Bloomington, Ill. – May 10, 2023 – The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) has hired two new team members this week: Cathy Payne as Executive Administrator to the CEO, and Maura Harrington as Guest Services Coordinator.
Harrington of Bloomington, Illinois, holds a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, and has over 25 years of experience in customer service. In her role, she will serve as a point of contact between employees, internal departments, board members and external parties, including vendors and contractors. Harrington will also handle clerical and administrative duties, provide support to all guests, assist with event needs and will ensure that the office operates smoothly.
“We are thrilled to have Maura joining our team as Guest Services Coordinator. Her experience, professionalism, and charisma will allow us to grow operational efficiency and expand our organization’s services to the Illinois soybean industry,” said Dustin Scott, Director of Operations for ISA. “I look forward to working with Maura and believe she will be a great asset to our board, staff, and Illinois farmers collectively.”
Payne of Lexington, Illinois, has over 25 years of experience working as an Administrative Assistant. She previously worked for State Farm as well as The Baby Fold and other local school districts. In her role, she will manage the CEO’s schedule as well as serve as a trusted advisor and brainstorming partner. Payne will also address pressing business issues that need immediate attention and support the CEO in the preparation of board and committee meetings, and high-level presentations.
Executive of Employee Relations, Nicole Butler, said, “ISA has seen a tremendous amount of growth over the past year and a half. Cathy’s previous experience working in an executive administrative environment makes her a great addition to our team, and we are thrilled to welcome her to ISA.”
The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) checkoff and membership programs represent more than 43,000 soybean farmers in Illinois. The checkoff funds market development, soybean production and government relations efforts, while the membership program, Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG) and the Illinois Soybean Growers PAC actively advocates for positive and impactful legislation for farmers at local, state and national levels. ISA upholds the interests of Illinois soybean farmers through promotion, advocacy, research and education with the vision of becoming a trusted partner of Illinois soybean farmers to ensure their profitability now and for future generations.
