(NPB’s Ashton Pellom presenting at the Alabama–Florida Peanut Trade Show)
The National Peanut Board recently strengthened its connection with growers and industry partners by attending and presenting at several state peanut grower association meetings across the Southeast. These events provided valuable opportunities to share organizational updates, highlight current initiatives and engage directly with the farmers who power the U.S. peanut industry.
Ryan Lepicier, president and CEO, participated in the Mississippi Peanut Growers Association Annual Meeting, offering insights into board priorities, strategic partnerships and ongoing efforts to advance the industry at the national level.
Dena Malsom, vice president of marketing and communications and chief marketing officer, attended the South Carolina Growers Meeting, where she provided updates on national marketing strategies, research investments and key initiatives aimed at expanding peanut consumption and strengthening stakeholder engagement.
Ashton Pellom, marketing and communications associate, represented NPB at the Alabama–Florida Peanut Trade Show and the Florida Peanut Producers Annual Meeting. During both events, Pellom connected with growers at the exhibitor booth, distributed NPB merchandise and shared updates on marketing and communications efforts designed to drive demand and support the industry.
In Virginia, NPB Board Member Westley Drake, representing the state, delivered updates on behalf of the board during the Virginia Peanut Growers Association Production Meeting, reinforcing NPB’s commitment to maintaining strong communication with growers across all peanut-producing regions.
Across each meeting, NPB staff and leadership engaged in meaningful conversations with growers and industry supporters, answered questions and gathered valuable feedback. These in-person interactions remain critical to ensuring the board’s programs and investments align with grower priorities and industry needs.
By maintaining a visible presence at state meetings, NPB continues to strengthen relationships and demonstrate its commitment to serving America’s peanut farmers.