Meet the ISA Government Relations Team

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Government Relations team is dedicated to advocating for Illinois’ 43,000 soybean farmers. Below, you’ll meet this dynamic team of experts, learn about their efforts to support your interests and discover their passion for serving the needs of Illinois farmers.

Andrew Larson, Director of Government Relations & Strategy

In his role, Larson manages ISA policy goals, state and federal governmental affairs, biodiesel programs and organizational strategy.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“Building a career in agriculture policy has been a journey I didn’t expect. What really stands out is the knowledge and depth of expertise on so many topics that exist within ag organizations, companies, universities and more. Farmers have tons of highly skilled and passionate people working for them each day.

We don’t always see these people firsthand, but they are engaging in improving farm policy, developing ways to improve local bridges and infrastructure, and advancing global efforts to sell Illinois ag products in countries we might never think of. In government relations and ag policy, we get to interact on all these topics. Leading our team, I see intense passion and energy in our staff engaging in their life’s work on behalf of farmers. It is a huge honor to lead our policy efforts and drive to make an impact for Illinois farmers,” said Larson.

David Kubik, Biofuels & Trade Policy Manager

Kubik’s focus areas include biofuels political strategy, transportation, trade and taxes. Notably, Kubik led the B20 initiative, which resulted in extended tax exemptions for biodiesel blends over 10 percent and an increase to 20 percent.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“I work every day to ensure both federal and state policymakers enact policies that will expand markets for Illinois soybeans. Whether it’s domestic biofuel markets, expanding trade deals in Southeast Asia or improving lock and dam infrastructure at home, it’s important that Illinois soybean producers protect markets they already serve and expand to new markets as we face new challenges in our industry,” said Kubik.

Ashley Barry, Engagement Manager

Barry focuses on connecting with farmers to ensure they stay informed on policies impacting their daily lives. She manages ISA’s Voice for Soy network, hosts various events and oversees the Illinois Soybean Growers Political Action Committee (ISG PAC).

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“In my role, I help make the voices of farmers at the negotiation table influential. I have the chance to offer farmers something through ISA that they previously did not have the ability to open doors, allowing them to establish new relationships with legislators in Illinois and across the nation. This, to me, is not only meaningful but also impactful when we’re advocating on a variety of issues and when our farmers go to the negotiating table,” said Barry.

Andrew Larson, Director of Government Relations & Strategy

David Kubik, Biofuels & Trade Policy Manager

Ashley Barry, Engagement Manager

Collin Cisco, Farm Policy Manager

In his role, Cisco works to assist farmers and ISA in building strategic relationships and shaping policy positions with lawmakers.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“Our farmers work tirelessly to feed the world, often on increasingly tight margins. It’s our responsibility to help alleviate their financial and regulatory burdens. Illinois soybean farmers are crucial in feeding and moving the world, and we’re passionate about protecting their right to farm,” said Cisco.

Corey Lacey, Ph.D., Environmental Policy Manager

Lacey plays a crucial role in supporting Illinois soybean farmers through his role. His focus areas include pesticide and biotech regulation, conservation policy, climate-smart commodities and agri-environmental issues.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“In my role, I have the opportunity to advocate for Illinois farmers by ensuring their voices are heard during discussions on complex policy issues at local, state and federal levels. It’s important to help farmers stay informed about ever-changing policies and ensure they can make informed decisions for their operations,” said Lacey.

Ashley Rice-Haddon, Environmental Policy Specialist

Rice-Haddon is the newest member of the team and focuses her time on advocating for soybean farmers on conservation and environmental policy issues.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“As the Environmental Policy Specialist, I focus on two active issues that directly impact Illinois soybean farmers: the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy and Carbon Markets. With my passion for agriculture policy and communications, I work to understand the intricacies of these issues so I can better represent Illinois farmers in both Springfield and Washington, D.C.,” said Rice-Haddon.

Collin Cisco, Farm Policy Manager

Corey Lacey, Ph.D., Environmental Policy Manager

Ashley Rice-Haddon, Environmental Policy Specialist

Matt Johnston, Government Relations Coordinator

Through his focus on legislative outreach, education and advocacy, Johnston strives to support Illinois farmers and coordinates efforts to educate and engage elected officials throughout the state.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“As ISA’s Government Relations Coordinator, I am deeply passionate about serving the soybean growers of Illinois. Growing up in rural Illinois, I saw firsthand the work and dedication that farmers pour into their fields every day. Today, my work allows me to make sure policymakers understand the vital role farmers play in our state as well as country,” said Johnston.

Gracie Scheets, External Relations Coordinator

In her role, Scheets concentrates on legislative outreach, education and advocacy to
support Illinois farmers. She coordinates efforts to educate and engage elected officials throughout the state.

Why are you passionate about serving Illinois soybean farmers?

“My passion for this work comes from a lifelong connection to agriculture. Engaging with farmers is one of the most important aspects of my job, as it not only informs my work but also ensures that their voices are heard in policy discussions. My commitment to supporting Illinois farmers drives me every day, and I’m dedicated to making a positive impact both professionally and on our family farm,” said Scheets.

Matt Johnston, Government Relations Coordinator

Gracie Scheets, External Relations Coordinator