Posted on February 20, 2026 at 2:10 PM by Emily Saveraid
James “Jim” Borel has dedicated over four decades to the global agriculture and food sector, showcasing his leadership and commitment to advancing these industries.
After obtaining his degree in Agricultural Business from Iowa State University, he began his career in 1978 as a sales representative in the agricultural products business at DuPont, where he climbed the ranks to become the Executive Vice President. He retired from DuPont in 2016.
Jim’s passion for agriculture is deeply intertwined with his involvement in 4-H, which has significantly benefited from his leadership and generosity. He has been a steadfast and generous supporter of National 4-H Council for 20 years. Jim’s dedication to youth development and education is evident through his active participation in 4-H, where he has helped shape future leaders in agriculture.
In addition to his more than 10 years on the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees, Jim also serves on several other boards including Neogen Corporation, Eat Just, Inc., and Advanced BioNutrition where he continues to influence the agriculture sector. Jim also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Iowa State University Foundation. He is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting educational and agricultural initiatives at Iowa 4-H Foundation and land-grant universities like Delaware and Iowa State.
“4-H is the premier youth development organization and I am forever grateful for all that I have gained through my involvement both as a youngster and an adult!”
"4-H was an immense formative influence on me through participation and leadership opportunities in my 4-H Club and projects that helped me gain the confidence and learn the basic skills to effectively navigate college and professional life. Then, after a long absence from 4-H while we moved around the world, raised our family and followed my career, the chance to give back to the organization that gave so much to me in my youth, has been both an honor and a pleasure. It is so fulfilling to see both the reach and the individual impact 4-H continues to have on millions of young people today through a proven model of positive youth development," Borel says.
Categories: 2025
