Speakers

Dr. Scott Irwin

Laurence J. Norton Chair of Agricultural Marketing

University of Illinois

Session:

Agricultural Update: Land and Commodities

Biography

Dr. Scott H. Irwin, the Laurence J. Norton Chair of Agricultural Marketing at the University of Illinois, is a globally recognized thought leader in agricultural economics. Other scholars frequently cite his research, and his expertise is widely sought-after by farmers, market analysts, journalists, and policymakers. Major media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, regularly seek him out for commentary. With over 40,000 followers on social media, he is the most followed agricultural economist in the world. Dr. Irwin's expertise spans commodity market speculation to biofuels policy, with active involvement in global discussions. He has written two books, most notably Back to the Futures, a fun and entertaining introduction to the world of commodity futures markets. Dr. Irwin also helped pioneer the farmdoc project, an innovative agricultural extension program that has been dubbed the “Wall Street Journal of ag business.”Dr. Irwin is a Fellow of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, the highest honor accorded to members. He continues to teach courses on commodity price analysis, fueled by a lifelong passion for commodity markets.In sum, Dr. Irwin's indelible mark on agricultural economics, influential publications, and dedication to empowering farmers make him a leading industry voice and influential speaker.