United Soybean Board seeking nominations for leaders

April 14, 2022 – The United Soybean Board, which oversees the funds of the national checkoff, is seeking farmer-leaders to serve on the national board.

The mission of the soybean checkoff is to create value for U.S. soybean farmers by investing in research, education and promotion of U.S.-grown soy. Farmer-leaders are able to direct those investments through service on the board. The checkoff’s current return-on-investment of $12.34 back to farmers for each dollar invested demonstrates the checkoff’s efficacy in driving soybean profitability.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, which handles the nomination process, eligible nominees include “soybean producers within the U.S. who own or share ownership and risk of loss of soybean production.” Board members are required to attend the February, July and December meetings annually as well as various conference calls. Leaders volunteer their time to serve, but are reimbursed for travel expenses and expenses related to attending meetings and events on behalf of USB.

“We welcome all farmers to participate on our state and national soybean boards,” Polly Ruhland, USB CEO, says. “We’re at our best when we embrace and encourage different perspectives, which powers the soy checkoff’s ability to drive value and innovation beyond the bushel.”

The position is open to all individuals without regard to their protected statuses including race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or other protected information. KSC works to ensure that its nominees to USB reflect the diversity in the size of enterprise, experience, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors that represent Kansas soybean farmers.

Interested individuals in Kansas are asked to apply by noon on April 29. The interest form is available at www.kansassoybeans.org/forms. Questions about the nomination process or requirements to serve can be directed to KSC Administrator Kaleb Little at 785-271-1030.