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Jill Vigesaa Honored with Inaugural Legacy of the Land Award
North Dakota Farm Bureau Foundation recognizes lifetime of agricultural advocacy and education
Mar. 24, 2026 at 5:46pm
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The North Dakota Farm Bureau Foundation has named Jill Vigesaa as the first-ever recipient of the Legacy of the Land Award, honoring her lifetime of work connecting people with agriculture through leadership, education, and service.
Why it matters
Vigesaa's recognition highlights the importance of investing in agricultural education and leadership to ensure the industry's future. Her innovative approach to engaging diverse audiences, from students to the general public, has left a lasting impact on communities across North Dakota.
The details
Raised on a farm near Lakota, Vigesaa has dedicated her career to promoting agricultural education and understanding. She has worked with organizations like the Foster County Soil Conservation District, TREES program, and Project Food, Land & People, while also founding initiatives like Women's Ag Day and bringing interactive Breakout Boxes to classrooms. Vigesaa is known for her ability to make agriculture relatable and relevant to people of all ages and backgrounds.
- The Legacy of the Land Award was presented to Vigesaa on March 13, 2026 during the North Dakota Farm Bureau Foundation's Spring Harmony Gala in Fargo.
- Vigesaa has been a lifelong advocate for agricultural education and outreach, with a career spanning decades of work in North Dakota.
The players
Jill Vigesaa
The first-ever recipient of the North Dakota Farm Bureau Foundation's Legacy of the Land Award, Vigesaa has dedicated her career to connecting people with agriculture through leadership, education, and service.
North Dakota Farm Bureau Foundation
The organization that created the Legacy of the Land Award to honor individuals whose work helps ensure agriculture remains strong for generations to come.
Claire Vigesaa
Jill Vigesaa's husband, with whom she has built a life centered on agriculture and family.
What they’re saying
“Jill's ability to connect agriculture to people of all ages and backgrounds is truly remarkable. Her passion and dedication have left a lasting imprint on our communities and the future of agriculture in North Dakota.”
— Jeffrey Missling, NDFB Executive Vice President and CEO
What’s next
The Legacy of the Land Award will continue to be presented annually by the North Dakota Farm Bureau Foundation to honor individuals who have made a lasting impact on agriculture through their leadership, education, and service.
The takeaway
Jill Vigesaa's recognition as the inaugural recipient of the Legacy of the Land Award underscores the vital role that agricultural education and advocacy play in ensuring the industry's future. Her innovative approach and tireless efforts to connect people with agriculture have left an indelible mark on communities across North Dakota.
