Cowan Joins NCGA Staff; Keelin Named Development Manager (4-17-06)

Kelly Cowan joins the National Corn Growers Association today as manager of membership services. She fills the position vacated by Byron Keelin, who has filled the position for NCGA development manager.

“The NCGA marketing staff is excited to have Kelly join our team as Manager of Member Services,” said Fred Stemme, NCGA vice president of marketing. “She brings a strong background in leadership training skills, solid fundraising knowledge and retail sales and management experience.”

Cowan will be responsible for providing membership service and support to NCGA, state affiliates, checkoff boards and general membership. Additionally, she will oversee all NCGA leadership development efforts, as well as assist in various aspects of revenue development.

“I am looking forward to working with NCGA members and states,” said Cowan, who most recently served as managing director of the Retail Management Institute in St. Louis. “I am also thrilled to be a part of such an important organization and working for our nation’s corn growers.”

Keelin will manage development efforts, with a special focus on checkoff board funding, foundation/government grants and special events. He has been with NCGA for five years.

“The move is an exciting opportunity, and I look forward to working with our checkoff organizations,” said Keelin.

“Byron’s move to the development manager position allows NCGA to capitalize on his five years of experience with NCGA and knowledge of our programs as we seek to further leverage farmer-investments,” Stemme said. “NCGA staff is glad that Byron accepted this new challenge.”