Headlining the speaking faculty at this sixth annual event are Julie Anna Potts, executive vice president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, and Mely Romero Celis, undersecretary of rural development for Mexico.

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 11, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- As farmers, ranchers and the entire ag sector ready for the development of the 2018 U.S. farm bill, and the industry also strives to keep ag trade relations open across U.S. borders, the Women in Agribusiness Summit welcomes key speakers to present on these critical topics.

Headlining the speaking faculty at this sixth annual event are Julie Anna Potts, executive vice president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, and Mely Romero Celis, undersecretary of rural development for Mexico.

Potts will discuss the variables of the upcoming farm bill as well as the current administration's effect on the ag sector. "For the last several cycles, the farm bill has been increasingly challenging to pass because of budget pressures and changing demographics, as well as changing politics. What has not changed, however, is how important the farm bill is to a stable farm economy and food supply," she said.

In her presentation, Potts will touch upon the farm economy and the political realities and program issues to be addressed in this farm bill cycle.

Reaching across borders - state and diversity

As the first woman to be in the position of Undersecretary for Rural Development of the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA), Romero Celis has her focus on equality of opportunities and inclusion of women in the agricultural sector, as well as the development of the family and health. Previously a senator who followed her passion for public and legislative service, Romero Celis was invited by the President of Mexico to advance to the undersecretary position.

Romero Celis will address agricultural trade between Mexico and Minnesota and reflect on how Mexico and the U.S. can continue to improve its partnership in agriculture. Discussion will center on recognizing the contributions of women in the agri-food sector, better integrating the agricultural systems in the U.S. and Mexico, and improving conditions for those who work in the field.

More than 600 participants will gather at the Women in Agribusiness Summit, which has nurtured an agribusiness community where attendees express their opinions, learn from others and share best practices, all in support of women's advancement. This year's event will focus on the fact that success, regardless of one's gender, is attainable the more one 'Knows Their Business Better.' The Summit, hosted by HighQuest Group, will provide unparalleled networking opportunities with influential executives, spot-on professional development, and presentations on the latest trends, outlooks and innovations in ag.

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