U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins is set to deliver the keynote address at the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) Annual Meeting in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, November 11, at 9 a.m. The event will bring together hundreds of dairy farmers, cooperative leaders, and industry professionals for one of the sector’s most significant gatherings of the year.
The keynote is part of the Joint Annual Meeting hosted by NMPF in collaboration with the National Dairy Board and the United Dairy Industry Association. This year’s program is being held at the Loews Arlington Hotel and features several days of sessions and discussions on key industry challenges and opportunities.
Rollins to Address Future of Agriculture and Dairy Innovation
Rollins, who became the 33rd U.S. Secretary of Agriculture in February 2025, will share insights into federal agricultural policy, economic development, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the future of farming in the United States.
“Dairy farmers and their cooperatives extend a warm welcome to Brooke Rollins and appreciate the chance to hear from her and speak with her,” said Gregg Doud, President and CEO of NMPF. “As an energetic advocate for dairy and for all of agriculture, we can’t imagine a more exciting opportunity than to learn more from her on how USDA is building a stronger future for farmers and for the entire nation.”
Rollins brings a wide-ranging background in public policy and organizational leadership to the role. Before joining the U.S. Department of Agriculture, she was Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of the America First Policy Institute, a think tank that focuses on economic growth, national security, and rural development.
During the Trump administration, Rollins served as Director of the Domestic Policy Council and Assistant to the President for Strategic Initiatives. She also previously held the position of Director of the Office of American Innovation, where she oversaw the development and coordination of domestic policy priorities across various federal agencies.
Her experience managing national policy agendas and her focus on innovation and rural economic advancement are expected to be central themes of her address to the dairy sector.
A Gathering of Dairy Industry Leaders
The NMPF Annual Meeting attracts more than 750 dairy farmers, cooperative executives, and industry representatives from across the United States. The event serves as a platform for collaborative discussion on key issues affecting the dairy industry — from market trends and trade dynamics to workforce challenges and sustainability efforts.
This year’s program includes breakout sessions covering topics such as the economic outlook for dairy producers, labor availability, and environmental stewardship. Attendees are expected to exchange insights on how policy, technology, and market forces are shaping the future of U.S. dairy production.
The Joint Annual Meeting’s structure encourages participation across the dairy value chain, bringing together stakeholders from farm to retail in a forum designed to promote dialogue and alignment on industry priorities.
NMPF’s Role in the Dairy Sector
Founded in 1916, the National Milk Producers Federation serves as the policy and advocacy voice of the U.S. dairy industry. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the organization represents member cooperatives that collectively produce more than two-thirds of the nation’s milk supply.
NMPF works closely with federal policymakers to develop and advance strategies that strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of American dairy. Its members play a crucial role in shaping initiatives related to trade policy, farm bill programs, dairy pricing, and environmental compliance.
Through its partnerships with the National Dairy Board and United Dairy Industry Association, NMPF supports innovation and growth in dairy product marketing, research, and nutrition outreach.
Looking Ahead
As the agriculture sector faces mounting pressure from global market fluctuations, climate challenges, and evolving consumer preferences, Rollins’ keynote is expected to emphasize the importance of collaboration, modernization, and policy innovation in ensuring a resilient future for farmers and cooperatives.
The NMPF Annual Meeting will continue through Wednesday, November 12, offering opportunities for participants to engage in roundtable discussions, networking events, and strategy sessions focused on industry growth and sustainability.
For more information on the National Milk Producers Federation and its initiatives, visit www.nmpf.org.
