Briggs And Green Lead Agriculture Excellence

By Scout Nelson

Leaders in agriculture and education were recognized on March 27 at the Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement banquet held at the Nebraska East Union. The event celebrated individuals whose work has made a strong impact on Nebraska’s agriculture and rural communities.

David Briggs and Ronnie Green were honored for their last contributions. Briggs, president and CEO of Western Cooperative Company and CEO of Sustainable Beef, has played a key role in strengthening agribusiness. Green, chancellor emeritus of the university, has supported education and research in agriculture.

“The Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement exists to recognize individuals whose leadership and dedication have advanced agriculture for the benefit of our state and beyond,” said Mark Gustafson, president of the organization.

Briggs has led WESTCO since 2000 and helped build it into a strong organization that serves producers across western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. The company has expanded to 17 locations and employs more than 200 people. As CEO of Sustainable Beef, he helped develop a $400 million beef processing facility in North Platte that began operations in 2025. This project has improved market access and created new opportunities for producers.

Green served as the university’s 20th chancellor from 2016 to 2023. He is known as an experienced animal scientist with work in breeding and genomics. His efforts in research and education have supported progress in agriculture at both local and global levels.

The event also recognized 12 new members who contributed to agriculture in many ways.
New Members Recognized for Statewide Impact:

• Belvidere: Gina Hudson
• Bridgeport: Kevin Hall, Tom Hayden
• Broken Bow: Jim Girardin Jr.
• Fullerton: Galen Frenzen
• Hartington: Edward Lammers
• Lakeside: Melody Benjamin
• Lincoln: Royce Schaneman, Charles Wortmann
• Minden: Duane Kristensen
• Mitchell: Peggy Wells
• York: Jenny (Rees) Brhel

Each inductee was honored for leadership, innovation, and long-term service. Founded in 1916, the organization continues to recognize those who support agriculture and bring positive changes to rural communities.

Photo Credit: nebraska-extension