Norma Ritz Johnson Announces Retirement From Sorghum Checkoff Executive Director Role
For more information, contact:
Clint White
Director of Communications
United Sorghum Checkoff Program
clint@sorghumcheckoff.com
For Immediate Release
July 9, 2026
Norma Ritz Johnson Announces Retirement From Sorghum Checkoff Executive Director Role
LUBBOCK, Texas (July 9, 2026) — United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP) Executive Director Norma Ritz Johnson has informed the organization’s Board of Directors of her decision to retire from that role at the end of 2026, following a distinguished career in agriculture, organizational management and community leadership.
Johnson became the USCP’s third executive director in January 2021. Prior to joining the Sorghum Checkoff, she served as executive vice president of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and previously served as communications director for National Sorghum Producers.
“After much thought and reflection, I’ve decided the end of this year is the right time for me to begin a new chapter,” Johnson said. “Serving sorghum farmers in this role has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together and grateful for the producers, board members, staff and industry partners who have made this work so rewarding. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition and remaining engaged in efforts that advance the sorghum industry and agriculture wherever my experience and perspective can be of service.”
Since joining the organization in 2021, Johnson has overseen initiatives that expanded market opportunities for U.S. sorghum, strengthened domestic and international partnerships, increased consumer awareness, and supported research investments across food, feed and agricultural innovation.
“Norma has led this organization with integrity, professionalism and a deep commitment to serving sorghum farmers,” said Kim Baldwin, chair of the USCP Board of Directors. “Her impact extends beyond the programs and initiatives advanced during her tenure. She strengthened relationships across the industry, elevated the work of the Sorghum Checkoff and helped position the organization for continued success. On behalf of the Board, I thank Norma for her leadership and years of dedicated service.”
Tim Lust, CEO of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program and the National Sorghum Producers, said Johnson’s contributions have benefited both organizations and the broader sorghum industry.
“Norma’s connection to the sorghum industry spans decades, and throughout her career she has worked to advance opportunities for sorghum producers. Her leadership, experience and steady hand have been invaluable. She has built strong partnerships, championed producer interests and helped strengthen the industry’s future. We are grateful for her service and wish her the very best in retirement,” Lust said.
Johnson will continue serving as executive director through the end of the year while working with the Board and staff to support an orderly transition.
The Board of Directors has formed a search committee, led by Lust, to guide the process of identifying the organization’s next executive director. The committee will begin its work in the coming months, and additional details will be shared as appropriate.
###
About the United Sorghum Checkoff Program
The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is a producer-funded organization dedicated to improving the sorghum industry through research, promotion and education. For more information about USCP and other research projects, visit SorghumCheckoff.com.
