Sikeston native named president, CEO of US Rice Production Association

U.S. Rice Producers Association, or USRPA, announced new leadership, including a Sikeston native.

According to a news release from USRPA, the organization’s board of directors selected Mollie (Landers) Buckler to serve as its new president and CEO, making her the first USRPA president and CEO to reside in the Mississippi Delta region.

Buckler joined the USRPA staff in 2021 and has held the position of chief operating officer since 2022, where she oversaw the company’s communications strategy and supported domestic and international programs. Buckler will be replacing Marcela Garcia, who is stepping down effective Monday, Sept. 1. Garcia said that Buckler has been a true leader at USRPA.

“Her strategic mindset and ability to build relationships will serve the organization well,” Garcia said.

Buckler is a two-time graduate from the University of Missouri and has agricultural roots on both sides of her family, including in rice production. According to the Show Me Times, Buckler’s family has been growing rice since the 1960s — the same time rice farming became popular in Missouri. She also serves as USRPA’s liaison for Mississippi Delta area producers and works with the Missouri Rice Council.

Zoe Lewis is a Report for America corps member who covers rural life for the Southeast Missourian. Report for America is a national service program that matches local newsrooms with reporters who provide in-depth coverage of under-reported issues and communities. Report for America covers about half of Zoe’s salary; the Southeast Missourian newsroom covers the rest.