Karrie Menz, a Fredericksburg native, was elected to serve on the Texas Beef Council (TBC) Board of Directors for fiscal year 2026.

The TBC board consists of 20 directors nominated by producer organizations or industry segments from across the state.

“Karrie’s expertise in beef quality and food safety, combined with her hands-on ranching experience, brings a unique perspective to our board,” said Molly McAdams, executive vice president of TBC. “Her insight will help us continue building programs that keep beef a trusted, highquality choice.”

Menz grew up in Fredericksburg on the Diamond E Ranch, a fifth-generation cow/calf operation raising Hereford and Angus-cross cattle. The ranch will soon be eligible for the Family Land Heritage Program in 2026 for being in continuous agricultural operation for 100 years.

After graduating from Fredericksburg High School, Menz earned a bachelor’s in animal science with a focus on the meat industry from Texas A&M University.

She started her career in food safety and quality at Owens Country Sausage, where she worked for 26 years. Menz currently serves as Vice President of Quality at Surlean Foods, a foodservice manufacturer supplying beef patties to major quick-service restaurants.

Menz and her husband, Shane, manage the family ranch with their children, Sydney and Shane. They work to maintain a small cow/calf operation focused on pasture restoration, wildlife conservation and sustainable ranch management. Their work includes planting improved grasses for hay production, implementing stock rotation and managing deer populations to support ecological balance.

She is active in the meat industry. Menz participates in the Southwest Meat Association, the Meat Institute Scientific Affairs Committee and the Doss Wildlife Management Association.

She and her family also remain involved in their local community, blending ranching heritage with conservation and education initiatives.