Third-Generation Farmer to Lead Board; Kenny Bergmann to Serve as Vice Chairperson
FCS Financial, Missouri’s leading agricultural lending cooperative, today announced that its Board of Directors has elected Beth Schnitker as the new Board Chairperson. Schnitker has served on the FCS Financial board since 2018.
The election follows the decision by longtime Chairperson Kenny Bergmann to voluntarily step down from the leadership position. Bergmann, an advocate for leadership development, made the change to create opportunities for others to lead the cooperative. He will now serve as Vice Chairperson to ensure a smooth and effective transition.
"Beth’s dedication to our member-owners and her strategic vision make her the ideal choice for Board Chairperson," said Rob Guinn, CEO of FCS Financial. "Her deep roots in Missouri agriculture give her a powerful understanding of the needs of our members. I also want to commend Kenny Bergmann for his exceptional leadership as Chairperson and for his principled decision to foster new leadership growth within our board. His continued service as Vice Chairperson speaks volumes about his character and commitment to our cooperative."
Schnitker, a third-generation farmer, brings a lifetime of hands-on agricultural experience to her new role. She and her husband, Herb, operate a farm in Audrain County consisting of a commercial cow-calf operation and raising corn, soybeans, and wheat. Their two daughters have joined the operation as fourth-generation farmers, continuing the family’s legacy.
"I am honored by the trust the board has placed in me," said Schnitker. "I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by leaders like Kenny and am especially grateful for Kenny’s mentorship and continued presence on the board as Vice Chairperson. I am committed to ensuring FCS Financial remains steadfast in its mission to support Missouri agriculture and rural communities."
Bergmann, who has been a board member since 2010 and Chairperson since 2018, commented on the transition. "It has been a privilege to serve as Chairperson of FCS Financial. I have always felt very strongly that providing opportunities for new leadership is vital for the health of any organization. The time is right to pass the torch, and I have full confidence in Beth’s ability to lead the board. I am pleased to support her in my new role as Vice Chairperson."
