The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has appointed 11 new members to the board of directors for Potatoes USA.
According to a recent press release., these appointments include nine grower members and one public member, with terms spanning three years, set to expire on February 28, 2028. Additionally, one grower member will serve a two-year term concluding on February 28, 2027.
The process for nominating board members is conducted annually, with candidates proposed by industry stakeholders and appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture following a thorough evaluation.
The new board members include:
- Thomas Baker, Bakersfield, California
- Andrew J. Price, Center, Colorado
- Beth Rachut, St. Ansgar, Iowa (two-year term)
- Diane Szawlowski Mullins, Hatfield, Massachusetts
- Ben De Jonge, Manhattan, Montana
- Nathan Bender, Dyer, Nevada
The reappointed board members include:
- Alison Sklarczyk, Johannesburg, Michigan
- Pete Ewing, Big Lake, Minnesota
- Matthew Linehan, Guildhall, Vermont
- Jennifer Bunger, Pasco, Washington
- Norbert Bomm, Chicago, Illinois (Public Member)
The Potatoes USA Board of Directors is instrumental in guiding the organization’s initiatives to advance the potato sector. The board is responsible for establishing strategic goals and objectives, allocating resources across various marketing, research, and educational programs, and ensuring that these initiatives align with the industry’s needs. This includes overseeing the performance of the programs and making adjustments as needed for maximum effectiveness, benefiting growers, processors, and stakeholders alike.
For more information about Potatoes USA’s board and its initiatives, please visit www.PotatoesUSA.com.
