Schaefer named Executive Director of Minnesota Farm Bureau

Karin Schaefer has been named Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation’s (MFBF) executive director and will manage and coordinate all activities of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation and Affiliated Companies effective June 1.

For the past eight years, Karin has served as the executive director of the Minnesota Beef Council. Prior to that Karin worked for six years for the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation as the Public Relations associate director and working with the Young Farmers & Ranchers and Promotion & Education Committees. Karin and her husband Matt are active members in the Wright County Farm Bureau.

“Karin’s vision, background and understanding of the issues facing agriculture and Farm Bureau will enable her to immediately step into the role of executive director” said MFBF President Kevin Paap. “She is the perfect fit to help Minnesota Farm Bureau accomplish our mission to be an advocate for agriculture driven by the beliefs and policies of our members.”

Karin and her family farm near Howard Lake in Wright County raising beef cattle and growing crops. Karin and Matt also own and operate an agricultural and commercial fencing company, Grassland Solutions. Karin has a bachelor of science degree in speech communications and mass communication with a minor in general agriculture from North Dakota State University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Crown College. Karin’s experience also includes working for USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in public relations and soil conservation. Karin is an active 4-H adult volunteer, active in her church and involved in the school PTA. Karin and Matt have three children.

“I am thrilled to be stepping back into the Farm Bureau organization. My previous work experience with the Minnesota Farm Bureau and my role at the Minnesota Beef Council, has provided great examples of how to effectively lead a team, while serving as a conduit between a board of directors and the organization’s staff and members,” said Karin. “Agriculture is in the midst of extremely challenging times. Farm Bureau needs to be ready to assist our members and navigate this unique situation. I look forward to that opportunity.”