For his commitment, dedication and leadership within the seed industry, the International Seed Federation honored Tim Johnson of Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc. (IFSI) with an Honorary Life Membership during the 2016 World Seed Congress in Punta del Este, Uruguay.
“They say that it’s the people you will remember,” said ISF president Alvaro Eyzaguirre, who presented the award. “One man I will certainly never forget is past president Tim Johnson. His dedication and drive for innovation touches everyone who meets him.
“You might remember that he assumed the role of ISF secretary general when he was ISF president — something that makes him truly unique in the long line of ISF presidents. He basically kept ISF on track during some testing times. I would like to recognize Tim’s exceptional service and unwavering support for the International Seed Federation with an Honorary Life Membership.”
Johnson, who began his work in the seed industry in 1976 as an hourly employee with AgriPro Biosciences, Inc., served as ISF president from 2012 to 2014. It wasn’t until 1993 that he joined IFSI — a research, product development, licensing and production company — as vice president of marketing. Today, he is president of the SGI Field Crops Division, based in Lafayette, Indiana.
Through the years, Johnson has been active at the national and international levels. All two-year terms, he served as ISF president, first vice chair and second vice chair. At the national level, he has served as chair of the American Seed Trade Association’s Corn and Sorghum Seed Division, ASTA Board of Directors liaison to ISF and he’s been active on numerous committees. Additionally, he has served on the board of directors for the American Seed Research Foundation and the U.S. Grains Council.
In his acceptance speech, Johnson thanked his family, his seed company and ASTA for their support. “Always remember: better seed, better life,” he said, as he shared his gratitude for the opportunity and began explaining how he and his wife, Betty, got involved at the international level.
