Lisa Hightower Joins United Fresh As Communications Manager

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Dr. Lisa Hightower has joined United Fresh Produce Association as the association’s new communications manager. Lisa will produce the Inside Fresh United weekly online newsletter, develop content for United’s website and social media sites, work with news media, and promote awareness of United Fresh events, including the upcoming Washington Public Policy Conference.

Lisa brings skills in journalism, photography, and publication design to her new role at United Fresh. She has developed communication and education campaigns on a wide range of agricultural issues, including food safety, sustainable agricultural practices, beginning farmer training, and enterprise development. Lisa also has experience using social media to reach diverse audiences.

“Lisa’s experience with social media and promoting awareness about critical agricultural issues will help United Fresh keep its members and the fresh produce industry informed and engaged,” said Ray Gilmer, vice president of issues management & communication.

Lisa completed an undergraduate degree in journalism and a master’s degree in agricultural communication at the University of Florida. She recently completed a PhD at Virginia Tech in agricultural education. Lisa has collaborated on campaigns with national and regional organizations such as Virginia Cooperative Extension, Florida Cooperative Extension, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These campaigns promoted increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables among at-risk teens, preparing farm operations for hurricanes and tornadoes, and retirement planning for farmers.

Founded in 1904, the United Fresh Produce Association serves companies at the forefront of the global fresh and fresh-cut produce industry, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and Western Regional office in Salinas, Calif., United Fresh and its members work year-round to make a difference for the produce industry by driving policies that increase consumption of fresh produce, shaping critical legislative and regulatory action, providing scientific and technical leadership in food safety, quality assurance, nutrition and health, and developing educational programs and business opportunities to assist member companies in growing successful businesses. For more information, visit www.unitedfresh.org or call 202-303-3400.

Source: United Fresh Produce Association