AMES, Iowa – Jacob Handsaker, of Radcliffe, Iowa, has been named the 2020 Emerging Iowa Leader by the Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Handsaker, a farmer in Hardin and Story counties and co-owner of Hands-On Excavating, received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural studies from Iowa State University in 2004.
“Jacob is a highly active alumnus. From serving as a member of our young alumni program, the Curtiss League, to hosting university visitors on his farm operation and participating in water quality research projects with CALS faculty, Jacob has been a wonderful advocate and champion for Iowa agriculture and Iowa State University,” said Daniel J. Robison, holder of the endowed dean’s chair in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
The award was presented at center court of Hilton Coliseum during the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences sponsored Cyclone women’s basketball game on Feb. 8.
Selection of the Emerging Iowa Leader Award is based on efforts to advance agriculture and life sciences in Iowa through communications, education, relationship-building, engagement and outstanding alumni service to the college. Honorees must be age 40 or younger at the time of nomination, live or work in Iowa and demonstrate high potential for future professional growth.