Bill Stouffer

MFA Incorporated - Inducted in 2008

Bill Stouffer became involved with cooperative leadership in 1979 because he was dissatisfied with the cooperative's management practices. He felt decisions were too political. Rather than simply grumble about it, Bill Stouffer decided to run for the board and make his opinion heard. Bill became an invaluable asset to the cooperative and set MFA on a new direction based on sound business principles, with the farmer foremost in mind.

As a member of the corporate board of directors for MFA from 1979 to 1995, including two terms as board chair, Bill Stouffer epitomized excellence as a director. His preparation was flawless. He was willing to challenge management, but he did not micromanage. Bill brought stability and success to the cooperative during the turbulent time of an agricultural crisis and leadership change. In the midst of turmoil, he molded the board into a strategic entity. He is a strategic thinker capable of complex analysis. He is not afraid to make difficult decisions. Bill has a keen ability to press for appropriate action through consensus not confrontation by knowing when to end discussion and reach decisions for the good of the cooperative. Bill Stouffer was a willing champion for necessary change. He is a true visionary.

The same attributes that made Bill Stouffer an exceptional board director make him an outstanding state senator. He does the right things for the right reasons. 

Bill Stouffer was instrumental in the success of MFA Incorporated, and now serves our state with same level of integrity and purpose. He sets a standard for leadership that all should aspire to match, and few achieve.

exceptional leadership, ability to build consensus, strategic vision, commitment to serve farmer-members, and  outstanding public service on behalf of Missouri agriculture