Danny Chen, senior secretary in the Taiwan office, retires on Friday, March 31, after nearly 38 years of working for the U.S. Grains Council (USGC). 

Chen joined the Council in 1979 with the primary responsibility of providing market information to the local industry including, including translation of the Council’s regular market reports. Chen’s role expanded over time as she became a prominent face in the local grain industry by working exhibition booths, meeting with visiting dignitaries and coordinating many industry events. 

Chen also helped orchestrate the first procurement of U.S. corn from the United States as well as helped introduce food barley to Taiwan. 

“We are family,” Clover Chang, USGC director of Taiwan said. “Her interpersonal skills benefitted us as her co-workers as well as built and maintained valuable relationships with local third party cooperators and the Taiwan Feed Industry Association.” 

USGC President and CEO Tom Sleight recorded a farewell message for Chen, which was played during her retirement ceremony in Taichung earlier in March as USGC Senior Director of Global Programs Cary Sifferath presented her with a recognition plaque. 

“You always epitomized the Council values of friendliness, of openness, of helpfulness,” Sleight said. “I just remember the smile always on your face in terms of your contribution to the Council’s Taiwan office and the ability to reach out and work with our valued customers in Taiwan. I thank you for your 38 years of service to USGC.”