Jan 30, 2024

USApple introduces 2024 NextGen Apple Fellowship class

The U.S. Apple Association (USApple) has publicized the newest members of its leadership development program, the NextGen Apple Fellowship.

Seven fellows from across the country have been selected to participate in the 2024 class.

The 2024 NextGen Apple Fellows include:

• Amanda VanBergen, laboratory technician, Riveridge Produce Marketing (Michigan)
• Austin Benson, export sales, Chelan Fresh (Washington)
• Brannon Frankel, fixed asset manager, AgriMACS (Washington)
• Joseph Strippoli, orchard manager, Geig’s Orchard (Ohio)
• Madison Schaefer, SafePod account manager, Storage Control Systems (Michigan)
• Max Farrell, H-2A account executive, Seso Labor (Texas)
• Shelby Miller, marketing & sales specialist, Applewood Fresh (Michigan)

The NextGen Apple Fellowship focuses on hands-on experience with legislative and regulatory issues, professional development, a one-on-one mentorship program, opportunities to network with top industry leaders, community engagement, and more.

“Each member of this new class showed tremendous potential in their profession, enthusiasm and energy for the NextGen program, and a passion for the apple industry,” Elizabeth Pauls of Wittenbach Orchards in Michigan, said in a news release. “We are thrilled to see how they develop as a class and as professionals. As the national apple association, we’re looking forward to harnessing their skills and voice for the betterment of the industry.”

Wittenbach is a USApple board member and chair of the NextGen Advisory Committee.

In March, the 2024 NextGen program will kick off in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the Falls Church, Virginia-based USApple’s Capitol Hill Day. The runs through December.

USApple will be introducing each member of the class on Instagram over the next month.