Alexandria, Virginia, USA
September 2, 2011

Source: Newsletter of the American Seed Trade Association

The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) appointed Craig Newman of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, as second vice chairman to its Board of Directors.

ASTA, established in 1883 and located in Alexandria, Va., is comprised of more than 700 companies involved in the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.

Newman who is vice president of sales and marketing for AgReliant Genetics, LLC, grew up on an Indiana corn, soybean and hog farm near Veedersburg and earned a bachelor's degree from Purdue University in Agricultural Business Management.

"With more than 30 years of experience in the seed industry, Craig is a great asset to ASTA's leadership team," says Andy LaVigne, ASTA president and chief executive officer. "He brings a great wealth of knowledge and business experience to the table and we look forward to working with Craig in his new position."

Most recently, Newman served as ASTA's Central Region vice president, representing the interests of those members in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio and making sure that issues specific to the region were addressed.

"This is a dynamic industry," Newman says. "There are and will be many challenges, but I will work and dedicate my time to maximize the opportunities and meet those challenges in the years to come.
"I look forward to working with and for the ASTA membership to improve business conditions for the seed industry in its entirety."

After graduating from Purdue, Newman joined Procter & Gamble as a sales representative in Canton, Ohio, and spent more than seven years in various sales management positions for the company. In 1979, he joined Akin Seed Company and served in different capacities, including general manager. Then in 1995, Newman became general manager of Callahan Seeds.

Newman has also served as president of the Illinois Seed Dealers Association, a member of board of directors for Advanced Microelectronics and the local branch of Old National Bank, and president of the Parish Council of St. Mary Catholic Church. Newman enjoys coaching sports and spending time with his wife and four grown children and one grandson.
 

Website: http://www.betterseed.org/

Published: September 2, 2011