United Fresh accepting applications for leadership program

The application period is now open for the 22nd class of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program. Thanks to the generous support of founding sponsor DuPont Crop Protection, United Fresh members have had the opportunity to take part in this unique experience dedicated to developing future leaders of the industry. Since it was first launched in 1995, over 250 industry members have graduated from this exclusive program.

“We are so proud of the longevity of this program and the positive impact it has had on our industry,” said Tom Stenzel, President and CEO of United Fresh Produce Association. “Through our steadfast partnership and support from DuPont, we are not just investing in the future of the produce industry, this program is helping to drive our industry forward.”

The United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program is the only ongoing, fully paid leadership program for the produce industry. Each year, 12 fellows are selected to participate in the program which is developed around four fundamental goals: leadership development; business relationships; government and public affairs; and media and public relations. 

During the year-long fellowship, participants will take part in a series of customized trips including face-to-face meetings, hands-on training with top industry experts and educators, interactive experiences with influential leaders in Washington and more. The Fellows of Class 22 will participate in four trips, with the class graduating at the 2017 United Fresh Convention in Chicago.

Participation in the program is limited to 12 fellows who are selected by an Advisory Committee. The fellows are chosen from a broad cross-section of the industry to represent the breadth of the United Fresh membership. Candidates interested in applying for the 22nd class can download an application at unitedfresh.org/leadership. The deadline to submit applications is April 1, 2016. 

Eligibility to participate in the program is limited to representatives of United Fresh member companies. All candidates must have the support of their companies to participate. Member companies may submit one application per company. There is no cost to participate in the program and all regular expenses are covered by the program. For full details, including program eligibility and to download the application, visit unitedfresh.org/leadership or contact Amanda Griffin, Senior Director of Meetings & Member Programs at agriffin@unitedfresh.org.

For more information:

Mary Coppola