The Rural Impact Awards are proud to announce the 2024 recipients of the prestigious Rural Legacy Builders and Rural Trailblazers awards, celebrating extraordinary individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, dedication, and resilience in rural America.
This year, 16 Rural Legacy Builders were recognized for their outstanding contributions to agriculture, rural industries, and community development. These individuals, nominated by their peers and selected by a distinguished panel of judges, have made a lasting impact on rural America through leadership, innovation, and service. The award honors individuals over the age of 30 who are making significant strides in their respective fields.
The Rural Trailblazers category highlights the achievements of exceptional young leaders under the age of 30 who are pioneering new paths in rural communities. These future-focused innovators are shaping the next generation of rural industries and strengthening the fabric of rural America.
2024 Rural Legacy Builders Honorees:
- Amanda Radke, Mitchell, South Dakota: Amanda inspires audiences nationwide with her heartfelt storytelling and advocacy for agriculture, sharing the values and traditions of the ranching lifestyle.
- Cari Rincker, Shelbyville, Illinois: A nationally recognized attorney, author, and speaker, Cari bridges agriculture and family law, offering vital resources to farmers and rural families across the nation.
- Dr. David Faber, Sioux Center, Iowa: As founder and CEO of TransOva Genetics, Dr. Faber is a pioneer of cattle reproductive technologies. His technologies have improved the reproductive technologies of beef cattle herds at a global level.
- Dr. Marissa Hake, Edon, Ohio: Marissa is a veterinarian, wife, and mother who shares about agriculture and how food is raised.
- Jessie Jarvis, King Hill, Idaho: Jessie is a third-generation rancher, podcast host, and CEO of Of The West, dedicated to fostering job creation and business development in rural America.
- Keith and Tessa Bowman, Dodge City, Kansas: Keith and Tessa are committed feedlot owners who play a vital role in supporting the cattle industry in Kansas.
- Kylie Epperson, Vandalia, Missouri: Kylie is an inspiring speaker and advocate for rural farm women, sharing her expertise to empower others in agriculture.
- Nathan Tudor, Monroeville, Alabama: Nathan is a champion of rural healthcare, working tirelessly to improve access and services in underserved areas.
- Shane and Tonya Meier, Stonewall, Texas. Shane and Tonya have significantly contributed to agriculture by developing the youth livestock show sector, inspiring the next generation.
- Steve and Julie French, Beaverton, Michigan: Steve and Julie are Angus and Shorthorn breeders who support new breeders and strengthen youth agricultural programs across rural America.
- Tara VanderDussen, Portales, New Mexico. Tara, an environmental scientist, dairy farmer, and podcast host, is a leading advocate for sustainability and agricultural education.
- Tim Cox, Bloomfield, New Mexico. Tim is a celebrated Western artist whose works beautifully capture the essence of ranching and rural life.
- Ty deCordova, Groesbeck, Texas. Ty is an innovative leader in livestock marketing technologies, transforming how ranching operations connect and grow.
- Woody and Tamela Folsom, Baxley, Georgia. Woody and Tamela Folsom are dedicated farmers, ranchers, and entrepreneurs, building the local food movement and fostering strong community ties.














2024 Rural Trailblazers Honorees:
- Adrian Austin, Brenham, Texas: Blinn College Livestock Judging Team Coach and Agricultural Program Recruiter, inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
- Ally Spears, Kurten, Texas: Host of the AgChicks Podcast, giving a voice to rural women and agriculturalists.
- Lauren Thomas, Lyford, Texas: Agri-science teacher and cattle rancher, educating and mentoring future agriculturalists.
- Tucker Teague, Hamlin, Texas: Rancher, entrepreneur, and community leader dedicated to improving rural economic opportunities.
- Tyler Schuster, Bracketville, Texas: Rancher, development officer, podcaster, and speaker, inspiring growth in rural industries.





The Rural Impact Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the individuals and families who make rural America a thriving and resilient cornerstone of the nation. These leaders represent the diverse industries, values, and dreams that are the backbone of rural communities.
Ranch House Designs, sponsors of this awards program, will award more than $30,000 in awards and prizes to the winners of this program as part of their commitment to building brands in rural America. For more information about the awards and the incredible stories of this year’s honorees, visit www.ranchhousedesigns.com.