American Agri-Women awarded its prestigious Veritas Award to Amanda Radke during its 2024 National Convention, held recently in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The Veritas Award, one of AAW’s highest honors, is given to individuals who have demonstrated public witness to the “pursuit of truth.”
Amanda Radke, a fifth-generation rancher from Mitchell, South Dakota, was recognized for her extraordinary commitment to advancing agriculture, rural communities, and food security. Radke, alongside her husband, Tyler, and their four children, operate Radke Land & Cattle, an Angus seedstock operation. Her work exemplifies the resilience and passion of American agriculturalists.
A seasoned advocate for agriculture, Radke has spent nearly two decades traveling nationwide to defend the livelihood of farming families, promote rural business vitality, and ensure access to safe, abundant food. A former National FFA Extemporaneous Speaking Champion and National Beef Ambassador, she continues to educate and inspire through her writing, speaking, and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Radke’s contributions extend beyond the ranch. She has also been a leading advocate against the controversial CO2 pipeline project in South Dakota, where her efforts were pivotal in organizing opposition to Senate Bill 201.
Radke described the legislation as a “land grab” that tramples private property rights and local governance in favor of corporate interests. The organization believes that Radke’s leadership in this campaign reflects her unwavering commitment to protecting rural communities and the rights of landowners.
She also hosts The Heart of Rural America podcast and radio show, is a syndicated columnist, and is a children’s book author focused on fostering agricultural understanding among youth.
As a cattle industry consultant with CK6 and co-founder of the auction platform Bid On Beef, Radke exemplifies innovation in agriculture. She also serves on the National Agriculture Campaign Advisory Council, offering insights to the U.S. House of Representatives Agriculture Committee.
