LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Farm Bureau welcomes Grant Wilson and Hanan Southard to the staff as summer interns. During the 12-week program, the interns will gain professional experience while learning more about Arkansas agriculture and the role that Arkansas Farm Bureau plays in the state.

Wilson will share his time between three departments: organization and member programs, public affairs and government relations, and commodity and regulatory affairs. Wilson, the son of Tim and Sharon Wilson of Mountain View, is a senior at Arkansas State University studying agricultural business with an emphasis in economics. His father is a Farm Bureau agent for Stone County.  

“I chose Farm Bureau because they play such an important role in the ag community, from the local level all the way to the national level,” Wilson said. “I’ve been around Farm Bureau my entire life because my dad has worked for Farm Bureau for more than 20 years. I’m excited to have a chance to learn hands-on how Farm Bureau works.”

Southard is the intern for the public relations department. Southard, the daughter of Rodney and Lisa Southard of Rolla, Mo., is a graduate student at the University of Arkansas studying agricultural and extension education with an emphasis in agricultural communications.

“I am incredibly honored to spend my summer with Arkansas Farm Bureau,” Southard said. “To be immersed in the organization that epitomizes agricultural advocacy will surely be a valuable experience.” 

Wilson will be working with the outreach and member programs division to assist county Farm Bureaus across the state and will participate in both state and federal policy development for the organization. Southard will assist with a variety of Arkansas Farm Bureau publications and summer activities as well as contribute to social media efforts.

Grant Wilson

Hanan Southard