am a Professor of Regenerative Agriculture in the Crop Sciences department at the University of Illinois. My research investigates the growth and productivity of perennial C4 grasses to guide their management for biomass, ecosystem services, and profit. As Feedstock Production Theme Leader for the Center of Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) I advance CABBI’s generation of fundamental plant science for production of climate-smart, resilient grass crops that produce value-added bioproducts. As director of I-Regen, an I-state Regenerative Agriculture Initiative, I connect researchers and stakeholders to advance knowledge and practices that foster health and wealth, particularly in disinvested Midwest communities. My family owns and operates Caveny Farm near Monticello, IL where we graze cattle, sheep, and heritage poultry for local sale; the farm serves as inspiration and proving ground for our ideas and collaborations. I came back to Illinois after twelve wonderful years at Iowa State University, where I remain an Affiliate Professor in the Dept. of Agronomy.