The Missouri Cattlemen's Association (MCA) has named Mike Deering as its new executive vice president. He will assume the position on Sept. 23. Deering currently serves as head of communications for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's (NCBA) policy division in Washington, D.C. MCA President and cattleman Lonnie Duckworth from Butler, Mo., said Deering's vast experience with agricultural associations accompanied by his unwavering passion for Missouri's farm and ranch community makes him uniquely qualified to move MCA forward.

"He has proven himself as a transformational leader at NCBA and we are thrilled to have that kind of leadership for our state," said Duckworth. "Mike is a fighter for the American farmer and rancher and truly believes agriculture is the single most important industry to sustaining life on this planet. We need that kind of passion, loyalty and determination."

Originally from Savannah, Mo., Deering grew up on a diversified family farming operation with cattle, row crops and hay. Deering graduated with an associates from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M Junior College, a bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri and a master's from Oklahoma State University. He previously served as the director of special programs and promotions for the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation; editor of the Western Livestock Journal; director of news services for the American Farm Bureau Federation; and head of communications for the U.S. Grains Council. He said he is ready for the next challenge.

"I'm ready. There is tremendous opportunity for MCA to reintroduce itself as the definitive voice and trusted leader for Missouri cattlemen and women," said Deering. "From burdensome and unneeded regulations coming from partisan bureaucrats to an onslaught of extremist groups trying to end production agriculture, the challenges are many, but with a vibrant state association, we will secure the future of the Missouri cattle industry."

Source: MCA