Brent Gatton of Bremen, Kentucky, was elected chair of the United Soybean Board (USB) during the board’s December meeting in St. Charles, Missouri. Gatton, a fifth-generation farmer, will lead the board alongside nine newly elected farmer-leaders on the Executive Committee for the upcoming year.
“Farmers have weathered a year marked by real economic uncertainty, and I’m privileged to step into this role at such a pivotal moment,” Gatton said. He emphasized the Soy Checkoff’s focus on protecting markets, accelerating new uses, and promoting sustainability to keep U.S. soybean farmers competitive globally.
The Executive Committee includes Vice Chair Matt Gast of North Dakota, Treasurer Susan Watkins of Virginia, Secretary Tom Frisch of Minnesota, and members from Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, and Mississippi.
With seven years on the USB and leadership roles including Vice Chair and Treasurer, Gatton brings extensive experience. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the Kentucky Soybean Board and holds local leadership positions.
In 2026, Gatton plans to drive investments across food, feed, fuel, industrial uses, exports, and sustainable production to grow demand and resilience for nearly half a million U.S. soybean farmers. He aims to enhance communication, education, and partnerships with state soybean boards to strengthen U.S. Soy’s
