Ag United for South Dakota Announces New Executive Director
Ag United for South Dakota has named Kelly Brandlee its new executive director. She began the role on October 1, succeeding Don Norton, who retired this fall.
Brandlee brings experience in agricultural communications, community engagement, and producer outreach, along with firsthand knowledge as a South Dakota farmer and agricultural business owner. She and her husband, Clint, farm near Pierpont, where they raise crops and Simmental-Angus cattle with their two daughters. The couple also operates Back Forty Beef, a direct-to-consumer beef business, and the Back Forty Beef Adventure Farm & Corn Maze.
Brandlee is a South Dakota State University graduate with a degree in communications and advertising. Her previous work includes roles with Ag United for South Dakota and the South Dakota Soybean Research & Promotion Council. She is also a graduate of South Dakota Agricultural and Rural Leadership Class VII. Returning to Ag United gives her the opportunity to build on her previous experience with the organization, officials said.
“South Dakota agriculture has an incredible story to tell, and I’m excited for the opportunity to help Ag United find new and meaningful ways to tell that story,” Brandlee said.
Ag United for South Dakota brings together agricultural groups to support farm and ranch families, strengthen rural communities, and connect agriculture with people across the state.
Brandlee said she looks forward to working with member organizations and farm and ranch families to find new ways to share agriculture’s stories and build connections with South Dakotans.