The nation's leading agricultural cooperative is turning the page. CHS owners elected five board members and tapped a new chair to guide the organization as it charts its next chapter in serving farmers and agricultural businesses across the country.
CHS held its annual meeting Dec. 4-5 in Minneapolis, where owners reelected Alan Holm of Minnesota, Kevin Throener of North Dakota, Hal Clemensen of South Dakota, Mark Farrell of Wisconsin, and Jerrad Stroh of Nebraska to three-year board terms. The cooperative also elected C.J. Blew of Kansas as the new board chair, succeeding Dan Schurr, who is stepping down after two decades of service.
Schurr's decision to move aside reflects a commitment to fresh leadership. "I believe strongly in the fresh thinking and new perspectives made possible through effective succession," Schurr said in a statement. His final term in 2026 will mark 20 years of dedication to CHS and the cooperative system.
Blew, stepping into the chair role, expressed enthusiasm about building on Schurr's foundation. "I am energized and excited to build on his legacy as we continue creating connections to empower agriculture through the strength of CHS and the cooperative system," Blew said.
The cooperative also elected a 16-member nominating committee tasked with identifying candidates for future board positions. The committee will recommend CHS Board candidates for the 2026 election, ensuring the organization continues attracting strong leadership from across its eight regions.
