2025 Year in Review
As we close out another year, we’re reflecting on the progress we made in 2025. From new leadership to innovative research and grassroots advocacy, Tennessee Corn has been hard at work to ensure our growers' voices are heard and their operations are supported.
Here are just a few key highlights from this year:
Welcoming New Leadership
This year, we welcomed several new leaders to the Tennessee Corn Promotion Board (TCPB), including Amy McNeil as the new Executive Director. Jonathan Tosh, Robert Thompson, and Corbin Neas were appointed by Commissioner Hatcher to the TCPB board, bringing fresh perspectives and broadening our statewide presentation. We were also excited to welcome Willis Jepson, an 8th-generation farmer from Robertson County, who brings extensive agricultural experience to the board.
Ben Gilbert presents the Agriscience Fair Results at the Tennessee FFA State Convention.
Investing in Research
Four Tennessee universities received checkoff-supported grants to explore solutions in weed and disease management and increasing production efficiency. These research projects are laying the groundwork for more sustainable farming practices tailored to Tennessee growers’ unique challenges.
Supporting the Next Generation
We continued to invest in youth development through FFA, 4-H, Tennessee Ag in the Classroom, and Agricenter International. Our commitment to ag education is fostering the next generation of farmers, advocates, and ag leaders across our state.
Educating Consumers Through “Fueled By Corn”
Our “Fueled By Corn” campaign helped bridge the gap between the farm and the fuel pump, educating consumers on ethanol’s benefits and how corn fuels daily life. With video ads and digital content, the campaign continues to build awareness of corn-based fuel and other products.
Advocating for Corn Growers on Capitol Hill
Tennessee corn leaders took their voices to Washington, D.C., advocating for the Farm Bill, ethanol expansion, the Next Generation Fuels Act, and export market growth. More than 100 Tennessee advocates joined the push for year-round E15, showcasing the power of grassroots support.
Rob Holman, President of the Tennessee Corn Growers Association, represented Tennessee at Corn Congress in Denver, where he led the passage of a resolution extending benefits for beginning farmers.
Testifying for Crop Protection
Tennessee corn growers testified in support of HB809/SB527, the Crop Protection Liability bill. Alongside virtual calls, sending newsletters, and congressional outreach, this effort highlighted our work in defending farmers’ access to vital crop protection tools. The legislation is deferred until early 2026.
Authoring the First State Resolutions Policy Book
Under the leadership of Rob Holman, Tennessee corn growers presented their first official State Resolutions Policy Book, which will ensure grower voices are represented in policy decisions.
Fueling Ethanol Engine Research
In an effort to increase ethanol demand, Tennessee Corn invested in research at Clemson University focused on developing ethanol-fueled engines for agricultural equipment. This collaboration with John Deere and other state corn organizations is putting your checkoff dollars to work for the future of farm innovation.
2025 was a year of progress. Thank you for your continued support and for being part of the Tennessee Corn community!