MAITLAND – Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association Chairman Paul R. Orsenigo announced today that Mike Joyner has been named as the organization’s new president effective Oct. 15.
Joyner’s experience in agricultural and environmental issues runs deep. Most recently, he served as assistant commissioner of agriculture and chief of staff for Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, helping to lead the state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for almost eight years. Before that, Joyner represented clients throughout Florida and the United States before the Florida Legislature and state regulatory agencies. He also served in public affairs and environmental affairs positions for The St. Joe Company and Progress Energy (now Duke Energy) and worked as chief of staff for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
“Mike is uniquely equipped to lead FFVA into the future,” Orsenigo said. “Given his experience and leadership in Florida agriculture, he has a keen grasp of the issues that Florida producers face in growing and marketing their crops. We’re looking forward to having him at the helm of our association.”
“I’m excited to join this association, which I’ve admired for many years,” Joyner said. “The positive influence that FFVA’s advocacy work has had on public policy is impressive. There are challenges ahead for agriculture, which means that advocacy is more important than ever.”
Joyner is a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, food and resource economics. He and his wife, Alicia, have two daughters.
Outgoing FFVA President Mike Stuart will stay on board for a brief transition period before his retirement, Orsenigo said. “Mike’s tireless efforts and contributions on behalf of specialty crop agriculture in Florida and nationally have been monumental,” he said. “We’re grateful for his leadership, talents, integrity and coalition stewardship over the years. Our volunteer leaders are committed to providing a smooth succession to new leadership.”
About FFVA: The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (ffva.com) is a full-service organization representing producers of a broad range of crops: vegetables, citrus, berries, tropical fruit, sod, sugar cane, tree crops and more. It has served Florida’s specialty crop industry for 75 years.
Source: Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association
