BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Two Illinois soybean farmer leaders were elected to executive leadership positions with the U.S. Soybean Export Council during Commodity Classic in New Orleans.
Doug Winter of Mill Shoals was elected chairman and Stan Born of Mahomet was elected vice chairman of the USSEC Executive Committee.
USSEC’s board is comprised of 15 members representing various stakeholders from the U.S. soy industry. Four members are appointed from the American Soybean Association, four members are appointed from the United Soybean Board and seven sub-class seats are elected representing industry, state and trade organizations.
A fifth-generation farmer, Winter grows soybeans, corn and wheat on 3,200 acres.
“I am very proud to continue representing Illinois and U.S. soybean farmers as we work to increase U.S. soy’s reach and market share worldwide,” he said. “We look forward, with high energy and a passion, to creating and maintaining relationships with our global customers who rely on U.S. soy products.”
“The momentum we are developing as a council is second to none,” said newly elected Born.
“USSEC works hard to create preference for U.S. soy in markets all around the world. Our members benefit from the capability of the best team in the industry. USSEC represents our products and enables customers to see for themselves how U.S. soy is their best value option. I’m honored to serve with this team.”
USSEC members represent the soy supply chain including U.S. soy farmers, processors, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses and agricultural organizations.
USSEC is funded by the U.S. soybean checkoff, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service matching funds and industry. The appointments will run through the 2022-2023 year.