WEST DES MOINES, IOWA - Dec. 6, 2013 - Farm and family are two vital components in Carol Miller's life. Miller works with her husband, Randy and their son, raising livestock, corn and beans on their farm outside of Ankeny. Her dedication to family and farming has earned her Iowa Farm Bureau's 2013 Woman in Agriculture honor, a yearly tribute that recognizes one woman who demonstrates outstanding leadership abilities in the promotion of agriculture. The announcement was made at the 95th Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) annual meeting in Des Moines on Dec. 4.
The award is another way for Miller to show other women interested in agriculture that farming is a viable and successful career path.
"Today, we have fewer farmers and fewer women make farming their primary career, especially since many choose to work off the farm for various reasons," said Miller. "I feel blessed that I could make farming and family the focus of my life and share that with others. Farm Bureau has given me the opportunity to participate in numerous programs and be a spokesperson for agriculture, providing farming information to the general public."
Miller has been an active participant on the Polk County Farm Bureau executive board and held every available position including: treasurer, secretary, vice president, president, and currently serves as voting delegate. In addition, Miller served as chair of the IFBF State Credentials Committee during the annual Summer Policy Conference and also served on the Sustainable Funding Conservation Committee. She is also a member of the Iowa Farm Bureau's Speaker Corps program and Ag Leaders Institute.
Farm safety is an important cause for Miller, and she works diligently with various groups to promote safety while striving to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities. In partnership with the Iowa State Patrol and Polk County Sheriff's Office, Miller founded the rural road safety program, 'Share the Road, Stay Alert and Stay Alive.' In an effort to bring more information to the general public and non-farmers, Miller has been instrumental in the 'Continuing Ag Information Series.' Miller also enjoys working with students and stays actively involved in Ag in the Classroom and the Dollars for Scholars program to provide students college scholarships.
Miller's award recognition includes a $250 cash prize and up to $500 to cover expenses for an Iowa conference for women.
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