Hutchens recently concluded a long career as executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board.
He joined the board, a long-standing USMEF member organisation, in 1987. He has also chaired a USMEF communications committee, which allowed him to become deeply involved in its strategic planning process, said Hutchens.
Gary Marshall, chief executive officer of the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, commented: "It was through Don’s leadership that the Nebraska Corn Board became one of the first commodity groups to invest in US meat exports."
Hutchens added: "Meat exports allow those in the grain industry to put a higher value on the commodity we produce, and it’s a win-win for both the grain industry and the livestock industry."
The award is given to someone in the red meat industry "who exemplifies the exceptional dedication and outstanding capabilities responsible for the Federation’s success".
The award will be given to Hutchens at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in Arlington, Virginia, on 6 November.