The Midwest Apple Improvement Association (MAIA) has named Ashley Reese as its next president and chief executive officer.
Reese serves on the board of the New Jersey State Horticultural Society and has been active with the American Farm Bureau Federation at the county, state and national levels, according to a news release from MAIA.
“What impressed us most about Ashley was her ability to connect with growers and understand the business side of agriculture,” Chris Eckert, chair of MAIA’s board of directors, said in a statement. “She brings energy, curiosity and a practical approach to building relationships and turning ideas into action.”
Reese has a broad agricultural background encompassing grower relations, business development, sales, agricultural technology and industry leadership. She has worked closely with growers and agricultural businesses, developing a practical understanding of farm operations and the challenges and opportunities facing modern agriculture, according to the release.
“I am honored to join an organization created by growers for growers,” Reese said in the release. “I look forward to strengthening relationships throughout the apple industry and helping more growers and consumers discover what makes MAIA varieties special.”
MAIA is a grower-led organization dedicated to developing modern apple varieties. The group’s work includes apple breeding and evaluation, grower education, research partnerships, variety commercialization and marketing support. The group’s portfolio includes MAIA1 and MAIA-Mitchell, both marketed as EverCrisp, as well as other varieties. MAIA represents more than 1,100 members and millions of trees planted across the United States, Canada and other international growing regions, according to the release.
Reese will work alongside longtime MAIA President Bill Dodd during a planned transition before assuming full responsibility for the organization. •
