SSGA elects executive team

Petrich to chair newly formed organization

The Specialty Soya and Grain Alliance (SSGA) held its first board meeting following the formation of the organization. SSGA is a consolidation of the Northern Food Grade Soybean Association (NFGSA) and Midwest Shippers Association (MSA).

Business items included formation of a strategic plan, identity, committees and membership structure. Election of officers to serve in the upcoming year were also held.

Curt Petrich was voted to serve as the Chairman of the board. He is the owner/partner of HC International, based in Fargo, ND.

“I look forward to the challenge of leading SSGA as we position ourselves as a market leader in the global food industry.” Petrich said. “Now that we have a board and leadership in place, SSGA will focus on helping our members develop markets for their value-added crops, as well as assist our customers get access to our products. We will build an organization that attracts membership and we will stay focused on the needs of the membership.”

Bob Sinner, SB&B, Inc., will serve as the vice chairman. Keith Schrader, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council director for District 8, was voted to serve as secretary/treasurer.

Sinner said the SSGA board is turning its attention to expanding membership, which includes specialty grains and identity-preserved soybean producers, processors, genetic/seed providers, export traders, international export companies and qualified state soybean boards (QSSBs).

“We invite new members to get involved and take advantage of the production, processing and shipping resources and benefits of SSGA membership,” Sinner said. “Our members are business men and women, so we’ve tailored our committees in a way that members can give input without giving up enormous amounts of their valuable time.”