Corn Refiners Association Names Griggs-Bell Manager of Government Relations

Feb. 25, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) today announced that Gunnar Griggs-Bell has joined the organization as Manager of Government Relations. In this role, he will support the development and execution of strategic advocacy initiatives on behalf of CRA.

Griggs-Bell will work collaboratively with CRA's government relations, policy, and communications teams to advance the policy priorities of the corn wet-milling industry.

"Gunnar brings strong policy experience and a deep understanding of agricultural and manufacturing issues to our team," said CRA President and CEO John Bode. "His background in legislative research, stakeholder engagement, and coalition coordination will be a valuable asset as we advocate for policies that support innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness across our industry."

Griggs-Bell most recently served as a Graduate Assistant in the Dean's Office at Texas A&M University's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, where he supported executive leadership through strategic communications, briefing preparation, and high-level coordination. He previously interned for Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, where he drafted policy materials, monitored federal legislative developments, and supported advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.

"I am honored to join the Corn Refiners Association at such an important time for agriculture and American manufacturing," said Griggs-Bell. "CRA plays a critical role in advancing policies that support innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. I look forward to working with our members, state and federal partners, and coalition allies to help promote the value of corn refining in communities across the country."

Griggs-Bell earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications and Political Science from Texas Tech University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Service and Administration at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University.

Barbee, Beck Assume New Titles

CRA is also pleased to announce new titles to better reflect the responsibilities of Keniece Barbee and Danielle Beck.

Barbee is now CRA's Chief Operating Officer. In this role, she ensures operational efficiency and promotes exceptional service to CRA's Board of Directors and member company employees. Barbee was most recently CRA's Chief of Staff and has held various roles with CRA since first joining the association as an executive assistant in 2016.

Beck is now CRA's Vice President of External Affairs. This new title better reflects her broader focus on CRA's government affairs, communications, and strategic positioning with external stakeholders to promote a cohesive vision to advance CRA priorities. Beck joined CRA in 2025 as Vice President of Government Relations.

###

About the Corn Refiners Association
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, starch, advanced bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein and fiber.