to effectively advocate for agriculture. Upon graduation, Derek will be pursuing a career as an Agriculture Education teacher where he will strive to teach others about the importance of agriculture.

Agvocates will be given opportunities to become actively involved with corn and agriculture, develop leadership, communication and advocacy skills through hands-on experiences and network with agricultural professionals. Among other benefits of the program, Agvocates will receive a $3000 scholarship. “We have four outstanding individuals representing MN Corn Growers for the next year advocating for agriculture. Their interactions with the public will help us corn growers tell our story to the public and be proactive about how agriculture is perceived by consumers,” said DeVonna Zeug, corn and soybean farmer from Walnut Grove and president of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association.