U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins discussed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) work with states to expand domestic farmers’ and ranchers’ market access and the agency’s recently announced Stand-Up Program, which will provide up to $50 million to help states join or expand state meat inspection programs.

NASDA CEO Ted McKinney also highlighted the Data on Economic and Bankruptcy Trends (DEBT) Project, a new resource developed by NASDA and the National Agricultural Law Center. According to NASDA, the project provides information intended to support a more comprehensive understanding of industry bankruptcy trends across the U.S.

Additionally, NASDA elected Washington State Department of Agriculture Director Derek Sandison as its 2026–2027 President, and named its incoming Board of Directors and Policy Committee leadership. Mr. Sandison succeeded Amanda Beal, the Maine Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry.

NASDA also announced its 2026 Honor Award recipients and staff awards, recognizing employees of state departments of agriculture and NASDA staff:

• Associate Director of Public Policy Logan Moss received the Outstanding NASDA Staff Award
• ADM received NASDA’s Public-Private Partnership Award
• NASDA Foundation Senior Director of Food Safety Programs Joe Reardon was recognized for 10 years of service with the organization
• NASDA Associate Director of Grants and Finance Ellen Roth was recognized for five years of service.

Finally, NASDA welcomed 17 students from its 2026 Next Generation cohort to the meeting. The students participated in discussions with agricultural policy and industry leaders, developed professional connections, and attended state and federal policy discussions.