Exhibitors

Jonathan Lawrence

Education Program Director, Iowa Farmers Union

Jonathan was born and raised in Lansing, MI, where he graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Business Management. Looking to build upon this degree, Jonathan pursued further education at Maharishi International University to explore the emerging field of sustainability. He soon discovered how interconnected agriculture is with the quality of our water, soil, air and overall environment, leading him to earn a degree in Regenerative Organic Agriculture & Sustainable Living.

The knowledge he gained from this program fueled his growing interest in local food systems and ultimately led to a position as a Value Chain Coordinator with the nonprofit Eat Greater Des Moines. Now serving as a Senior Value Chain Coordinator, Jonathan works extensively to support food security in rural southeast Iowa and develop local food programs that benefit Iowan producers by connecting them with opportunities to reach more people and markets.

This work has been pivotal, but Jonathan recognizes the importance of educating communities on why supporting local farmers is vital to the health and resilience of our communities. As the Education Program Director for Iowa Farmers Union, Jonathan will continue that mission while bringing greater focus to farmer-led issues.