Local Jordyn Prior Recognized As Rising Star At Western Agriculture Conference

Jordyn Prior was awarded the Rising Star Award. Photo submitted

Women from across Western Canada gathered in Calgary earlier this month to celebrate leadership, innovation, and community within the agricultural industry during the Advancing Women in Agriculture West Conference.

Held March 8 to 10 at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, the annual event brings together women working across all areas of agriculture to connect, learn, and recognize those helping shape the future of the industry in Alberta.

The conference welcomes women who share a passion for agriculture and food systems. Attendees include university and college students studying agriculture, producers, ranchers, agribusiness professionals, entrepreneurs, and representatives from grower associations.

Through keynote presentations, workshops, and networking sessions, participants explored topics such as communication and leadership, mentoring and networking, financial management and independence, work-life balance, and career planning.

The 2026 Women in Ag Awards were presented during The Notables, a special reception held March 8 in Calgary. The event was held in conjunction with the 2026 Advancing Women in Agriculture & Food Conference (West), presented and hosted by AFSC.

Among those honoured this year was local woman Jordyn Prior, who received the Rising Star Award, recognizing young female leaders under 40 who show exceptional promise, passion, and a commitment to advocating for agriculture.

Prior grew up on a mixed grain and cattle operation in northeastern Alberta, where she developed a strong connection to agriculture and rural communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sustainability along with a degree in Agribusiness and has built a career that blends agriculture with marketing and communications.

“Women in agriculture come from every corner of our industry; from the lab to the classroom to the field; and every one of those roles matters. If I can leave any legacy behind, I hope it’s a longer table where more women feel seen, valued, and empowered to lead authentically and without hesitation,” said Prior.

“I was raised to believe that no challenge was too big and no opportunity was off-limits — and that foundation of grit, community, and mentorship is what shaped me. Being recognized alongside so many remarkable women reminds me that we rise by lifting others, and that meaningful change in agriculture happens when we put people and relationships first. I am deeply grateful for this award and truly honoured to be recognized among such inspiring women in agriculture.”

She currently works as the Ag and Energy Marketing Specialist for South Country Co-op and was previously the Associate Director of Brand at Cornerstone Co-op.

A dedicated 4-H alumna, Prior spent 11 years involved in the program and continued mentoring and volunteering afterward. She now serves as the 4-H Alberta North East Area Director, helping guide and mentor youth involved in agriculture.

Outside of her professional role, Prior runs a herd of purebred Angus cattle alongside her brothers and supports other farmers and rural businesses through marketing strategy.

Those interested in learning more about Prior will be able to hear her story on the 4-H Alberta podcast in the coming weeks, where she will speak with host and CEO Tracy Gardner about her 4-H experience and the importance of sponsorship and partnerships.

Other recipients of the 2026 AFSC Women in Ag Awards included Robyne Davidson, named The Innovator; Laura Brown, The Operator; Michelle Rigney, The Ignitor; Dr. Brenda Rolston, The Leader; Beth Cash, The Promoter; Alexandra Brochu, The Community Builder; and Lisa Kitt, The Maverick.

Jackie Rae Greening was also recognized with the Notable Lifetime Achiever Award, honouring her long-standing impact on agriculture and the generations she has helped inspire through her work at CFCW.

Events like the Advancing Women in Agriculture West Conference continue to highlight the leadership, dedication, and innovation of women working across Alberta’s agricultural industry while fostering connections and opportunities for future leaders.