National Wheat Growers Association Elects New President

Jamie Kress, an Idaho farmer, takes the helm of the influential agriculture group

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:23pm

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The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) has elected Jamie Kress, an Idaho farmer, as its new president during the organization's 2026 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. Kress and her husband Cory own and operate an 8,500-acre dryland farm in eastern Idaho, growing a variety of crops including winter and spring wheat, canola, safflower, and chickpeas. Kress previously served as president of the Idaho Grain Producers Association and has held multiple leadership roles within NAWG.

Why it matters

As the new president of NAWG, Kress will be a key voice advocating for the interests of wheat growers across the United States at a critical time for the agriculture industry. Her election marks the first time a woman has led the influential national organization.

The details

In her new role, Kress said she is committed to leading NAWG with "collaboration and purpose" to elevate the voice of wheat growers in Washington, D.C. and advance policies that empower producers. The NAWG Board of Directors also elected new officers, including Nathan Keane of Montana as Vice President, Chris Tanner of Kansas as Treasurer, and Auston Andersen of Colorado as Secretary.

  • The NAWG 2026 Annual Conference took place in Washington, D.C. on January 30, 2026.
  • Jamie Kress and the new NAWG officers will start their terms on February 27, 2026, following the conclusion of the 2026 Commodity Classic in San Antonio, TX.

The players

Jamie Kress

The new president of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG). Kress and her husband Cory own and operate an 8,500-acre dryland farm in eastern Idaho, growing a variety of crops including winter and spring wheat, canola, safflower, and chickpeas. Kress previously served as president of the Idaho Grain Producers Association and has held multiple leadership roles within NAWG.

National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG)

A national organization that represents the interests of wheat growers across the United States.

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What they’re saying

“It is an honor to serve as president of NAWG at such a pivotal time for agriculture. I am inspired by the resilience and innovation of wheat growers across the country, and I am committed to leading with collaboration and purpose. Together, we will elevate our voice in Washington, advance policies that empower producers, and secure a strong, sustainable future for nation's farmers and rural communities.”

— Jamie Kress, President, National Association of Wheat Growers (americanagnetwork.com)

“Jamie Kress is a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing wheat growers today. Her vision, integrity, and talent for bringing people together will set NAWG up for long-term success and a bigger impact. Looking ahead, we're confident that Jamie's leadership will help the association grow stronger, more united, and a more influential voice for wheat growers across the country.”

— Sam Kieffer (americanagnetwork.com)

What’s next

The new NAWG officers, including President Jamie Kress, will officially begin their terms on February 27, 2026, following the conclusion of the 2026 Commodity Classic in San Antonio, TX.

The takeaway

The election of Jamie Kress as the first female president of the influential National Association of Wheat Growers signals a shift towards greater diversity and representation in agricultural leadership. Her commitment to collaboration and empowering wheat producers across the country positions NAWG to be a stronger, more unified voice for the industry.