Mark Stewart

CEO on a mission to connect industry with the next generation of food and ag leaders

Platte City, Missouri, United States

About

I get to work for people I care about every day. As the President and CEO of Agriculture Future of America (AFA), I'm fortunate to spend a lot of time in my passion — understanding the values of college students and industry professionals in the food, agriculture and natural resources industries and building bridges to connect those values. I’m energized by developing the future leaders of these industries, and amplifying the voices of students to advocate for their wants, needs and desires as they enter the workforce. Day to day, I lead AFA team with dynamic leadership to propel the organization to short and long-term growth. This looks like guiding strategic initiatives and building a culture where we put people first, focus on the big picture and approach everything with a youthful spirit. In my six years as CEO, I have led AFA to: - Increase student participation by more than 28% - Expand organizational budget by 25% - Integrate a comprehensive Diversity, Equity and Inclusion model - Build a strategic plan focused on diversifying funds and participation - Strengthen brand reputation and awareness - Craft a lifelong organization for alumni I enjoy meeting new people, building relationships and hearing new perspectives. Reach out if you want to chat about developing top talent, workforce needs or the future of agriculture. Professional Skills Strategic Planning | Executive Leadership | Non-Profit Development | Financial Management | Training & Coaching | Planned Giving | | Event Management | Communication | Inclusivity | Critical Thinking |Time Management

Experience

  • Agriculture Future of America (15 yrs 1 mo)
    • Chief Executive Officer
      Mar 2017 - Present · 9 yrs 4 mos

    • President
      Apr 2015 - Feb 2017 · 1 yr 11 mos

    • Vice President, Development and Communications
      Jun 2011 - Mar 2015 · 3 yrs 10 mos

  • Director of Development and Communications at Don Bosco Center
    Feb 2009 - Jun 2011 · 2 yrs 5 mos

  • Vice President at Hartsook Companies, Inc.
    2008 - 2009 · 1 yr

  • Executive Director of Development at Avila University
    Sep 2007 - Jan 2008 · 5 mos

  • Development Officer - Athletics at Northwest Missouri State University
    Sep 2004 - Sep 2007 · 3 yrs 1 mo