The North American Blueberry Council has selected Alyssa Houtby as its new government affairs director, according to a news release. In this newly created role, Houtby will lead advocacy efforts and work closely with Monument Advocacy, the council’s Washington, D.C.-based lobbying firm.
“I’m excited to have Alyssa’s federal affairs experience, relationships and passion for agriculture in support of the blueberry industry going forward,” said NABC President Kasey Cronquist. “Having our first-ever government affairs director on board is a game-changer for the council and for the stakeholders we represent.”
Houtby has extensive experience in communications with policymakers, coalition building, policy analysis and political strategy development. Her understanding of governmental processes, U.S. Department of Agriculture programs and global trade dynamics will help the council fulfill its mission to encourage cooperation among the international blueberry community, provide members with critical market information and act as an industry advocate in legislative and regulatory concerns, according to the release.
Prior to joining NABC, Houtby was the senior director of federal affairs for California Citrus Mutual in Exeter, California, where she also served as the director of government affairs and director of public affairs.
Houtby earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo. She’s an alumna of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation and has served as a board member of the Alliance for Food and Farming.
—by Jonelle Mejica
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