Hastings Agriculture Leader Recognized by Nebraska Corn Board

A former agriculture leader in Hastings is being honored by the Nebraska Corn Board.

March 25, 2026Updated: March 25, 2026
By Brandon Shanahan

Photo provided by NCB: Recipients for the Nebraska Corn Board’s annual awards include Allen Meyer representing Timpte, Inc. for the Ag Vision Award, Duane Kristensen for the Ag Achievement Award and Dr. Terry Hejny, an Ag Achievement Award recipient.

HASTINGS, Neb. — A former agriculture leader in Hastings is being honored by the Nebraska Corn Board.

Duane Kristensen of Hastings earned the Ag Achievement Award, which is the NCB's highest recognition.

Kristensen served on the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Alumni Board, the Chancellor's Advisory Board, and the Nebraska Alumni Association Executive Board. He held leadership roles with the American Coalition for Ethanol, the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council, and helped organize what is now Renewable Fuels Nebraska. He retired from Chief Industries in 2021.

"Duane has shown a life of service and achievement for agriculture, making a deep impact on the ethanol and corn industry," said Andy Groskopf, NCB vice chairman. "As the growth of ethanol use and availability has grown, Duane's dedication and tireless work have helped create new demand for our corn."

The Ag Achievement Award recognizes individuals for their efforts to promote Nebraska's corn industry.