Preventing and Responding to Farm Emergencies: an ER Nurse's Guide

Katie Hammock is an experienced Emergency Room nurse with six years of dedicated service at a Level 1 Trauma Center in southern Virginia. A resident of Museville, Virginia, Katie lives on a dairy farm with her husband and toddler son. Witnessing the devastating consequences of farm accidents firsthand, Katie is driven by a deep passion to merge her expertise in emergency medicine with her love for agriculture.

Katie's workshops equips individuals with key tools regarding pre-hospital first aid, providing valuable tips and tricks to increase confidence in emergency situations. Through sharing real-life stories and firsthand experiences, Katie empowers individuals with the knowledge and preparedness necessary to navigate critical situations and minimize the impact of farm-related injuries.

From Farm to Future: Strengthening Our Voices in Agriculture

Val Lavigne is a passionate advocate for the dairy industry, a seasoned communicator, and the host of The Dairy Hour Podcast. With a deep-rooted love for agriculture, she uses her platform to share the real stories behind dairy farming, educate consumers, and empower those within the industry. Beyond advocacy, Val is an integral part of her family’s 170-cow dairy farm in Schaghticoke, NY, where she works alongside her husband and parents. She manages the dairy herd, handles bookkeeping, and helps run the family’s catering business and food truck. In addition, she has embraced homeschooling her three children, cherishing the extra time with them while instilling the values of farm life. Val is also deeply involved in industry leadership. She serves as a Director for the National Dairy Board, Dairy Management Inc., and American Dairy Association North East. As a member of the Farmer Relations Committee, she plays a vital role in connecting farmers with checkoff programs that educate the public and promote the dairy industry. She is also active in Agri-Mark Inc.’s ALEC Committee and Sustainable Farms Committee, contributing to the future of dairy farming in the North East and the co-op. Through the Young Cooperators program—both within her co-op and at the national level—Val is dedicated to mentoring young farmers and encouraging women in agriculture to take on leadership roles and make a difference. With a passion for bridging the gap between farmers and consumers, Val uses her voice to inspire confidence, encourage involvement, and empower the next generation of dairy leaders. Join her as she shares insights on effective agricultural communication, building confidence in fellow farmers, and reaching for new heights in the industry. Connect with Val: www.dairygalval.com | @DairyGalVal

Hard Things Are Worth Doing

Hallie is a 5th-generation family farmer from Northwest Ohio, where she and her husband, Kyle, manage a diversified farming operation that includes beef cattle, corn, soybeans, and wheat. As a graduate of Oklahoma State University and a dedicated advocate for family and community well-being, Hallie brings a wealth of lived experience to her speaking engagements.

Hallie and Kyle are proud adoptive parents of Kaiser (5) and Kamila (1). They are committed to creating a non-traditional family rooted in openness, resilience, and authenticity. Hallie emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong, healthy relationships with her children’s birth families and navigating open adoption dynamics with grace and respect.

In her presentation, Hallie speaks candidly on the theme of "Hard Things Are Worth Doing." She explores the courage required to navigate both the challenges and triumphs of growing and preserving her family against the odds. By sharing her experiences of rural resiliency, she offers practical insights and encouragement for others on similar paths.

Hallie’s story is a powerful testament to the importance of authenticity, adaptability, and intentional living. Her commitment to challenging generational expectations and societal pressures serves as an inspiring example of transformation and strength in both family and community life.

Empowering Women in Agriculture: A blue print plan to taking action in animal agriculture and meat processing