Minnesota Soybean Directors Enhance Global Markets Through Soy Excellence Panel

The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) is actively involved in fostering emerging markets and boosting the demand for U.S. Soy worldwide. Two council directors, Joel Schreurs and Gail Donkers, are contributing to this cause by participating in an advisory panel for the Soy Excellence Center (SEC). This center, supported by checkoff programs, equips developing nations with the necessary tools and resources to advance their food and agribusiness sectors.

Schreurs, who recently completed his term as secretary of the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) board, has been appointed to represent USSEC on the SEC’s Global Advisory Panel. Additionally, he has been elected as the treasurer of SEC during a meeting at Commodity Classic in Denver. Donkers, serving as the vice chair of MSR&PC, has also been selected to represent the council on the SEC’s Global Advisory Panel.

The SEC, established in 2019 with backing from state and national organizations including MSR&PC, focuses on transforming emerging markets into success stories by enhancing the capacity and market opportunities of international food and agriculture enterprises. Its primary objective is to elevate soy’s global standing as a catalyst for positive change. Operating across five international facilities, the SEC offers training and capacity-building initiatives along soy’s value chain to bolster industry capabilities in approximately two dozen countries spanning the Americas, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East & Northern Africa. The center collaborates with global experts to deliver specialized training in poultry, feed milling, swine, and aquaculture.

USSEC CEO Jim Sutter commended the SEC for its role in stimulating demand for soy, exceeding expectations with its impact. Former Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) Director Bill Gordon, who retired in 2024, previously served on the SEC. Schreurs, a longstanding member of SEC’s Steering Committee for the Americas, intends to continue his efforts within the region. He shared his profound experience of witnessing firsthand the transformative effects of soy checkoff investments on livelihoods worldwide.

Donkers, attending her inaugural meeting with the SEC Panel at Commodity Classic, expressed enthusiasm for representing Minnesota on a global platform and utilizing her teaching skills to contribute positively. She emphasized the importance of empowering individuals through education and tools, underscoring her commitment to advancing new markets in alignment with SEC’s mission. Donkers also represents MSR&PC on the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance board.

The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, a farmer-led board comprising 15 members, manages checkoff investments on behalf of the state’s nearly 26,000 soybean farmers. Governed by federally mandated checkoff regulations, the Council channels funds to promote, educate, and create market opportunities for soybeans, thereby supporting the industry’s growth and sustainability.