The Missouri Soybean Association has announced that Ray County soybean farmer Ronnie Russell was elected president of the Missouri Soybean Association for the second time. Russell was elected to the position in Jefferson City Monday morning.

“It is an honor to have the support and trust and my fellow growers,” Russell said. “I’m excited for the opportunities ahead and impact the Missouri Soybean Association is having in Jefferson City.”

During his first term, Russell led the Association through policy efforts to grow demand for biodiesel across Missouri, improvements at the Bay Farm Research Facility and the grand opening of the Center for Soy Innovation in Jefferson City.

“We take pride in the work we do to address the challenges of Missouri soybean growers,” Russell said. “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.”

In addition to Russell, vice-president Matt Wright of Emden, secretary Renee Fordyce of Bethany, and treasurer Peter Rost, Jr. of New Madrid, were re-elected to second terms as the Association’s executive team. Andrew Lance of Barnard led the nomination during the Missouri Soybean Association meeting.

Prior to his presidency, Russell served as the Association’s vice-president. In addition to farming near Richmond, he and his wife, Robin, operate Russell Sunflower Patch. Russell also represents Missouri on the board of directors for the American Soybean Association.

To learn more about how the Missouri Soybean Association works to increase the profitability of Missouri soybean farmers through advocacy and education programs, and to join the Association, explore mosoy.org.