WAEF Leadership Change Pt 2
With today’s Fruit Grower Report, I’m Bob Larson. Jennifer Witherbee has spent the past 20+ years leading the Washington Apple Education Foundation grow from about $60,000 in scholarships per year to over $1-million today.
Heading into retirement, Witherbee says it’s been more difficult than she imagined …
WITHERBEE … “I thought the decision part was going to be the hard part, but it’s continued to be emotional for all of these last six months as you’re doing some of those things for the last time or getting to connect with people that I’ve enjoyed so much through the industry, not knowing if we’ll stay in contact after I leave. So, it was an emotional decision and continues to be.”
And that, Witherbee says is okay …
WITHERBEE … “But, I’m excited for the future of WAEF and the very, very dedicated staff and board and they’ll make sure the foundation continues to thrive and does even better in the future and makes a greater impact.”
Speaking of WAEF’s future, Witherbee says she’s leaving it in the very capable hands of the new executive director, Faviola Barbosa …
WITHERBEE … “Absolutely! I’m excited for her and excited for her to be able to have those opportunities with tree fruit industry members and grow those connections and just get to experience the joy that you feel when you’re able to help someone help somebody else.”
Witherbee says her time with WAEF may be winding down, but her commitment to the organization will always be there.
