[WENATCHEE, WASHINGTON, FEBRUARY 26, 2024] The Washington Apple Commission is pleased to announce the appointment of Tommy Hanses, CEO of Washington Fruit and Produce Co., to Position 4, Grower District 3, on the Board of Directors. Hanses will be taking over the position from Jim Thomas, President and Owner of Starr Ranch Growers. Thomas has been an active member of the Board of Directors for the Washington Apple Commission since March of 2017. The Washington Apple Commission would like to thank Thomas for representing the Washington Apple Growers of District 3 and his leadership during his 7 years of service to the board. Thomas received the Golden Apple Award for his term.
The Washington Apple Commission is looking forward to welcoming Hanses at its next board meeting scheduled for March 26, 2024. His experience and dedication will bring immeasurable value to the table, in addition to his knowledge and commitment to the success of the Washington apple industry.
Also joining the Washington Apple Commission’s Board of Directors is Robert Newell. Newell will serve as the representative for the Department of Agriculture. Newell, appointed to the position by Derek Sandison, Director for the Department of Agriculture, has over 25 years of experience with the Fruit and Vegetable Program and has held the roles of inspector, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP) auditor, supervisor, regional manager, and acting program manager.
Newell’s appointment will be effective as of March 1, 2024. He is taking over the position from Jason Ferrante, WSDA Associate Deputy Director, who had been appointed for the role in January 2022.
The Washington Apple Commission is a non-profit, promotional organization dedicated to marketing and advertising fresh Washington apples internationally. For more information on the Washington Apple Commission, visit www.waapple.org.
The Washington Apple Commission is an equal opportunity provider and employer.