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Minnesota Corn Growers Association bolsters staff

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As part of its ongoing commitment to identifying opportunities for Minnesota’s 24,000 corn farmers while building connections with the non-farming public, the Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) recently announced the hiring of Brent Renneke as Public Relations Manager, in addition to the promotion of Meghan Doyle to Communications Director and Missy Gilbertson to Director of Grower Services.

“We couldn’t be more excited to both grow our communications staff and further strengthen our connections across Greater Minnesota,” MCGA Executive Director Adam Birr said. “It allows us to more efficiently identify opportunities and raise awareness of the tremendous impact of our state’s corn farmers.”

Brent Renneke

Brent Renneke

Renneke was hired as public relations manager after leading a similar role with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Prior to that, he led media relations initiatives at Minneapolis-based Carmichael Lynch Relate. The role’s responsibilities include telling the many great stories of Minnesota’s corn farmers to the non-farming public, while also spreading awareness of how the MCGA is working on the behalf of corn farmers. In addition, Renneke will lead the implementation of public relations strategies that will engage Minnesota mainstream media, bloggers and other influencers.

Meghan Doyle

Doyle was promoted to communications director in February after holding the position of communications manager since she first came to MCGA in 2013. In her new role, Doyle sets and executes strategy for communications, marketing and public relations messaging, as well as collateral that furthers the mission and strategic goals of MCGA. In addition, she will develop communications strategies and tactics that most effectively bring the message of the organization to all audiences. Prior to joining MCGA, Doyle worked for KMSP-TV as its community services coordinator and producer.

Missy Gilbertson

First starting with MCGA in 2003 as membership secretary, Gilbertson has grown with the organization over the years to become member and services manager before now being named director of grower services. In her new role, she will be leading the new District Field Managers program, as well as continue to oversee MCGA’s membership and compliance, Minnesota Department of Agriculture reporting and assisting in Minnesota corn events. Prior to joining MCGA, Gilbertson worked for Eau Claire, Wisc.-based Lorman Education Services as a seminar event planner.

MCGA has nearly 7,000 members and represents the interests of more than 24,000 corn farmers throughout Minnesota. The Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council (MCR&PC) administers the efficient and effective investment of Minnesota’s corn check-off. The shared mission of both organizations is to identify and promote opportunities for corn farmers, while building better connections with the non-farming public.

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