WASHINGTON, DC – United Fresh Produce Association welcomes Shelby Rajkovich as United’s new communications manager. Rajkovich will support United’s communications goals to keep members updated with the latest industry news, further the association’s news media outreach and assist in the development and implementation of strategic communications programs to support industry priorities.
“We’re excited to have Shelby join United’s communications team,” said Ray Gilmer, vice president of communications. “I know she will make a solid contribution to keeping members, stakeholders and policymakers informed about United’s policy initiatives, education and other programs.”
Rajkovich joins United Fresh after completing her service as a sustainable agriculture volunteer with the Peace Corps in Senegal, West Africa. While in the field, she distributed improved seed varieties to farmers and provided education for expanding vegetable production. She has completed agricultural internships for Washington, D.C. policymakers, providing research assistance at USDA during the 2008 Farm Bill and more recently with the office of Senator Richard G. Lugar. Rajkovich also conducted extensive research on the characteristics of biochar as a soil amendment while attending Cornell University, earning her the honor of ‘Distinction in Research.’
A native of Linden, California, Rajkovich was raised on a family farm of cherries, apples and walnuts. She holds a degree in International Agriculture and Rural Development from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.
Shelby Rajkovich can be reached at 202-303-3417 or at srajkovich@unitedfresh.org
Founded in 1904, the United Fresh Produce Association serves companies at the forefront of the global fresh and fresh-cut produce industry, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and Western Regional office in Salinas, Calif., United Fresh and its members work year-round to make a difference for the produce industry by driving policies that increase consumption of fresh produce, shaping critical legislative and regulatory action, providing scientific and technical leadership in food safety, quality assurance, nutrition and health, and developing educational programs and business opportunities to assist member companies in growing successful businesses. For more information, visit www.unitedfresh.org or call 202-303-3400.
Source: United Fresh Produce Association