OABA Honors Industry Leaders with Honorary Membership

OABA is proud to announce the 2026 Honorary Membership recipients: David C. Barrett and John Ward. This prestigious recognition is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service to Ohio’s agribusiness industry and OABA.

John Ward, of Marysville, Ohio, began his career in commercial agribusiness in 1979 with The Mill Mutuals, representing various aspects of agribusiness insurance. In 1995, he founded J H Ward Agency, serving agribusiness owners and companies across the state. Ward has also contributed extensively to OABA, serving on scholarship committees, the Educational Trust, and the Board of Directors.

David C. Barrett, of Columbus, Ohio, is managing partner and founding member of Barrett, Easterday, Cunningham & Eselgroth LLP. Barrett has served agribusiness clients across North America in areas including corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, commercial transactions and arbitration. He has also served as OABA counsel, been a frequent industry speaker and teaches Agricultural Law at the University of North Dakota School of Law.

“John and David have each made remarkable contributions to Ohio’s agribusiness community and to OABA,” said Melinda Witten, OABA President and CEO. “Through their thoughtful leadership and long-standing dedication, they have helped shape our industry and strengthen our association. It is a privilege to recognize their achievements with OABA Honorary Membership.”

The honorees will be celebrated during the 2026 OABA Industry Conference on January 27 at the Hilton Columbus at Easton Hotel. The event will bring together agribusiness leaders to share expertise, discuss emerging trends and honor outstanding achievements within the industry. More details are available at www.oaba.net/events_conference.