Two Illinois soybean farmers reappointed to USSEC

SAN ANTONO — The 2026-2027 board of directors were announced at the U.S. Soybean Export Council annual meeting.

Illinois directors reappointed to serve included Roberta Simpson-Dolbeare, of Nebo, who will serve as vice chair, and Scott Gaffner, of Greenville, will serve as secretary.

USSEC’s board comprises 16 members: four director seats are appointed by the American Soybean Association, four seats are appointed by the United Soybean Board and the remaining eight seats are elected to represent trade, industry and state organizations of USSEC’s exporter and allied member classes.

Mike McCranie, a fourth-generation farmer who grows soybeans near Claremont in northeastern South Dakota, was elected USSEC board chair.

As chair, McCranie will guide the board in its priorities for the year ahead, helping to differentiate and elevate U.S. soy in the international marketplace.

“This is a huge honor and a role I am personally committed to,” he said. “With 58% of the U.S. soybean crop exported in the most recent marketing year, there’s tremendous opportunity to continue building demand and prioritizing international relationships.”

McCranie, who farms soybeans and corn with his wife, Monica, and their sons, Matthew and Mitchell, represents USB and is a member of USB’s Demand Action Team.

He is active in his community and church and is a member of numerous agricultural organizations, including the South Dakota Soybean Association and South Dakota Corn Growers Association.

“Relationships are critical to the work we do, and we are grateful for Mike and all our board leaders who volunteer their time and expertise and understand the power of trust and partnerships,” said Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO.

“From regional conferences to one-on-one technical expertise, it’s all about building trust and showcasing how customers benefit from using U.S. soy.”

Responsible for the international marketing of U.S. soy in 90-plus markets around the world, the board of directors of the USSEC are tasked with guiding the organization’s work to attain market access, differentiate and elevate preference for U.S. soy.