By Andi Anderson
The Agribusiness Council of Indiana (ACI) has announced that Melissa Rekeweg will become its new president and chief executive officer in October. Rekeweg’s appointment marks a significant step forward for Indiana’s agricultural industry as she brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in agriculture, education, policy, and organizational management.
Most recently, Rekeweg served as managing director of the National Council for Agricultural Education, where she directed nationwide initiatives in agricultural education, strategic planning, governance, and partnerships.
Her career also includes senior leadership roles at the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, where she managed a $4.2 million agency, chaired statewide agricultural councils, and represented Indiana in national policy discussions.
In addition, she has held key positions with the National FFA Organization, AgriNovus Indiana, and the Indiana Department of Education, as well as in the state’s financial and education sectors. This broad background gives her a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Indiana agribusiness.
“Melissa’s breadth of experience, from state government to national organizations, paired with her lifelong dedication to Indiana agriculture, makes her the ideal person to lead ACI into its next chapter,” said Brett Jones, chair of the ACI board of directors.
As president and CEO, Rekeweg will guide ACI’s work in supporting Indiana’s grain, feed, seed, plant food, and agricultural chemical industries.
Her mission includes fostering collaboration across the supply chain and strengthening the state’s reputation as a national leader in agriculture.
“I’m honored to join ACI and build on its strong legacy of service to Indiana agribusiness,” Rekeweg said. “Working together with our members and partners, we can strengthen the state’s agricultural economy and secure a strong future for the agribusiness sector.”
An Indiana native, Rekeweg holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from Purdue University, a master’s in management and leadership from Western Governors University, and a certificate in nonprofit executive leadership from Indiana University. She is also a graduate of the Indiana Agricultural Leadership Program.
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Categories: Indiana, Business