09/02/2026
NREC Selects Corey Lacey as Executive Director
The Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council (NREC) has selected Corey Lacey, Ph.D., as its new Executive Director.
Dr. Lacey brings experience spanning agricultural research, nonprofit leadership, public policy, and coalition development. He most recently served as Environmental Policy Manager for the Illinois Soybean Association, leading work at the intersection of nutrient stewardship, conservation, policy and farmer profitability.
Dr. Lacey’s connection to NREC began as a graduate researcher conducting NREC-funded research on nutrient management, cover crops and nitrogen cycling. He holds agriculture degrees including a Ph.D. from Purdue University, an M.S. from Illinois State University, and an undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas.
