Dianne Somers and Kevin Bula Earn Top Industry Honor

By Blake Jackson

Dianne Somers and Kevin Bula were recently inducted into the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Hall of Fame. This recognition was awarded during the WPVGA Annual Awards Banquet on February 5, 2025, in Stevens Point, celebrating their contributions to Wisconsin’s potato industry.

The WPVGA Hall of Fame acknowledges individuals who have significantly impacted the state's potato sector. Dianne Somers, co-owner of Plover River Farms Alliance, LLC, has been a dedicated advocate for the industry. She played a key role in establishing the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary (WPGA), which is marking its 50th anniversary in 2025. As a past president of WPGA, she has consistently supported the industry, serving on various committees, including the WPVGA Water Task Force and Promotions Committee.

Alongside her husband, Nick, Dianne has been involved in the Spud Bowl, a major fundraising event that has provided substantial support for student scholarships at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP). She has also been an active member of the UWSP Foundation Board and the Advisory Committee for the College of Fine Arts. Her efforts earned her the Mary Ann Nigbor Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016.

Dianne has also been instrumental in promoting the Healthy Grown program and supporting industry initiatives such as the Spudmobile and the Food + Farm Exploration Center. Over the years, she has received multiple awards, including the WPVGA Agri-Communicator Award in 2015.

Kevin Bula, a longtime inspector with the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program, has dedicated over four decades to ensuring seed potato quality. Growing up on a small farm in Antigo, Wisconsin, he learned from experienced professionals in the field and remained committed to fair and consistent inspections.

His work allowed him to travel and connect with many industry leaders. He has received several honors, including WPVGA’s Industry Appreciation Award and the Wisconsin Seed Potato Industry Leadership Award.

Through their lifelong commitment, both Somers and Bula have left a lasting impact on Wisconsin’s potato industry, making them deserving recipients of this prestigious recognition.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski