(NAFB.com) – USDA’s Chief Economist Seth Meyer will join the University of Missouri on January 1, 2026, to lead the internationally recognized Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute. Pat Westhoff, who’s held the position since 2011, is retiring on March 1, 2026. Meyer has held various roles with USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist and FAPRI over the years, including as the assistant director of FAPRI, before rejoining USDA in 2021 to serve as the chief economist. “This is a great opportunity to continue to provide solid agricultural policy development in support of the agricultural sector, cooperate with other faculty members, and return home to Missouri,” Meyer said. “I look forward to the opportunity to do more in-depth analysis and research.” The Institute provides objective analysis of agricultural markets and policies for audiences like Congress, USDA commodity groups, and international governments. Meyer received a PhD in Ag Economics from the University of Missouri.
