Ray County soybean farmer Ronnie Russell was elected as the new president of the Missouri Soybean Association during the annual meeting in Jefferson City. Following his installation at the Commodity Classic Conference, Russell leads Missouri’s statewide advocacy organization for soybean growers.
“I look forward to bringing farmers together to strengthen the Missouri soybean industry,” Russell said. “We take pride in the work we do to address the challenges of Missouri soybean growers. We’re advocates for the industry and take that role seriously as we fight to protect farmers’ freedom to operate and their competitive advantage in the global marketplace.”
Russell will serve a one-year term as the association’s president, leading Missouri’s soybean policy, regulatory and outreach efforts on behalf of farmers across the state. Tom Raffety, of Cape Girardeau led the nominating committee.
In addition to Russell, the Missouri Soybean Association leadership team includes vice president Matt Wright, of Emden; secretary Renee Fordyce, of Bethany; and treasurer Peter Rost Jr., of New Madrid. Past president C. Brooks Hurst, of Tarkio, will continue to serve on the board of directors, representing District 1.
Prior to becoming president, Russell served as the association’s vice president. Russell also represents Missouri on the board of directors for the American Soybean Association.