Next Generation of Produce Industry Leaders to Gather in DC

Press Release From United Fresh: Next Generation of Produce Industry Leaders to Gather in DC

35 & Under panel connects political insiders, up-and-coming industry leaders

 Young policymakers and up-and-coming produce industry leaders will unite for a fresh and unconventional look at advocacy at the 2012 Washington Public Policy Conference. Seven leaders—all under the age of 35—at the forefront of agricultural policy in Washington and rising in the industry, will appear on the Fresh Impact Panel at the October 1-3 conference. This influential and insightful panel joins United Fresh members to discuss the process of connecting with members of Congress and administration officials about produce industry priorities.

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The Fresh Impact Panel speakers include:

• Chris Adamo – Majority Staff Director, Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, U.S. Senate

• Dottie Bond – Legislative Associate, The Russell Group

• Trista Etzig, PMP – Project Manager, Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, USDA

• Kasey Gillette – Policy Advisor for Agriculture, Senate Majority Leader Reid

• Joel Leftwich – Minority Deputy Staff Director, Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, U.S. Senate

• Nick Mascari – New Business Development, Indianapolis Fruit Company, Inc.

• Matt Mika – Director, Government Relations, Tyson Foods

“These leaders display their unbridled passion for the agriculture industry in the halls of Congress and truly represent the next generation of policymakers. Even with their youth, they have a seasoned ability to artfully communicate complex agricultural policy issues to lawmakers and constituents,” said Robert Guenther, United’s senior vice president of public policy. “Our members will find real benefit in hearing their fresh perspective on engaging policymakers and preparing more young leaders to build industry success.”

The Washington Public Policy Conference is the industry’s chance to participate in the policy making process in a forthright and powerful way. This year, the event features two days of strategic, face-to-face meetings with lawmakers and staff of congressional offices. Attendees will also hear from key administration officials and participate in candid and constructive dialogue with the president’s executive team. Market segment education sessions will also provide industry stakeholders the opportunity to evaluate progress made on priority issues. With produce industry leaders and our nation’s policymakers all in one place, the conference strengthens the industry’s voice on issues such as food safety, farm labor, nutrition and consumption and the 2012 Farm Bill.

For more information on the Produce Industry’s Most Powerful Public Policy Event, please contact Angela Tiwari at 202-303-3416 or visit the Washington Public Policy Conference website.