Results The Dairy Alliance Appoints Farrah Newberry as New CEO
The Dairy Alliance, a long-standing nonprofit organization supported by dairy farm families across the Southeastern United States, has announced the appointment of Farrah Newberry as its new Chief Executive Officer. This leadership transition marks an important moment for the organization, which plays a vital role in championing dairy farmers, advancing industry priorities, strengthening consumer trust, and promoting the nutritional and economic benefits of dairy throughout the region. Newberry, a respected agricultural leader with deep expertise and a decades-long commitment to the dairy community, has already served in key leadership roles within The Dairy Alliance for the past four years. Her promotion to CEO reflects both her proven capabilities and her enduring dedication to the Southeast’s dairy industry.
During her tenure with The Dairy Alliance, Newberry’s impact has been both significant and strategic. She first joined the organization as Vice President of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs, a role in which she oversaw critical initiatives related to sustainability, farm stewardship, and agricultural policy. Her leadership contributed to strengthening relationships with dairy farmers, expanding the organization’s environmental programs, and supporting efforts to increase awareness of dairy’s essential role in a balanced, nutritious diet. Most recently, she served as Interim CEO, stepping into the role with confidence and stability during a pivotal period. As Interim CEO, she provided clear strategic direction, enhanced collaboration with partners, and ensured that the organization remained firmly aligned with its mission to support dairy producers and connect consumers with trusted, science-based information about dairy.
Newberry expressed deep gratitude and enthusiasm upon being named CEO. “I am deeply honored to lead The Dairy Alliance and continue serving the Southeast’s dairy farm families,” she said. “Our farmers’ dedication and resilience inspire me every day, and I look forward to building on our strong foundation to expand partnerships, elevate programs, and further strengthen the dairy community across our region.” Her statement underscores what industry leaders widely recognize as one of her greatest strengths: her sincere connection to farmers and her unwavering commitment to their success.
Before joining The Dairy Alliance, Newberry built an impressive career in agricultural leadership through her long-standing role as Executive Director of Georgia Milk Producers, Inc. For 22 years, she served as the face and voice of the organization, navigating complex challenges and advocating for solutions that supported both farmers and the broader agricultural landscape. In this position, she played a central role in educating dairy farmers, policymakers, and community stakeholders on the critical issues shaping Georgia’s dairy economy. These included legislative matters, environmental regulations, animal health standards, milk pricing structures, and emerging agricultural technologies—areas of knowledge essential to ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of dairy farms.
In addition to her work at Georgia Milk Producers, Newberry also served as Executive Secretary of the Georgia Dairy Youth Foundation. In this capacity, she helped expand youth development initiatives, financial scholarships, and educational programs designed to foster the next generation of dairy professionals. Her passion for youth involvement in agriculture has left a lasting impact, as she contributed to strengthening programs that nurture leadership skills, deepen industry knowledge, and inspire young people to pursue careers in farming and agricultural sciences.
Leaders within The Dairy Alliance hold Newberry in high regard, praising both her character and her extensive experience. Michael Ferguson, President of The Dairy Alliance Board of Directors, highlighted her long-standing influence in the region. “For more than twenty years, Farrah has been a trusted advocate for Southeast dairy farmers and a leader in agriculture,” he said. “Her experience, vision, and passion for the industry make her the ideal person to guide The Dairy Alliance forward as we continue championing the work of our farmers and the value of dairy in our communities.” His remarks reflect widespread confidence that Newberry’s leadership will bring renewed energy, strategic focus, and continued growth during a dynamic period for the industry.
Newberry’s industry involvement extends well beyond her roles within dairy associations. She has served as President of the Board of Directors for the Agricultural Economics Association of Georgia, demonstrating her commitment to fostering collaboration, professional development, and research-based decision-making within the agricultural economics community. Her academic background is equally strong. A graduate of the University of Georgia, she earned a Bachelor of Science and Arts degree in Agricultural Communications, equipping her with the expertise needed to bridge agricultural knowledge with effective outreach and public engagement. She also studied Agricultural Journalism at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, further strengthening her foundation in communication and advocacy.
Throughout her career, Newberry has been honored with numerous awards that reflect her leadership, integrity, and contributions to agriculture. Notably, she received the 2022 Distinguished Agriculture Steward Award from Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black, recognizing her tireless support of farmers and her commitment to agricultural stewardship. She has been presented with the Larry Guthrie Award twice, in 2015 and again in 2022, and was selected for the 2017 Young Alumni Achievement Award by the University of Georgia’s College of Agriculture. She has also been nominated for UGA’s prestigious 40 Under 40 Alumni Award, underscoring her professional achievements and influence within Georgia’s agricultural community.
The Dairy Alliance Board of Directors expressed full confidence in Newberry’s ability to lead the organization into its next chapter. Her appointment comes at a time when dairy farmers face evolving challenges—from shifting consumer preferences to environmental pressures and economic fluctuations—making strong leadership more important than ever. With Newberry at the helm, The Dairy Alliance is well-positioned to expand its advocacy efforts, strengthen partnerships with health professionals and educators, enhance consumer education initiatives, and continue delivering resources that support the sustainability of dairy farms.
As she steps into her new role, Newberry brings a deep understanding of the industry, a proven track record of collaboration, and a genuine passion for serving farm families. Her leadership promises to reinforce The Dairy Alliance’s mission and help build a bright, resilient future for dairy production across the Southeast.
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