Randall S. McGinnis
“Randy” McGinnis was born in 1958 near Cameron.
His first experience with dairying occurred when he was in high school – he started working on a dairy farm.
He continued his education at the University of Missouri where he received a degree in agricultural economics/dairy in 1981. His first professional job was with Elanco soon after leaving MU. He soon left Elanco to enroll at Iowa State University where he completed work for an MBA.
Randy remembers another learning experience when newly hired by Mid-America Dairymen in 1986 he was sent to MU to take part in Mike Cook’s week-long Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership – GICL.
In 1986 he joined Mid-America Dairymen as director of market analysis. From that job he was promoted to southeast division manager of member services later becoming division manager. In another move up the ladder he became vice president and chief operating officer of Dairy Farmers of America – DFA.
In still another move Randy became vice president and chief operating officer of DFA Central Council, Kansas City.
His current title and responsibility is chief operating officer central council, Kansas City.
Bob Marshall sought Randy’s nomination for leadership and asked three Missouri DFA patrons who have received Dairy Hall of Honors recognition to provide supporting statements.
Kenny Lenz, who received a leadership award last year, made these comments.
“As a producer in Randy’s region I have found him to be an outstanding representative for Missouri’s dairy industry and our dairy producers. In fact, I think he is the best chief operating officer in the country. He is a Missouri boy and an MU alumnus who has made good and I am proud to call him my friend.”
Ed Nierman, who received a leadership award in 1990 had these positive comments about Randy.
“I feel Randy, as a comparatively young cooperative leader, has a unique grasp of the entire dairy industry from procurement to processing to marketing. He is wiser than his years.”
Terry Long, executive secretary of the State Milk Board and holder of a 1995 meritorious leader award, had these comments.
“I have had the opportunity to work and associate with Randy both professionally and within the framework of various dairy associations for many years. I have found him not only a competent and motivated individual but also in my eyes to possess and demonstrate those leadership qualities that express the character portrayed by only a select few. This award will honestly bestow recognition of leadership when awarded to Randy.
The Missouri Dairy Association nominated Randy for the leadership award. He also holds memberships in Missouri Dairy Products Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, Missouri Dairy Growth Council, and National Milk Producers Association.
Randy married Cindy Boeye in 1983 and they have two sons – Ryan 17 and Kyle 13. They live in Platte City and are members of the Platte City Methodist Church.