Jim Mintert, a long-standing leader in agricultural economics and a passionate advocate for farmers, has been named Indiana’s 2025 Honorary Master Farmer. The recognition comes from Indiana Prairie Farmer in collaboration with the Purdue University College of Agriculture. This prestigious award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Indiana agriculture through leadership, innovation, and dedicated service.
Mintert recently retired as director of Purdue’s Center for Commercial Agriculture, capping off a distinguished career spanning more than four decades. He began his journey in agriculture after earning degrees from Purdue University and the University of Missouri. His early career included a role as a farm manager with Northern Trust Co., followed by 23 years as an Extension economist at Kansas State University, where he specialized in livestock marketing and farm management.
In 2009, Mintert returned to Purdue University, where he took on several leadership roles in Extension before helping to establish and lead the Center for Commercial Agriculture. One of his most notable achievements at Purdue was co-developing the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a monthly survey that measures the economic confidence of U.S. farmers. This tool has become a key resource for tracking trends in the agricultural economy and has helped farmers and policymakers better understand changing market conditions.
Known for his hands-on approach, Mintert consistently made it a priority to work directly with producers, delivering practical insights and fostering two-way communication between the university and the farm community. Even in retirement, he continues to play an active role in agricultural outreach, particularly through his ongoing involvement with the Ag Economy Barometer.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mintert is described by colleagues and peers as someone who has always placed service at the heart of his work. He has helped thousands of farmers make informed decisions, navigate economic uncertainty, and adapt to a rapidly evolving industry.
Originally from Indiana, Mintert and his wife Susan have two children and three grandchildren, with a fourth on the way. His lifelong dedication to agriculture and his efforts to empower the next generation of farmers make him a fitting recipient of this year’s Honorary Master Farmer award.
The Honorary Master Farmer award is presented annually to individuals who, while not necessarily farmers themselves, have significantly advanced the agricultural industry in Indiana. Jim Mintert’s career reflects that spirit marked by research, education, and outreach that have strengthened the agricultural community at both the state and national levels.
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