February 18, 2021

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, in reaction to the passing of Steve Smith, John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association, commented:

“American agriculture lost one of its great men when COVID-19 took Indiana’s Steve Smith away from us last night. As Senior Director for Agriculture at Red Gold Foods, Steve played a critical role, but his influence was industry-wide and substantial. An honored alum of Purdue, Steve shared his masterful knowledge of production of both specialty crops and America’s leading row crops, as well as means of navigating the sometimes-challenging intersection between the two. Steve was persistently kind to everyone while remaining committed to recognizing hard truths when necessary, whether speaking at a farm gate or in the office of the Secretary of Agriculture. He loved his family, gave friends barnyard fresh eggs, and regularly took vacations to build housing for disadvantaged Americans. We are diminished by Steve’s loss, but should be inspired by his example. Deepest condolences to Steve’s family.”

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The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, starch, advanced bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein and fiber.