Dustin Stanton, BS
University of Missouri-Columbia
Dustin Stanton’s entrepreneurial journey began long before he earned a degree in agribusiness management from the University of Missouri-Columbia in December 2014. In fact, it began at age six in Centralia, Missouri, when he founded Stanton Brothers Eggs as an avenue to generate an allowance and with the hope of bringing his brother, Austin, into the business when he was old enough. Sixteen years later, he has done just that: Stanton Brothers Eggs is now recognized by the USDA and the FDA as the nation’s largest independent, free-range egg operation.
Stanton’s operation boasts more than 22,000 laying hens and sells to over 40 outlets including grocery stores, health food stores, dining halls, restaurants and bakeries, nursing homes and at farmers’ markets. In 2014, the business completed construction of the first European-style, automatic layer house in the Midwest. The facility includes automatic feeders, cool cells, fans, attic inlets, and a state-of-the-art nest system that automatically gathers eggs on a conveyor belt system.
“Many entrepreneurs have good ideas and a profitable business. Dustin’s philanthropic nature, drive to succeed, work ethic and outstanding interpersonal communications skills make him unique among his peers,” wrote nominator Michael Monson, associate professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics.
Stanton has provided keynotes at the Governor’s Conference on Agriculture, HyMax, Women in Ag, #Boom Conference, and to the Regional Economic Development, Inc. In 2012, he served as an agricultural representative for the National FFA Organization in Costa Rica as part of outreach on U.S. farming practices and, in 2014, was one of 12 collegiate representatives for the U.S. Grains Council to strengthen grain exports with Japan. He was also named the 2014 American Star in Agribusiness by the National FFA.
Reviewed 2019-10-01