United Sorghum Checkoff Program Executive Director Norma Ritz Johnson will retire at the end of the year. Johnson started the role in January 2021. Before joining the Sorghum Checkoff, she served as executive vice president of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and previously served as communications director for National Sorghum Producers. “After much thought and reflection, I’ve decided the end of this year is the right time for me to begin a new chapter,” Johnson says. “Serving sorghum farmers in this role has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.” Since joining the organization, Johnson has overseen initiatives that expanded market opportunities for U.S. sorghum, strengthened domestic and international partnerships, and increased consumer awareness. She also supported research investments across food, feed, and agricultural innovation. Tim Lust, CEO of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program and the National Sorghum Producers, says Johnson’s contributions have benefited both organizations and the broader sorghum industry. Lust is leading the search committee to find the next executive director.
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