Donna Moenning

Donna is known for her strategic counsel and communication initiatives that inspire consumer confidence in food and agriculture. Strategic planning, consumer research, stakeholder engagement and brand storytelling are just a few of the ways Donna brings refreshing insight and ideas to achieve the desired organizational and communication goals.

Based on a crop and livestock farm in Southeast Minnesota, Donna works with food and agriculture brands and organizations across the United States leveraging her knowledge and experience to champion meaningful outcomes and client success.

Bridging the gap between consumers and food production has always been foundational to Donna’s work. She started her career as a farm broadcaster where she developed her communication skills at a microphone while deepening her knowledge of agriculture. She believes all effective communication begins with understanding your audience, which is why she values Look East’s consumer trust research. Donna brings personal, creative energy to her role.

Outside of work, Donna enjoys spending time with family, attending cattle shows, quilting, mentoring young people and volunteering at church.

Office Location

Minnesota

Career Background

Before joining Look East, Donna held leadership positions with Midwest Dairy Association as Vice President of Integrated Communications and Director of Public Relations for the National Live Stock and Meat Board.

Noteworthy career experiences include competing in a combine demolition derby, working with legendary chef Julia Child, actor James Garner  and baseball hall of famer Nolan Ryan. Her career has taught her the value of being flexible, grateful and always prepared!

Awards and Accomplishments

Donna’s work has received numerous marketing awards through the years from the National Agri-Marketing Association and garnered a Telly Award honoring excellence in video and television production.

The most meaningful accomplishments for Donna include: National FFA Honorary Degree, Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame Inductee, South Dakota State University Honorary Agriculturalist, South Dakota State University Journalism Outstanding Alum and the Minnesota Simmental Association Bell Award.

Donna Is a graduate of South Dakota State University in Agricultural Journalism.

Organizations

Donna is a member of the Minnesota Simmental Association, Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation and the National Cattlemen’s Association. She also serves on the National FFA Prepared Public Speaking Committee.

Stages and Presentations

Donna has spoken to food system stakeholders in more than 35 states, Canada, South America and Europe.

She contributes to Look East thought leadership through content on crisis management, community advisory panels, communication and media training, strategic planning and development, and has knowledge and experience in sustainability and animal welfare.

Thought Leadership

Readiness Starts Here: Essentials to Building a Crisis Communication Plan

Not If, But When: Why Crisis Readiness Is Non-Negotiable

Communicating Sustainability – It’s a Journey