USRPA Staffing Updates: Buckler & Figueroa Assume New Leadership Roles; USRPA Welcomes Producer Relations Coordinator

US RICE PRODUCERS

KATY, TEXAS

This week, Mollie Buckler assumed the role of US Rice Producers Association's President and CEO. Buckler joined the USRPA team in 2021 and has served as the organization's Chief Operating Officer for nearly three years. Outgoing President and CEO Marcela Garcia will remain an advisor to USRPA. 

 A Sikeston, Missouri native, Buckler earned a B.A. in Classical Studies and an M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Missouri. After a decade working in higher education fundraising and alumni relations, Buckler returned home to the Missouri Bootheel in 2021 to join the US Rice Producers Association. Bringing a background in communications, relationship building, and legislative affairs, she quickly found a calling in agriculture. With deep roots in rice country and rice producers on both sides of her family, Buckler is dedicated to advocating for farmers and strengthening the future of the rice industry.

Stepping into the Chief Operating Officer role is Iris Figueroa, B.A. in Marketing, M.B.A., who will continue to lead the Association's Western Hemisphere activities, including the Rice Market & Technology Convention. Since joining USRPA in 2022, Figueroa has actively fostered and developed relationships with rice organizations and related businesses by traveling to various countries to engage with the rice industry, promote U.S. rice, and create marketing campaigns aimed at boosting rice consumption.

 Originally from Puerto Rico and currently residing in Texas, Figueroa shares that working in agriculture has been one of the best decisions of her career, "especially because of the people I get to work with and the farmers I have the privilege to support while doing what I love," she said. "I give special thanks to Marcela Garcia for her support and mentorship in helping me become who I am today."

USRPA also welcomed its new Producer Relations Coordinator this week, Gayla Rose. Rose is currently a senior at Texas A&M University pursuing a degree in Agricultural Leadership and Development. Originally from Liberty, Texas, she was named a USRPA Stoesser Scholar in 2023, recognizing her commitment to the future of agriculture. Rose brings valuable experience from her background working with agricultural cooperatives and the USDA Farm Service Agency, where she developed a strong foundation in producer services and agricultural policy. With a passion for supporting farmers and rural communities, she is excited to contribute to the mission of the US Rice Producers Association and further engage with rice producers across the country.

 "I'm thrilled to continue working with our amazing team and bring Gayla into the fold," Buckler said. "USRPA is well-equipped with a talented staff and trusted advisors. I hope our producers feel confident that they have a strong team advocating for them day in and day out."   ∆

US RICE PRODUCERS