FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Cornucopia Institute’s Board of Directors would like to thank Mark Kastel for nearly 15 years leading the organization. His foresight, dedication, and guidance have been instrumental in building Cornucopia into the preeminent organic watchdog and champion for family scale organic farming.
As one of The Cornucopia Institute’s co-founders, Kastel saw the need to help protect the integrity of the organic food movement before many even knew a threat existed. As his tenure comes to an end today, we are forever grateful. Throughout the decade and a half of Cornucopia’s existence, Kastel has been instrumental in the development of its popular industry scorecards, reports on timely issues, and efforts to ensure that standards for organic food remain high and of the greatest integrity.
“We are immensely appreciative of Mark for his years of dedication to The Cornucopia Institute and for helping promote and share our critical mission,” said Cornucopia Board President, Helen Kees. “There is no doubt that his efforts helped family scale farms survive and thrive where they may have otherwise ceased operations. While the board is excited about what lies ahead, we know that our future successes will stand upon the foundation of Mark’s groundwork with Cornucopia.”
Today, The Cornucopia Institute begins its search for a new executive director to lead the organization’s next chapter. The board has appointed Devin Mathias to guide Cornucopia in an interim role and direct the search for candidates to present to the board. “I’m excited to serve such a wonderful organization as we look for a leader willing to further build Cornucopia into a strong, positive force in the good food movement,” Mathias said. “Thankfully, there is a talented, dedicated team in place ready to help advocate for the interests of organic farms and their consumer advocates.”
Contact: Jason Cole, (608) 625-2000
