Egna Rodriguez was the first employee hired when the U.S. Grain Council (USGC) opened its Western Hemisphere regional office in Panama City, Panama, in 2010. A decade later, the organization recognized her for 10 years of service during the organization’s 17th International Marketing Conference and 60th Annual Membership Meeting last week in Tampa, Florida.
“I’m very grateful for the Council’s teamwork environment,” Rodriguez said. “Whether the CEO, vice president, director, manager or coordinator, anyone can step in and do a task to help out at any time. Everybody puts their efforts together, and that’s why we succeed.”
Rodriguez’s work with the Council has evolved over time. Hired originally as an administrative assistant, she dealt with day-to-day operations and supported programs. She was promoted to regional programs manager in 2015 and took on heavy involvement in budgeting, meeting itineraries, implementation and logistics.
“Everyone who has met or worked with Egna always has glowing reviews, especially citing her attention to detail, friendly attitude and willingness to help out where needed,” said Marri Tejada, USGC regional director for Latin America. “She’s had many nicknames over the years, but the ‘enforcer’ is my favorite.Tagged by a USGC member, it’s a great example of care and knowledge that she puts into everything she does for the Council.”
Rodriguez takes particular pride in planning regional buyers and animal nutrition conferences. No matter the topic, she admires the Council’s ability to work together with members, staff and customers over the years.
“I’m proud of the Council’s teamwork to accomplish tasks,” Rodriguez said. “The Council staff coordinates with one another very well and are adaptable.”
About The U.S. Grains Council
The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability. Detailed information about the Council and its programs is online at www.grains.org.