US Rice Producers Association Announces New Leadership

July 10, 2025

At their recent summer meeting in Galveston, TX the US Rice Producers Association (USRPA) Board of Directors selected Mollie Buckler to serve as the new President and CEO, replacing Marcela Garcia, who is stepping down effective September 1, 2025. Buckler joined the USRPA staff in 2021 and has held the position of Chief Operating Officer since 2022.

A two-time graduate of the University of Missouri and native of the Missouri Bootheel, Buckler’s agricultural roots run deep on both sides of her family, including rice production. Buckler and her family currently reside in Sikeston, MO, making her the first USRPA President and CEO to reside in the Delta.

“After 16 incredible years with USRPA, including the past four as President and CEO, I’m filled with pride at all we’ve accomplished together and confidence in what lies ahead,” Garcia said. “Mollie has been a true leader at USRPA since day one, and her commitment to our producers is unmatched. Her strategic mindset and ability to build relationships will serve the organization well.” Garcia will serve in an advisory role for the organization, beginning September 1.

The USRPA board also elected new officers for 2023-2025. Eric Hover of Harviell, MO will serve as Chairman. Mark Pousson from Welsh, LA, will serve as Vice Chairman and Galen Franz of Victoria, TX is the new Secretary-Treasurer. The board thanked Neal Stoesser from Raywood, TX for his service to the association during the past two years.

The leading voice for the U.S. rice producer, US Rice Producers Association, representing rice producers in Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Texas, is the only national rice producers’ organization comprised of producers, elected by producers, and representing producers in all six major rice-producing states.

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