Building a Legacy of Agricultural Excellence Since 1932

The mission of the CAFNR Foundation is to promote and further agricultural education and research in the State of Missouri in collaboration with the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) to accomplish goals of the College.

Empowering People, Advancing Knowledge, Strengthening Communities

From scholarships that open doors for students to achieve their career aspirations, to funding revolutionary research led by renowned scientists addressing critical challenges in agriculture, food systems and natural resources, the CAFNR Foundation’s influence is far-reaching.

We are committed to expanding opportunities for students, driving innovative discoveries and delivering transformative solutions that strengthen communities, industries and ecosystems across Missouri. This success is only possible through the dedication of our Board of Trustees, Foundation Members and the unwavering generosity of donors like you.

Our Vision

Since 1932

The CAFNR Foundation is the statewide leader in inspiring collaboration and support for Missouri agriculture, food systems and natural resources through its commitment to the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.

Board of Trustees

Our Board of Trustees consists of a diverse group of leaders from across Missouri who share a passion for agriculture and education. These volunteers contribute their expertise and energy to expand opportunities for students, fund vital research, build partnerships and promote the Foundation’s mission throughout the state. Their commitment ensures we can continue to shape the future of food production, environmental stewardship and community well-being.

Join Us

Are you passionate about advancing Missouri agriculture, food systems and natural resources? Consider joining the CAFNR Foundation Board of Trustees — or nominate a friend, family member or community leader who would be a great fit! To nominate yourself or someone you know, email info@cafnrfoundation.org by October 31. The nominating committee reviews all submissions and prepares a slate of candidates for election to vote on during the annual December meeting. View a complete description of trustee duties at CAFNRFoundation.org/TrusteeDuties.

2024 College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Foundation Trustees

Caleb Jones

President

Tracey Mershon

1st Vice President

2nd Vice President

Past President

Treasurer

Secretary


4 Executive Committee members appointed by the President


Permanent Trustee

Vice Chancellor/Dean Chris Daubert

Don Borgman

John Deere

Owner D&C Farms

Peter Hofherr, CFA, MBA, Ph.D.

St. James Winery and Public
House Brewing Co., CEO

Meagan Kaiser

Perry Agricultural Laboratory, Inc., Chief Operating Officer

Scott Hays

Missouri Pork Association, Executive Director


Kenny Hulshof

KBS Group, Partner & Chairman

Gary Wheeler

The Magnus Group, Co-Founder

Honorable Don Steen

River Ridge Farms, Owner

Missouri Department of Ag, Former Director

Former Member, Missouri House of Representatives, District 115

Derek Coats

Citizens to Elect Mike Kehoe, Campaign Manager

Robin Wenneker

Wenneker Properties, Managing Partner
University of Missouri Board of Curators, Chair
Mizzou Alumni Association, Past-President

Rob Guinn

FCS Financial, Chief Executive Officer

Garrett Hawkins

Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, President

Beau Hepler

Ray-Carroll County Grain Growers, Inc., General Manager

Bradley Schad

Missouri Corn, Chief Executive Officer

Anita Vanderwert

Agricultural Leadership of Tomorrow (ALOT), Executive Director

Chris Chinn

Missouri Department of Ag, Director

Bob Huffman

MFA Incorporated, President & Chief Executive Officer

Lucinda McRoberts

Prosecutor, Boone County Prosecutor’s Office

Casey Wasser

Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council & Missouri Soybean Association, Executive Director and CEO

CAFNR Alumni Association

Brett Wessler 

AgCall Inc., Sr. Account Manager

Don Copenhaver

Retired, MFA, Inc., CEO

Bill Jackson

Retired, AgriServices of Brunswick, Co-Owner

Gary Marshall

Retired, Missouri Corn Growers Association, CEO

Lowell Mohler

Retired, Missouri Department of Agriculture, Director and Missouri Department of Conservation, Chairman 

Don Nikodim 

Retired, Missouri Pork Association, Executive Director

John Saunders

Rangeline Farms, Owner
Missouri Department of Agriculture, Former Director

Paul Steele

University of Missouri Board of Curators, Past Chair

Bill Streeter

Retired, MFA, Inc., CEO

Steve Taylor

Missouri Agribusiness Association, Executive Director

Ed Turner

EST Enterprises, Co-Owner
University of Missouri Board of Curators, Past Chair

John Raines

Curator, University of Missouri Board of Curators

TELUS Digital Agriculture & Consumer Goods, Former President

CAFNR Foundation

Our Members

Originally, our members were exclusively graduates of the College. Today, the Foundation proudly includes friends of the College as well. Our members are respected figures within the agriculture and agribusiness community. They pay yearly dues that directly fund our initiatives and in return, they enjoy a variety of exclusive opportunities. Learn more about the benefits of becoming a member on our Membership page.

The Foundation’s Journey


Secret Link