Skip to main content
gear that supports farmers worldwide
Golden wheat field at sunrise
Global Farmer Network

GFN Kleckner Global Farm Leader Award

Recognizing Excellence in Global Agricultural Leadership

About the Award

Honoring a Legacy of Agricultural Leadership

Dean Kleckner was a founding board member of the Global Farmer Network and a dedicated Iowa farmer whose passion for agriculture spanned decades. As a visionary leader, he championed the rights of farmers worldwide and worked tirelessly to connect agricultural communities across borders.

The GFN Kleckner Global Farm Leader Award was established in his honor following his passing, to recognize agricultural leaders who embody the same spirit of excellence, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the global farming community that Dean demonstrated throughout his remarkable career.

Each year, the award is presented to a farmer who has made exceptional contributions to agricultural advocacy, demonstrating leadership that transcends borders and inspires the next generation of farming leaders.

“Farmers are the backbone of every society. When we support farmers, we support the foundation upon which all human progress is built.”

Dean Kleckner

Founding GFN Board Member & Iowa Farmer