Crosby Focuses On Moving Division Forward

By Tom Crosby
With the retirement of long-time Dairy Director Brad Rach, President Paul Olson has named me as the Acting National Dairy Director.

I am enthusiastic about my new role, because it presents an opportunity to continue to serve the organization I grew up with. I look forward to applying my experience and passion toward advancing the goals of National Farmers.

My journey in the dairy industry began as a farm kid, working on our Northern Wisconsin dairy farm where I learned the work ethic and dedication it takes from an entire family to own and operate a dairy farm. This experience laid the foundation for my career, instilling a deep respect for the dedication and hard work of dairy producers.

After high school, I completed two years of the University of Wisconsin Farm and Industry Short Course and then returned to the family farm. Soon after, my brother and I began leasing the farm from our parents. In 2002, we purchased the business when my dad went to work for National Farmers Livestock Division.

Over the years, I have held several leadership positions with NFO, including the Wisconsin Nafcor Board, Wisconsin State Board, and as State Vice President. I also serve on the organization’s national board. In 2020, I was named Midwest Regional Dairy Director overseeing Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota and Northern Illinois. These roles have allowed me to work with producers, haulers, processors and other key stakeholders in the dairy industry.

One of my proudest achievements has been developing our young Midwest staff after the retirement of several key staff members who had a wealth of experience. This has helped me learn a lot from each of our staff members and has built a strong team that works well together.

The dairy industry looks very different today than it did when I grew up in it. NFO and our staff need to adjust and change, but our vision and our goals remain the same. I look forward to working with our members, administration, processors and industry partners as we strive to enhance the sustainability and prosperity of our members.

Together, we must work to ensure a strong future for our dairy farmers and everyone that relies on their hard work.

Thank you for your confidence in me in this new role, and I look forward to working with all of you to move our organization forward.