The UFC Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Ryan Ponwith as an associate board member.
In this one-year role, Ryan will serve as a non-voting advisor, gaining insights into board operations while lending his expertise in representing younger growers.
Although new to the board, Ryan is no stranger to UFC. He first joined as a summer intern in 2010 before being brought on full-time as an agronomist from 2012-2021. Ryan and his wife Emily now operate their own farm in Le Sueur County growing corn, soybeans, and finishing hogs while running a retail beef operation and agribusiness consulting firm helping growers improve their finances.
Ryan represents a younger grower demographic. With few full-time growers in his age bracket, his firsthand experience and insight will inform board decisions impacting the next generation of co-op members.
“I’m highly interested in making an impact in agriculture. The industry is always changing, and I want to help influence that change for a better future especially as it relates to the cooperative system,” said Ryan.
“The UFC board of directors is committed to securing the coop’s lasting success for its member-owners. Ryan’s role as an associate board member will engage the next generation of growers while facilitating leadership succession planning. His participation strengthens both the present and future of UFC. We’re happy to have him!” said Chairman Jeff Manderscheid.
Ryan, his wife Emily, and their three children reside in Cleveland, MN. We are excited to have Ryan on board and look forward to the knowledge he will bring!