Kansas City, MO — February 23, 2026 — Three new industry leaders were appointed to the National AFA Alliance Advisory Council (NAAAC) – a dynamic group of alumni leaders who help strengthen and expand the Agriculture Future of America (AFA) network. Joining the team is Kate Jaeger, Michael Carlson and Luke Altermatt.
“I am looking forward to serving on AFA NAAAC to build bridges and community between professionals across the industry,” said Altermatt. “Having personally experienced AFA programs and striving to live out the mission of AFA daily energizes me for the future of the agricultural industry!”
NAAAC plays a pivotal role in fostering lifelong relationships, giving back to the AFA community and encouraging continuous growth among alumni. Council members support the NAAAC mission by cultivating alumni engagement opportunities and connecting professionals with AFA’s broader vision for leadership development in agriculture, food and natural resources.
Other members of NAAAC include: Mark Avilla (chair), Amanda Martin (Vice-Chair), Loren King, Max Hagaman, Elizabeth Gunter, Sydney Smith and Nick Tarleton.
About Agriculture Future of America (AFA)
AFA builds bridges for young leaders to foster engagement and innovation in food and agriculture through premier leader and career development experiences. With program participation increasing 28% in the last five years, AFA has provided 26,000 leader development experiences to college leaders and young professionals from more than 200 colleges and universities throughout 43 states since its inception in 1996. AFA has awarded more than $11.5 million in academic and leader development scholarships. For more information about AFA, visit agfuture.org.