Soybean Farmers Welcome Iowa Native to National Soybean Leadership

Soybean Farmers Welcome Iowa Native to National Soybean Leadership

July 23, 2026 | Brock Johnston

Ankeny, Iowa - The selection of Iowa native Courtney Knupp as the next chief executive officer of the United Soybean Board (USB) brings national soybean leadership a little closer to home for Iowa farmers.

Knupp currently serves as director of global supply chain at the National Security Council. USB's board of farmer-leaders, representing Iowa and other soybean-producing states, ratified the decision at their July board meeting in Indianapolis.

"Strong leadership is essential for the United Soybean Board," says Suzanne Shirbroun, ISA past president and USB director from Farmersburg. "While we're a farmer-led organization, it's just as important to have a CEO who understands agriculture, the challenges farmers face, and the opportunities ahead for our industry. Courtney's Iowa roots and work experience are especially meaningful, and she understands the importance of making sure farmers see a return on their checkoff investment."

Knupp brings nearly two decades of experience spanning agriculture, international trade, public policy and market development. In her role with the National Security Council, Knupp has worked to strengthen U.S. agriculture and previously served as senior policy advisor to the U.S. Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Agriculture on trade and food safety. She has previously held positions with the National Pork Board and as director of global animal and aquaculture nutrition with the U.S. Soybean Export Council, leading strategy to increase the value of U.S. soybean and soybean meal exports. Earlier in her career, Knupp held chief of staff roles at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, led international trade policy for the National Pork Producers Council and held commercial roles at BASF and Elanco Animal Health.

She grew up on her family's farm in Washington County, Iowa, where she remains engaged, and earned her bachelor's degree in agricultural business from Iowa State University in Ames.

"There's no doubt in my mind that Courtney will put the farmer first in every decision," adds Robb Ewoldt, ISA past president and USB director from Davenport. "She brings a fresh perspective to the organization and is focused on continuing to strengthen cooperation across our industry at every level."

Iowa's delegation of farmer-leaders currently serving on the USB board of directors includes Suzanne Shirbroun (Farmersburg); Robb Ewoldt (Davenport); Tim Bardole (Rippey); and Brent Renner (Klemme).

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Funded by the soybean checkoff.

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