Animal Ag Alliance Welcomes New Board Members

By CnAgri2012-08-31 06:52:33 Print

The Animal Agriculture Alliance is excited to announce additions to its board of directors and executive committee.

Mark Etienne (Potash Corporation), Billy Frey (Alltech), Scott Oler (Vance Publishing Corporation), Dr. Paul Matzat (Genus/PIC), and Dr. Kathy Simmons (National Cattlemen's Beef Association) recently joined the full list of 27 Board members, who each serve a term of three years. Jeff Cannon (Diamond V) and Dr. Jamie Jonker (National Milk Producers Federation) were added to the Board's Executive Committee.

Current chairman Dr. Chris Ashworth (Elanco Animal Health) also welcomed Paul Pressley (U.S. Poultry & Egg Association) as the Alliance's new Chair-Elect and Sherrie Niekamp (National Pork Board) as Treasurer.

All major sectors of animal agriculture are represented on the Alliance's Board of Directors, making the organization truly unique. The Alliance's legacy of leadership makes it the key organization for building meaningful coalitions across diverse industries to strategically address issues critical to the future of animal agriculture.

"We are pleased to welcome such knowledgeable and dedicated champions for agriculture to our Board," Alliance President and CEO Kay Johnson Smith said. "The future of the Alliance is in good hands."

Earlier this year, the Alliance launched its first Issues Management Committee. The standing committee unites stakeholders from across animal agriculture to address emerging challenges proactively. The next meeting will be held in mid-September. Alliance members are encouraged to inquire about participation.

"The Alliance's Issues Management Committee will bring together leaders from across agriculture to engage in strategic discussions about challenges and opportunities that could shape the future of the industry," Alliance chairman Dr. Chris Ashworth said. "The committee will ensure that the organization continues to serve as an effective, proactive voice."

A new Issues Management Listserv is also being created to help Alliance members and allied groups stay updated on current issues. Alliance staff will provide updates on topics of importance to the collective animal industries. If you would like to be added to the news listserv, contact Kerry Lynch.

The Alliance celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2012. The organization recently completed an internal strategic planning process to better serve its membership. To learn more about opportunities to join the Issues Management Committee or to get more involved with the Alliance, email info@animalagalliance.org