Photos: 2026 Annual Meeting

Last Thursday was the 2026 ISPFMRA Annual Meeting. We had excellent sessions and a keynote speaker along with a scholarship auction. Everyone in attendance enjoyed catching up with fellow farm managers and rural appraisers from across the state. If you want to learn more about how ISPFMRA delivers the best resources for Illinois farm managers and rural appraisers, ask a member for more information or send us a message!

Maria Boerngen, Ph.D., at right, at Illinois State University, Normal, IL, receives a plaque marking her being named to the Service to Illinois Agriculture Award by the ISPFMRA from Elizabeth Strom, immediate past president of the organization. In presenting the award, Strom cited Boerngen’s dedication to teaching farm management courses at ISU and her involvement with managing a chapter scholarship program for 2-year campus students who are moving into 4-year academic programs at the state’s larger campuses. Boerngen serves as the academic vice president for the Society.

New leadership was formally installed during the meeting, marking a transition at the top of the organization. Laura Enger of Farm Credit Illinois was elected president of the Society. Enger, a member since 2009, previously served in vice president roles before being elected to lead the chapter. She will be joined by a leadership team that includes officers from private practice, academia, and the University of Illinois.

The Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, founded in 1928 at the University of Illinois, is the oldest and largest state chapter in the nation. The organization will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2028, with special events and commemorations planned as the milestone approaches.