The US Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) and North American Blueberry Council (NABC) have appointed Amanda Griffin as vice-president of engagement and education.
In the newly created role, Griffin will define, lead and execute day-to-day industry engagement, education and event activities to build awareness and participation for the two councils.
Griffin’s responsibilities will include serving as a liaison to blueberry growers; advancing member engagement; launching a blueberry industry leadership programme; identifying opportunities to partner with trade organisations, universities and government agencies; and leading USHBC and NABC events programming.
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing and interacting with Amanda for over a dozen years and have been impressed with her diverse skills in professional learning and events, as well as member engagement,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of the USHBC and NABC.
“Bringing her on board with USHBC and NABC will allow us to amplify our education efforts, and increase and personalise our connection to all blueberry industry stakeholders,' Cronquist noted.
Griffin was previously the vice-president of education and programme management for the United Fresh Produce Association where she led the programmes and events staff, developed programming for produce industry professionals, directed its conferences and oversaw member education opportunities.
She also served as director of meetings and member programmes for United Fresh for four years, managed curriculum and logistics for the US Chamber of Commerce, and was a meetings associate for the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.
“I feel very fortunate to be joining such a wonderful team and am excited to continue building out industry relationships to better serve the blueberry sector,” said Griffin. “I’m looking forward to creating programmes and engagement opportunities helping to grow talent within the industry and showcasing the value of blueberries to the world at large.”
