URBANDALE, Iowa — The North Central Poultry Association has announced Rand Fisher as the recipient of its Honorary Member Award. The award was presented to Fisher at the 52nd Annual Meeting awards banquet on Sept. 21, 2022, at the West Des Moines Iowa Marriott.
The Honorary Member Award is given in appreciation of service to the Iowa or Minnesota poultry and egg industries.
Rand served as president of the Iowa Area Development Group since 1997 where he played a key role in helping IADG establish economic development partnerships with numerous organizations, including the North Central Poultry Association.
“No ag organization has been more important than the Iowa Poultry Association (now NCPA) in helping IADG pursue its economic development mission for its members,” Fisher said.
Over the years, NCPA members contributed to expansion, diversification, and recruitment projects led by the IADG. Fisher, along with the IADG maintain a close relationship with NCPA through memberships, sponsorship, and involvement.
Fisher retired from the Iowa Area Development Group in December of 2021 after 25 years in the role.
“I am profoundly grateful for this recognition from the association. I accept this honor on behalf of my colleagues and all the utility sponsors of IADG whose support have helped make it possible,” Fisher said. “Most of all I want to thank all the members of the NCPA who have been so good to work with. Working together, we have enriched individuals, families, and our state with new opportunities and the hope of a brighter and better future.”
Fisher has served on numerous boards and represents IADG, cooperatives, and the economic development profession in various forums, and publications. He is also active in community-based philanthropy building and training. In 2003, IADG established a statewide community foundation where Rand volunteers his time as CEO of the foundation.
“Rand’s leadership and efforts in agricultural development over the last 25 years should be admired and appreciated by all. Rand has been a friend of the poultry and egg industries and his entire career has been spent making life better for Iowans, especially those in rural Iowa,” said Kevin Stiles, executive director of the North Central Poultry Association and Iowa Egg Council.
