Co-op Hall of Fame Tribute:  Honoring Mike Toelle's Cooperative Legacy

September 24, 2026 This episode continues our tribute to the 2026 Cooperative Hall of Fame Inductees with a special conversation featuring Mike Toelle. Vernon and Mike discuss his leadership in the creation and growth of CHS, the role of education and innovation in strengthening the cooperative system, and his cooperative journey. For more than 40 years, Mike Toelle has dedicated his time, energy, and vision to supporting cooperatives—from the farm fields of Minnesota to the international stage. A lifelong farmer and committed cooperative leader, Mike began his career with Harvest States Cooperatives before returning to his family farm and becoming one of the youngest directors elected to the Cenex Inc. Board of Directors. He later served on the core committee that helped create CHS Inc. in 1998 through the merger of Harvest States Cooperatives and Cenex. Mike went on to lead the boards of both CHS and the CHS Foundation, championing innovation, cooperative education, and the importance of connecting local cooperative leadership with the broader agricultural community. His leadership has extended beyond CHS to Cooperative Network, the Agriculture Council of America, CF Industries, and CIBO. Today, Mike serves as vice-chair of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, where he draws on his extensive experience in cooperative leadership, risk management, regulatory issues, and monetary policy.