Produce Veteran Tapped as New York Apple President

Posted by Christina Herrick|January 5, 2017

Cynthia Haskins

New York Apple Association (NYAA) announces that Cynthia Haskins has been named the organization’s new president and chief executive officer. Haskins succeeds Jim Allen, who retired Jan. 2 after a 20-year career with NYAA, including 16 years as president, to represent the second largest apple-producing state in the country.

“I am thrilled to partner with New York Apple Association’s dedicated board, committed staff, and critical partners to expand brand recognition and consumption of New York apples and products,” Haskins said. “This is an ideal leadership opportunity to marry my passion for working with growers and industry to expand markets locally, nationally, and globally.”

Haskins joins the association with extensive background in the produce industry, having worked with organizations such as The Oppenheimer Group, Washington Apple Commission, Northern Plains Potato Growers Association, Dole, Sunkist, Missouri Department of Agriculture, and most recently Illinois Farm Bureau.

“We welcome Cynthia’s vast experience and leadership to the New York apple community,” said Jason Woodworth, chairman of NYAA’s Board of Directors. “Cynthia has a results-oriented approach and a broad background that will serve our diverse industry well. Cynthia’s experience in the domestic and international apple industries – coupled with her skills in marketing, association management, and government relations – will be strong assets as we look to the future,” Woodworth said.