Sanderson Farms recently started a new series called “Women in Agriculture.” Each week, for a month, the company will spotlight on its corporate blog and social media sites a woman who works with the company.
Women are engaged in every aspect of the agriculture industry, as farmers, scientists, veterinarians, and more. However, often these stories are not told. With its new “Women in Agriculture,” Sanderson Farms seeks to change that narrative, highlighting the valuable contributions these individuals make to the industry. The first woman featured was Christie Harrison, a farmer in Collins, Mississippi.
“The industry is mostly men and, years ago, you didn’t hear much about women farmers; but that’s changing,” Harrison said. “Women are natural nurturers, and that’s a strength when it comes to growing chickens.”
“We have so many intelligent, dedicated women making a difference through their positions here at Sanderson Farms,” said Hilary Burroughs, Sanderson Farms director of marketing. “It is our hope that their stories will educate and even inspire others to pursue careers in agriculture.”
Other upcoming features of Sanderson Farms women include Alicia Walker, corporate quality control auditor; Dr. Amy Batal, corporate nutritionist; and Dr. Marty Ewing, director of technical services.
According to the most recent Census of Agriculture, 31 percent of American farmers are female.
