NEW ORLEANS, LA-  (Sept. 30, 2015) FCC Services held its 2015 The FORUM for Ag Lending:  Inspiring Innovation at the Hyatt French Quarter in New Orleans, LA September 29 – October 1, 2015.  Three members of the National Black Growers Council (NBGC) served as panelists in a session as part of the Diversity & Inclusion track at the conference.  NBGC panelists included NBGC Vice Chairman, Harper Armstrong of Bastrop, LA; Antwain Downs of Bastrop, LA and Ronald Bunton of Woodburn, KY.

This Diverse Producer Panel Discussion was facilitated by Kristin Mattox, Marketing Director of Farm Credit Bank of Texas. The purpose of this session was to explore the evolving marketplace from a diversity and inclusion perspective, keeping in line with the theme, Inspiring Innovation.  The panelists had the opportunity to share their experiences and views from the insight of a diverse producer, as well as, engage in dialogue with audience.

A Diversity & Inclusion track was added to the conference for 2015 to support the efforts of those closest to Farm Credit customers.  Understanding and applying the principles of diversity and inclusion will assist in expanding perspectives and thought processes, which in turn will allow Farm Credit to open and grow new markets and serve a broadened scope of customers.  Conference attendees included: mid-senior level loan officers, relationship managers, branch managers, credit analysts and regional vice presidents.  The Diversity & Inclusion track at The FORUM for Ag Lending was brought to attendees by the Farm Credit System Diversity Workgroup.