University News

Edward Breece, class of '54.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Dawn Driscoll, class of '00.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Mark Herrmann, class of ''83.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Jennifer Beard, class of '92.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Darrin Dodds, class of '99.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

WIU Celebrates Distinguished Agriculture Alums For 2025

January 28, 2025

Printer friendly version

MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University recognizes the outstanding achievements of its distinguished Agriculture (Ag) alumni, who have excelled in diverse fields and made significant contributions to the industry. The 2025 Distinguished Alumni Class includes Edward Breece, Dawn Driscoll, Mark Herrmann, Jennifer Beard and Darrin Dodds.

Breece began his academic journey at WIU in 1954, pursuing a degree in Agricultural Education. Due to a transfer agreement, he completed his bachelor's degree at the University of Illinois in 1958 and a master's degree in 1959. He taught agriculture at Elmwood and Cambridge high schools before joining WIU's School of Agriculture faculty in 1967. During his 31-year tenure, Breece served as department chair for 12 years and helped establish the Agricultural Education program. In 1970, he collaborated with students to launch the Ag Expo, which continues to thrive, celebrating its 53rd year in 2025.

Driscoll, a sixth-generation farmer, earned a bachelor's degree in Agronomy from WIU. At the university, she was active in multiple organizations, including Sigma Alpha and the Livestock Judging Team. Now residing in Iowa, she chairs the Iowa Senate Agriculture Committee and has successfully passed several agriculture-related bills, including the Meat Integrity Bill. Driscoll also actively supports her community through volunteer efforts.

Herrmann, a 1983 graduate in Agricultural Business, has built a career in agriculture and technology. As President and CEO of S&W Seed Company, he has advanced global seed industry initiatives. Herrmann previously held leadership roles at Monsanto and AgReliant Genetics, contributing to innovative advancements in agriculture.

Beard, a 1992 graduate in Agricultural Business, has demonstrated excellence in agricultural banking and leadership. Currently the president and chair of the board for Farmers State Bank in Elmwood, Beard has played a key role in empowering women in banking. She also serves as the secretary of WIU's School of Agriculture Advisory Board.

"My time at Western Illinois University was truly transformative. Being actively involved in various organizations and immersed in the Agriculture Department gave me invaluable experiences and knowledge. The department's hands-on learning opportunities and dedicated faculty prepared me for my career and helped lay the foundation for who I am today. WIU gave me the tools to grow, lead, and succeed," Beard said.

Dodds, a 1999 WIU graduate in Agriculture, is a professor and associate director at the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station at Mississippi State University. He has authored numerous research publications, secured significant grants and engaged in international collaborations to improve agriculture and food security.

"The roots of where I am today begin at Western Illinois University. I have often told folks, that one phone call can change the course of your life. Dr. Gordon Roskamp made that phone call for me in the fall of 1998 and that was the first step to continuing my education and being presented opportunities I never thought possible. Throughout my career, I have tried to pay forward the blessings that I was given by Dr. Roskamp and Western Illinois University," Dodds said.

These distinguished alumni reflect the excellence of WIU's School of Agriculture and the impact of its programs on the agriculture industry.

For more information about WIU's School of Agriculture, visit wiu.edu/ag.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing