Dr. Amy Yoder Named Honorary Clemson Alumna

The Clemson Alumni Association recognized Dr. Amy J. Yoder of Williston, FL with the designation of Honorary Alumna of Clemson University. The Honorary Alumnus/a designation is a special recognition reserved for unwavering supporters of Clemson whose passion for the university is undeniable, even though they never officially attended Clemson.

Yoder is a sixth-generation farmer who has worked in the agricultural industry for more than twenty years. She is currently the EVP of FBN, Farmers Business Network leading the Livestock Division.  FBN is the country’s largest online agricultural marketplace serving farmers from coast to coast. Prior to this position, she was the CEO of Anuvia Plant Nutrients, where she was recognized for spearheading the charge to help commercial agriculture become more sustainable. She also served in leadership positions with QC Supply, Arysta Life Science North America, United States Industries Spectrum Brands and Biolab of Chemtura, Inc.

Yoder’s commitment to Clemson began when her daughter chose Clemson as her educational home. Although she is a Michigan State graduate with an Agricultural Technologies Management degree and an Agriculture Doctor of Arts degree, her love for Clemson has shown in every interaction she has had with the university. Her loyalty to Clemson was noticed very quickly and she was asked to join the Clemson University Foundation Board of Directors. A special task force was developed to reorganize the Foundation Board into a smaller fiduciary board. Through her help, the project was a success, and Yoder was invited to be an ambassador on the newly formed philanthropic board known as the Order of the Oak.

Marshall Brown, PhD (’82, ’86, ’88), President and CEO of ACM Chemistries Inc., stated, “Through the years, I have never met another non-alumnus/a that exudes as much passion and commitment to the university and its mission as Amy has. Amy inspires me and others to do more for our wonderful university – her adopted university.”

Yoder’s commitment to Clemson has extended beyond the board room and into the classroom. She has served as a judge for the College of Science’s Catalyst Competition, is a College of Science General Endowment Contributor, and was a major contributor to the Snow Outdoor Athletic facilities, expressing her interest in ensuring Clemson students have a state-of-the-art intramural complex. As a member of the Athletics Capital Campaign Cabinet, she is also an avid supporter of the women’s athletics program, especially focusing on Women’s Basketball, Volleyball and Gymnastics.

Wil Brasington, CEO of the Clemson Alumni Association (CAA), praised Yoder’s devotion to Clemson: “It’s uncommon for a graduate of one university to become a strong supporter of another. Amy’s dedication to being “ALL IN” for Clemson is truly inspiring, making the choice to honor her as an Honorary Alumna an easy one.”

The Honorary Alumnus designation was personally presented to Yoder in Clemson by Wil Brasington, CEO of the Clemson Alumni Association (CAA); Deb Conklin, Chair of the CAA Board of Directors; Jim Clements, President of Clemson University; and Brian O’Rourke, Vice President for Advancement, among others.

Honorary alumni are carefully selected by the Alumni Association board of directors based on their exceptional service, lifelong devotion, and unwavering loyalty to Clemson University or the Clemson Alumni Association. Nominations for the 2025 Honorary Alumnus/a designation are open now through January 31. To nominate a deserving individual, review past honorees, or access award guidelines, visit the Clemson Alumni website at alumni.clemson.edu/honoraryalum.