Servant-Leadership: How Jerry Steiner Strives to Help People, Plants, and Planet
Jerry Steiner has led a long and distinguished career in agriculture—and in giving back. As an ag economics major at the University of Wisconsin, he was president of his ag fraternity. In his role as Monsanto’s executive vice president of sustainability and corporate affairs, he championed the virus-resistant cassava for Africa project. When he co-founded CoverCress Inc., he wanted to help farmers combat climate change. For his many acts of service, connection, and support, in October, the Danforth Center presented Jerry with the Danforth Distinguished Service Award.
Denise and Jerry Steiner. The Danforth Center presented the Danforth Distinguished Service Award to Jerry in October, 2023.
A Farming Foundation
Jerry Steiner grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin. It was hard physical work, but rewarding, and he credits that upbringing for his character formation.
“I give my parents a lot of credit. Besides the very full-time work of running a dairy farm, they also served in the town and county governments and did a lot of work for the Farm Bureau. They taught us the importance of doing your part and leaving things better than you found them.”
Jerry riding his homemade seed planter. Steiner is well known for his can-do attitude and willingness to fulfill any role needed in service to the bigger vision.
What I love about the Danforth Center mission is that improving plants is a gift that keeps on giving. Plants and people and the planet are so intertwined. If you can help plants, you can help everyone.
Jerry Steiner
CoverCress co-founder
His “Why”
A Danforth Society member since 2004, Steiner has served on the Danforth Leadership Council, elevated the profile of the Danforth Center innovation community, and continues to work with entrepreneurs tackling climate change. When asked why he believes in the mission of the Danforth Center, Jerry responds: “Plants are essential for food, human health, planetary health, fiber, fuel and so much more. What I love about the Danforth Center mission is that improving plants is a gift that keeps on giving. Plants and people and the planet are so intertwined. If you can help plants, you can help everyone.”
Creating a Legacy
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A version of this story originally appeared in the Leaflet, the free newsletter of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Sign up to receive more stories like this straight to your inbox.