ARLINGTON, VA – Betsy Tovar has joined the USA Rice team this summer as a government affairs intern. A recent graduate of Texas A&M University, Betsy earned a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness with a minor in Agricultural Economics. This fall, she will begin pursuing a Master of Public Service and Administration degree with a concentration in agricultural policy at the Texas A&M Bush School.
Growing up on a small poultry farm in northeast Texas and participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) throughout high school, Betsy developed a passion for agriculture and a desire to advocate for policies that support and strengthen underrepresented farmers and agricultural industries.
During her time at Texas A&M, Betsy was both a Terry Scholar and a Cargill Thrive Scholar. She was actively involved in the Agricultural Economics Honors Program, Aggie REPs, the Hispanic Presidents’ Council, and Baptist Student Ministries. Last summer, she participated in a study abroad agribusiness program in Scotland and completed an internship with the National Women in Agriculture Association.
This summer, Betsy is participating in the Texas A&M Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy Internship Program (ANRP), which helps students obtain policy-related internships in Washington, DC.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to learn more about the federal work USA Rice does on behalf of rice farmers across the country,” said Betsy. “Because rice has been a staple in my home throughout my life, my mom's arroz rojo recipe is a family favorite, I’m eager to use this experience to broaden my understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. rice industry.”