February 2, 2021
Duane Hund Retiring After Nearly 36 Years
Duane Hund joined the Agricultural Economics Department in May 1985, as a Farm Analyst to help address the multitude of farm families that were struggling or in danger of losing their farms during the 1980s farm crisis.
For nearly 36 years Duane traveled the state of Kansas and sat at the kitchen tables of farm families. He put together financial statements of their current situation and then helped the family brainstorm and assess alternatives to their current business plan. While this may sound simple, at most kitchen tables there have been tears shed, fingers pointed, and feelings hurt, but through it all Duane remained the calm and unbiased voice of reason who used the data collected to help the family make informed decisions. His role as a Farm Analyst often took on additional duties of a family mediator and counselor. There are few people that are cut out for a position like this, but Duane excelled in his role.
Along with his demanding workload of clients, Duane did not hesitate to help with other KSRE programs. He was an active member of the Farm Management PFT, helping to assess the needs and guide the programs and resources that the K-State Agricultural Economics Department offers. Duane has been a speaker on many Farm Succession Extension programs and others related to the struggling farm economy.
If you have not already, please help us celebrate Duane's retirement by sending cards and well wishes to dhund@ksu.edu, or his home address at 32409B E. Springcreek Rd., Paxico, KS 66526.