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For Keith Geis, Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom (WAIC) has always been about more than education. It’s about preserving the values that have long defined Wyoming’s agricultural way of life.
Growing up on a farm, Keith developed a deep respect for the hardworking individuals who form the backbone of our country. That lifelong connection to agriculture ultimately drew him to WAIC and led him to serve as Board Chairman, where he helped provide leadership and direction during a pivotal period in the organization’s history. His motivation was clear: to ensure the next generation understands agriculture not just as an industry, but as a foundation of integrity, hard work, and community service.
During Keith’s tenure, WAIC faced an important inflection point. As the organization looked to expand its reach across Wyoming’s educational system and hire its first executive director, it became clear that long-term impact required a stronger, more diversified funding base. Under Keith’s leadership, the board focused on cultivating new partnerships and engaging organizations and individuals across a variety of industries such as: agriculture, natural resources, and wildlife. By sharing a collaborative vision, WAIC established a solid financial foundation that allowed the organization to grow its influence and better serve Wyoming students.
Keith believes deeply in starting agricultural and natural resource education early. In his view, the future of the industry depends on helping young students develop critical thinking skills such as teaching them to discern fact from fiction while instilling core values such as honesty, integrity, and service. Investing at the elementary level, he notes, is not only about preparing future agricultural leaders; it’s about safeguarding the principles that sustain rural communities and Wyoming’s working landscapes.
Looking ahead, Keith acknowledges that funding will always be a challenge but also sees opportunity. He points to the potential for deeper partnerships with like-minded organizations, such as the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust, where one group works to preserve the land while another helps society understand the value of that preservation. Together, those efforts can create lasting impact.
As WAIC celebrates its 40th year, Keith’s story reflects exactly what the 40x40
Campaign is about: champions who stepped forward at critical moments to ensure this mission would endure. His leadership helped position WAIC for the next decades of educating Wyoming’s youth about agriculture, natural resources, and stewardship.
“I’m grateful for the experience,” Keith shares. “My time at WAIC was truly valuable.”
We are grateful as well—and honored to celebrate leaders like Keith Geis.
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