By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Soybean Association celebrated former U.S. Senator Pat Roberts's contributions to agriculture by awarding him the Meritorious Service Award on January 10, 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights individuals, companies, or organizations that have significantly benefited soybean farmers.
Roberts's political career, spanning over four decades across ten presidencies, began with his election to the House of Representatives in 1980. He later joined the Senate in 1996, serving Kansas for 24 years. His tenure in Washington, D.C., marked him as Kansas's longest-serving member of Congress.
Roberts’s commitment to agriculture was emphasized by Charles Atkinson of Great Bend, who collaborated with him on three farm bills. Atkinson praised Roberts for his engagement with Senate members and for promoting the narrative of Kansas agriculture.
Bill Wiley from Lyndon, another key figure in Kansas agriculture, echoed this sentiment. He highlighted Roberts's understanding of agricultural terms and policy, and his role in enhancing crop insurance and international marketing for farming.
Roberts's work also resonated with Bob Henry of Robinson, who noted the Senator’s contributions to discussions on biodiesel and crop insurance, key issues for Kansas farmers.
As Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Roberts made history by being the first to hold this position in both the House and Senate. His extensive committee work also included significant roles in the Senate Finance Committee, Senate Intelligence Committee, and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
Born in Topeka and a fourth-generation Kansan, Roberts is a Kansas State University journalism graduate and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He and his wife, Franki, have a family of three children and seven grandchildren.
The Kansas Soybean Association, during its annual Expo in Topeka, celebrated Roberts's longstanding commitment to agriculture. His 24 years of advocacy for agricultural policies have left a lasting impact on Kansas and its soybean growers.
Photo Credit: istock-ds70
Categories: Kansas, Business, Crops, Soybeans