ARLINGTON, VA — Indiana dairy farmer Brian Rexing, a long-time member of the Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) cooperative, has been elected the 15th Chairman of the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF). The announcement came Tuesday during NMPF’s Joint Annual Meeting in Arlington, Texas, where hundreds of dairy farmers, cooperative leaders, and industry representatives gathered to discuss the future of the U.S. dairy sector.
Rexing, who succeeds Randy Mooney after his 17-year tenure, was selected by NMPF’s Board of Governors and will lead the organization at a pivotal time for the dairy industry, as it continues to navigate challenges related to labor, markets, and sustainability.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your chairman,” said Rexing in his first remarks after the appointment. “I may be stepping into this role, but it isn’t about me. It’s about who we represent, and the future we’re building together.”
From Family Farm to Industry Leadership
Rexing and his wife, Ranell, operate New Generation Dairy near Owensville, Indiana. The fourth-generation farmer manages a 1,200-cow operation and 3,500 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa. The couple has four children and are deeply involved in agricultural leadership in their community.
Rexing’s experience extends beyond his family farm. He serves as Vice President of the Evansville Young Dairymen, was named Indiana Dairy Producer of the Year in 2010, and purchased a local meat processing plant and retail store in 2021. Within DFA, Rexing holds a seat on the cooperative’s Executive Committee, bringing national policy and production experience to his new role at NMPF.
Mooney’s Legacy and Continued Service
Outgoing Chairman Randy Mooney, who also chairs the Dairy Farmers of America cooperative, received recognition from industry peers for his nearly two decades of service leading NMPF. Under his guidance, the organization has strengthened its policy influence in Washington and advanced programs supporting dairy producers nationwide.
“It is one of the great honors of my life to work alongside so many dedicated farmer-leaders who care deeply about the future of dairy,” said Mooney. “I’m proud to pass the baton to Brian Rexing — a leader who carries forward the spirit of dedication, vision, and integrity that defines NMPF and our entire industry.”
Mooney will continue to serve on NMPF’s Executive Committee, ensuring continuity of leadership and support for Rexing as the organization transitions to new priorities.
New Leadership Team Elected
Alongside Rexing’s appointment, NMPF members elected a new Executive Committee and slate of officers to help guide the federation’s policies and programs. The committee includes:
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Chairman: Brian Rexing – Dairy Farmers of America
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1st Vice Chairman: Cricket Jacquier – Agri-Mark
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2nd Vice Chairman: Simon Vander Woude – California Dairies Inc.
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Secretary: Craig Caballero – United Dairymen of Arizona
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Treasurer: Pete Kappelman – Land O’Lakes
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Members: Sheryl Meshke (AMPI), Rob Vandenheuvel (California Dairies Inc.), Melvin Medeiros (DFA), Randy Mooney (DFA), Joel Eigenbrood (Foremost Farms), Brian Hemann (Lone Star), Jon Cowell (Maola Local Dairies), Doug Chapin (Michigan Milk Producers Association), Frank Doll (Prairie Farms), and Jacob Larson (Southeast Milk Inc.).
The leadership team will be responsible for advancing NMPF’s advocacy efforts, including federal dairy policy, market access, environmental regulation, and support for rural communities.
Focus on Policy, Innovation, and Industry Growth
The Joint Annual Meeting, co-hosted with the National Dairy Board and the United Dairy Industry Association, attracted approximately 750 attendees from across the United States. The opening day featured discussions on dairy policy, sustainability, workforce issues, and the evolving global dairy market.
Delegates also approved NMPF’s policy positions and elected new members to the Board of Directors. Newly approved directors include Amy Humphreys (Northwest Dairy Association), Kurt Williams (Lanco Pennland), Stephen Mancebo (Land O’Lakes), Brian Hemann (Lone Star Milk Producers), and Will Dyt (California Dairies Inc.).
Two long-serving former directors, Jim Werkhoven of the Northwest Dairy Association and Joey Fernandes of Land O’Lakes, were recognized with Honorary Directors for Life awards for their service to the organization and the industry.
Supporting the Next Generation of Dairy Leaders
The NMPF meeting also coincided with the federation’s Young Cooperators Leadership and Development Program, an initiative aimed at cultivating future leaders in the dairy industry. Additionally, the event featured NMPF’s annual cheese contest, with winners to be announced on the final day of the conference.
Continuing a Legacy of Leadership
As Rexing takes the helm, NMPF members emphasized the importance of steady leadership in a time of change. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and strengthening farmer representation, the new chairman is expected to continue building on the organization’s long-standing mission to support the dairy community.
Founded in 1916 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the National Milk Producers Federation represents the policy interests of dairy cooperatives that collectively produce more than two-thirds of the milk in the United States.
Under Rexing’s leadership, NMPF will continue to advocate for the industry’s growth, promote sustainability, and ensure the next generation of dairy farmers remains resilient in a changing agricultural landscape.
