JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri Soybeans is pleased to welcome Abby Shaffer to the team full time as the new communications coordinator – research and innovation. In her new role, Shaffer will help communicate the research, agronomy and innovation investments Missouri soybean farmers are making to advance the industry and improve opportunities for producers.
Shaffer is no stranger to Missouri Soybeans, having joined the organization this summer as its policy intern. During her internship, she gained experience working alongside staff and farmer-leaders while supporting policy initiatives and advocacy efforts on behalf of Missouri soybean producers.
“We are excited to welcome Abby back to Missouri Soybeans in a full-time capacity,” said Casey Wasser, CEO and executive director of Missouri Soybeans. “Throughout her internship, Abby demonstrated an ability to understand complex issues and communicate why they matter to farmers. As our investments in research and innovation continue to grow, having someone dedicated to telling those stories will help us better demonstrate the value of soybean checkoff investments and connect important research back to the farm.”
As the communications coordinator – research and innovation, Shaffer will work closely with Missouri Soybeans’ communications, research and agronomy teams to develop content highlighting farmer-funded research, emerging technologies and innovations across the soybean industry. Located at the Farm for Soy Innovation, her responsibilities will include developing written and digital content, supporting communications surrounding research projects and field activities, and helping translate technical information into relevant, accessible stories for Missouri soybean farmers and industry partners.
“After spending the summer with Missouri Soybeans, I saw firsthand what it looks like to turn ideas into real opportunities for farmers,” said Shaffer. “I’m excited to return to a team that is actively moving agriculture forward and have the opportunity to contribute to that work. For me, this is a chance to make a meaningful impact in an industry I care deeply about.”
A native of Troy, Missouri, Shaffer earned her bachelor’s degree in agricultural education with an emphasis in communications and leadership from the University of Missouri. She remains at the University, where she is currently pursuing a Master of Science in agricultural education, leadership and communication.
Her background in agricultural communications, combined with the experience gained during her Missouri Soybeans internship, will support the organization’s efforts to more closely connect research outcomes with the farmers who invest in and benefit from that work.
For more information about Missouri Soybeans and its research investments, visit mosoy.org.