Continuing our coverage of Seed World’s 30 High-Impact Women.
Julie Furgala, Seed Production Manager | KWS
Her nominator Trisha Gregory of KWS says: Julie is the seed production manager for KWS at the sugar beet seed production facility in Tangent, Oregon. She joined KWS in 2009 as the pre-commercial manager, overseeing Tangent’s pre-commercial operation in both field and processing, establishing many standardized processes and developing new seed cleaning and treating lines.
Core attributes: Resilient, Determined
Julie says: “I’m passionate about sugar beet seed production challenges — precision, adaptability and quick decisions — with a focus on continuous improvement driving strong seed yields and exceptional quality.”
Susana Goggi, Professor of Seed Physiology | ISU Seed Science Center
Her nominator Cindy Hicks of ISU says: Susana is a leading seed physiologist whose research on vigor, longevity, and stress tolerance has shaped global seed practices. With more than 100 publications and $12.5 million in funding, she pairs groundbreaking science with hands-on mentorship. She has trained dozens of graduate students, teaches a top seed science course, and collaborates with industry partners to translate research into real-world solutions. A respected voice in the seed community, Susana is also a champion for women in agriculture.
Core attributes: Seed Scientist, Mentor
Susana says: “The rewarding experience of solving complicated seed biology puzzles and mentoring the next generation of seed leaders and mentors (is why I do what I do.)”
Limor Golan, Commercial Operations Manager | Hazera
Her nominators (Andrew White, John Nance, Russell Brown, Joe Borchard and Darren Howard) say: As a Hazera dealer in Southern California, I have worked with Limor for 10 years now and have always enjoyed working with her. As dealers, we work very close with our suppliers, and it is so important to have someone like Limor to secure the seed you need for the year and constantly keep you advised on any issues or concerns or overseeing and dealing when there are critical seed issues.
Core attributes: Inspiring, Passionately Relentless
Limor says: “I’m passionate about the seed industry because it aligns with one of my core values, supporting farmers. By working closely with our dealers and industry leaders, I strive to deliver the best products and provide exceptional service to our customers.”
Mary Gomane, Vice President of Sales & Production | Applewood Seed Company
Her nominator Joe Eenigenburg of Applewood Seed says: Mary brings a rare combination of deep industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and forward-thinking leadership to the seed world. With a career spanning more than 20 years, she’s played a key role in every stage of the seed supply chain — from sourcing and vendor relationships to international sales and strategic production planning. Mary leads with both insight and empathy in the open-pollinated flower seed market.
Core attributes: Impactful, Relational
Mary says: “Working with flower seed allows me to connect purpose with passion. Flowers give us beauty, balance, and biodiversity to create a more sustainable world.”
Ashley Harlow, Director of Supply Chain and Business Operations | AgReliant Genetics
Her nominator Shannon Kubik of Elevate Agronomics says: If there was one word to describe Ashley, it would be impact. She has a deep knowledge of supply chain, operations, and business development and applies that expertise daily to advance AgReliant and the seed industry. Her leadership is characterized by precision, collaboration, and the ability to drive results across complex systems. Ashley is also known for mentoring colleagues and fostering professional growth, making her an invaluable contributor and role model.
Core attributes: Motivational, Resilient
Ashley says: “Driven by legacy, I’m passionate about preserving innovation in seed genetics to support agriculture’s future for my family, our farm and the industry at large.”
Kate Hartnell, President | Saddle Butte Ag Inc.
Her nominators (Rachel Hawkins of Barenbrug USA and Karen Withers of AgCultured Consulting) say: Kate is a respected leader in the seed industry known for her business acumen, integrity and commitment to serving growers. She has guided Saddle Butte Ag Inc. with vision and resilience, ensuring it remains a trusted source of quality seed while adapting to the changing needs of agriculture. Kate’s leadership is marked by her ability to balance operational excellence with strong customer relationships, making her an influential voice in both her company and the broader seed community.
Core attributes: Driven, Impactful
Kate says: “Our industry deserves honesty, excellence, and lasting improvement. I strive to leave every process, relationship and experience better than it was before me.”
Catherine Hatcher, North America Soy Germplasm Development Manager | Syngenta
Her nominator Warren Kruger of Syngenta says: Catherine is a highly motivated plant scientist who has dedicated more than two decades to improving plant performance and health. Through her decorated career, she has had a consistent positive impact on global agriculture and food security.
Core attributes: Strategic, Insightful
Catherine says: “My drive is about people and food security. Championing and shaping an inclusive, sustainable agricultural future through scientific advancement, mentorship and collaboration to deliver innovations that drive on-farm success and safeguard food security.”
Kelly Iverson, Program Coordinator | USDA National Seed Health System
Her nominator Cindy Hicks of Iowa State University says: Kelly exemplifies the precision, leadership and scientific excellence that define high-impact professionals in the seed industry. As the coordinator of the USDA National Seed Health System (NSHS), housed at ISU’s Seed Science Center, Kelly plays a pivotal role in protecting global agriculture by ensuring the safe and effective international movement of seed. Kelly leads with both technical expertise and collaborative vision.
Core attributes: Curious, Thoughtful
Kelly says: “Nothing is better than being outside among plants! The seed world offers diverse opportunities allowing a person to grow, learn and help feed the world.”
Hannah Jeffery, Postdoctoral Researcher | Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture
Her nominator Karen Cichy of the USDA-ARS says: Hannah is a promising young scientist at Texas A&M whose research is helping bridge the gap between plant genetics and practical solutions for food and nutrition. As a Borlaug Scholar, she embodies the legacy of innovation and impact that drives global agricultural progress. Her work focuses on improving the quality and resilience of staple crops such as dry beans, maize and sorghum by uncovering the genetic and molecular mechanisms behind traits like cooking time, shelf life, and stress tolerance.
Core attributes: Hard-working, Thoughtful
Hannah says: “If I can help one person be better fed through their life, then my life won’t be in vain.”
Lisa Lacy, Director of Product Management | PanAmerican Seed
Her nominator Robin Ruether of PanAmerican Seed says: Lisa is a pioneer and role model for introducing breakthrough flower seed varieties to the industry, while also leading the next generation of product managers and innovators. In her career she has progressively climbed the ladder to now hold the title of director of product management at PanAmerican Seed.
Core attributes: Dedicated, Persistent
Lisa says: “Product development — the merger of people, plants, processes — is extremely satisfying. Brainstorming, identifying the standout product, collaborating on challenges, and successful launches are highly motivating.”
