Trailblazing Women in Seed: Honoring Donna Boggs, Katy Soden, and Kate Hartnell for Industry Leadership

The 2025 "She's in a League of Her Own" list celebrates 30 high-impact women who are shaping the seed industry through their leadership, vision, and commitment. This year, several outstanding contributors from the Pacific Seed Association (PSA) and its partners have been especially recognized for their dedication and impact, including PSA Associate Director Donna Boggs, PSA Board Member Katy Soden, and OSA President Kate Hartnell.

Celebrating Donna Boggs

Donna Boggs, PSA Associate Director, stands out as the heart and soul of the association. Her years of dedicated service have strengthened the seed industry across California, where she is lauded for her collaborative leadership, strong relationships, and relentless commitment to ensuring the sector remains innovative and competitive. Donna is recognized as an indispensable leader and a trusted voice in the seed community. She describes her motivation as being "driven to serve and connect with others, knowing that together we can make a meaningful difference and contribute to a stronger seed industry".

Honoring Katy Soden

Katy Soden, a valued PSA Board Member and Director of Business Operations at the California Crop Improvement Association, was also highlighted for her ongoing leadership and commitment to the seed sector. Katy’s expertise and dedication have been instrumental in supporting PSA initiatives and fostering collaboration at industry events. Her experience and advocacy help fuel the mission of both PSA and the greater seeds community.

Congratulating OSA’s Kate Hartnell

Kate Hartnell, President of the Oregon Seed Association (OSA), was likewise honored among this year’s high-impact women. Kate’s leadership is marked by an inclusive approach and dedication to advancing both the industry and its partnerships. As president, she steers OSA through challenges and new policy landscapes, always aiming to elevate the seed sector as a whole.

Impact Across the Industry

These honorees epitomize the core values at the heart of the PSA: excellence, collaboration, and support for farmers and colleagues alike. Their recognition in "She’s in a League of Her Own" underscores how women continue to break new ground and leave lasting legacies across all areas of seed, from boardrooms to research to industry advocacy.

The PSA community is proud to work alongside trailblazers like Donna Boggs, Katy Soden, and partners such as OSA’s Kate Hartnell, who all exemplify what it means to lead—both for today and for the future of the industry.

Read the full article here:

https://www.seedworld.com/us/2025/09/23/shes-in-a-league-of-her-own-4/