Four Honored as 2025 “Torch of Leadership” Awardees

Four distinguished agricultural professionals have been selected to receive the prestigious “Torch of Leadership” award, presented by the Alumni Association of the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation (IALF). The awards will be presented during a celebration on Friday, August 22, 2025, at DESTIHL Brewery in Normal, Illinois.

The honorees for 2025 are: 

·         Heather Hampton+Knodle, Fillmore, IL 

·         Matt McClelland, Edwardsville, IL 

·         Penny Lauritzen, Lanark, IL 

·         Lary Eckert, Belleville, IL 

Heather Hampton+Knodle – Agricultural Producer 

A lifelong advocate for rural advancement, Heather has combined leadership in agriculture, technology, and economic development. Heather farms with her family in Montgomery County, where they grow row crops and raise Angus cattle. She has served as founding chair of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation and the Montgomery CEO program and is a past President of American Agri-Women. Her leadership has elevated broadband deployment efforts, with national impact through her role on the FCC Precision Ag Task Force. A proud alumna of the IALP Class of 1998, Heather's multifaceted contributions span from public policy to youth mentorship.  

Matt McClelland – Agribusiness Professional 

From loading trucks as a high schooler to becoming CEO of Prairie Farms Dairy, Matt McClelland’s story is rooted in humble beginnings and bold vision. Under his leadership, Prairie Farms has grown into a $4.6 billion dairy cooperative supporting over 600 farm families. Known for his commitment to innovation, Matt has led initiatives in product development and industry policy while serving on national boards such as MilkPEP and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. He is an alumnus of the IALP Class of 2010. 

Penny Lauritzen – Agribusiness Professional 

A trailblazer in farm management and real estate, Penny Lauritzen forged a path in a male-dominated field, becoming the first female president of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. She is a 1986 graduate of the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program and has spent her career advancing agriculture through outreach, leadership, and education. Her founding of Women Changing the Face of

Agriculture has connected over 7,000 young women to ag careers, shaping the next generation of female leaders in the industry. 

Lary Eckert – Agricultural Producer 

As the fifth generation to lead Eckert’s Orchard in Belleville, Illinois, Lary Eckert has expanded the family business into a thriving agri-tourism and retail enterprise. He has championed agriculture through hands-on education, hosting IALF classes and welcoming thousands of schoolchildren annually. His civic engagement is equally remarkable, with service on the Federal Reserve Bank Advisory Council, numerous community boards, and as a past president of several agriculture organizations. A graduate of the IALP Class of 1984, Lary embodies the spirit of servant leadership. 

The “Torch of Leadership” award is presented biennially to Illinois agricultural leaders who exemplify personal commitment, vision, and excellence in service to agriculture. Recipients are selected by the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Alumni Association. 

Rob Sharkey, agricultural advocate, media personality, and graduate of the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program, will serve as emcee for the event.

To attend the event, please register by August 15 at agleadership.org/torch-leadership-award. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for individuals or organizations who wish to support the celebration. 

 For media inquiries or additional information, contact: Nicole Solberg – leaders@agleadership.org