K-State celebrates Rezac as distinguished alumnus
A Kansas Soybean Commissioner with a notable history of service to farming peers has now earned accolades from Kansas State University.
Lance Rezac received the K-State College of Agriculture Distinguished Alumnus Award April 12. Following nearly two decades of service on the Kansas Soybean Association board, Rezac jumped into the role of Commissioner and United Soybean Board director shortly after. Most recently, he completed a yearlong term at the helm of the U.S. Soybean Export Council board, an opportunity that sent him to numerous countries across the globe to promote the quality of U.S. Soy.
“It is really an honor to be selected by K-State and the College of Agriculture for my accomplishments,” Rezac says. “I am especially proud of all the ways I have tried to benefit agriculture in Kansas, nationally and internationally. Working through the Commission and USSEC really aligns well with K-State’s mission because we can fund research and partner with K-State’s international programs.”
Rezac’s year as USSEC Chairman involved travel to 12 countries to converse with soy buyers and promote the value of the U.S. soybean crop, though he says “I did not keep track of the days or the miles from the year. It is not about me. I always say it is about highlighting the work USSEC does for farmers.”
In presenting the distinguished alumnus award, Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension, spoke on Rezac’s accomplished resume driving value back to soybean farmers.
Rezac is currently a fifth-generation operator of Rezac Land and Livestock in collaboration with his brother, children and nephew. They raise soybeans, corn, wheat and alfalfa in addition to running a swine and beef operation.
Rezac earned a degree in Agricultural Mechanization with an agronomy minor in 1983. He describes winning the alumni award as, “beyond my dreams.”
Over 100 alumni and friends of the K-State College of Agriculture reunited in Manhattan earlier this month for an inaugural event that included the presentation of awards. Josh Roe, Kansas Corn CEO, received the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award and Agricultural Education professor Gaea Hock received the David Mugler Outstanding Teaching Award.