What has led you to want to serve your Fraternity?
Vroom’s dedication to AGR and its mission is encapsulated in his beliefs in the power AGR has to influence a young man’s life for the better.
“There are over 55,000 AGR members,” he said. “We need to find our brothers and foster engagement, whether through sweat equity or financial support. We need to keep them inspired by our purpose and the incredible foundation we provide for agriculture.”
He said AGR’s brand and its incredible heritage are a small piece of the Fraternity’s survival and development, but it comes down to the effort of every AGR member, from brothers who work for the National Fraternity, to the brothers at the chapter house working on their degree. His commitment to AGR is unwavering.
How did AGR influence your early life?
A pivotal moment in Vroom’s life came before he even entered high school. During the summer before eighth grade, a visit from Daniel Bock, an agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor, who was also a member of Alpha Chapter, set Vroom on a path that would define his future. Bock’s encouragement led Vroom to enroll in agriculture education and join the FFA. Vroom eventually attended the University of Illinois, where he was initiated into Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. “AGR brothers were my brothers, the 18-man initiate class I joined was a special bond for me, individually and with my brothers,” he said.
What are your goals as Grand President?
Jay Vroom’s desire to give back is fueled by a commitment to maintain the significant momentum launched by the brothers who’ve preceded him.
He emphasizes, “AGR is an engine to develop and inspire our future American Ag Leaders.”
As Grand President, Vroom took the baton from Greg Nickerson with a focus on keeping the momentum rolling forward. He said the success of AGR will be measured by Local Chapter Excellence (LCE) and raising funds for continued support for LCE.
“I look forward to redoubling my efforts to support Chairman Glenn Stith and our brothers on the Foundation Board,” Brother Vroom said. “I want to help our local chapter foundations more.”
He also said he hopes to continue to build up the foundations of the National Fraternity by bringing his focus back to farmers. Brother Vroom noted farmers as the bedrock of AGR, especially those who make it their full-time career.
What challenges are you addressing?
Reflecting on the challenges ahead, Vroom acknowledged the decrease in agriculture students on college campus where AGR has a chapter.
“LCE is our single best asset to overcome those challenges,” he said. Brother Vroom emphasized the importance of engaging and supporting chapters across the nation through LCE and more engagement with local alum chapter leaders, and more support to vital Chapter Advisers.
He said listening to alumni at the national and local level is key to the fraternity’s future. He noted the importance of finding ways to re-engage alumni members.
How are you honoring the past, while looking to the future?
Vroom took the baton from Greg Nickerson with a focus on keeping the momentum rolling forward. He said he is aware that AGR must look outside of agriculture-based degree fields to thrive in the changing world around it, but he wanted to shine light on those who set the base for the Fraternity.
“Farmers, farmers, farmers,” Vroom said. “‘No Farmers, No AGR.’ We aren’t all from farm or rural backgrounds, but none of what we do (down to eating three times per day) is possible without farmers.”
How did you get involved in agriculture?
Jay Vroom's journey began near Princeton, Illinois, where he was born to a fifth-generation Illinois farmer and his wife. Raised on a grain and livestock farm that has been in his family for over 125 years, Vroom's childhood was shaped by the values of hard work and community. This unique upbringing laid the foundation for a remarkable career in agricultural advocacy and leadership. This early mentorship and support from his parents fueled his passion for agriculture and education.
What is your career journey?
Vroom graduated with honors from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. His professional career in agriculture began in trade association roles, where he spent 45 years honing his skills and building relationships. His dedication and expertise eventually led him to serve as the President and CEO of CropLife America, the leading trade association for the agricultural science industry in the United States. Over his 30-year tenure, Vroom managed industry public policy and outreach efforts federal and state governments, engaging with global entities like the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Vroom's commitment to agriculture extended beyond his professional responsibilities. He was deeply involved in supporting agricultural youth programs like FFA and 4-H, recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders. His work with these organizations reflected his belief in giving back and investing in the future of the industry.
In 2018, Vroom transitioned to a new role as CEO at Vroom•Leigh•Agriculture, LLC, where he continued to influence agricultural public policy, communications outreach, and business strategy. His expertise and experience made him a sought-after advisor for companies and organizations navigating the complex landscape of agricultural regulations and public perception. Six years into his second career, he consults for about 30 different companies, with most of those clients representing the agribusiness sector.
Additionally, Vroom serves as the Chairman of the Board of Advisors for the America's Conservation Agriculture Movement programs, an initiative by Farm Journal that promote sustainable agricultural practices and build trust between farmers and consumers.
Jay also volunteered on the founding board of the Soil Health Institute and today is on board for the Illinois State Society of D.C. He also continues to do volunteer work for the National FFA Foundation.
How were you involved with your Chapter and the National Fraternity?
Jay Vroom's service to AGR began the editor of Alpha Chapter’s Crescent. As an alumnus, he spent time leading others at the Strategic Planning Sessions and working with the Washington D.C. Alumni Chapter. He began his service on the National Board and served as a Contributing Editor to the Sickle and Sheaf magazine. Vroom has been a recipient of the Grand President’s Award and was recognized as a Brother of the Century.
Vroom's dedication to AGR and its mission is encapsulated in his belief of unity.
“There are over 55,000 AGRs. We need to find our brothers and foster engagement, whether through sweat equity or financial support. We need to keep them inspired by our purpose and the incredible foundation we provide for agriculture.”
He emphasized how AGR represents more than a fraternity on a college campus, it is an impact on its members and those around it.
"Our brand is incredible in its heritage, but it does not guarantee anything about tomorrow. We have to earn tomorrow for AGR."
