IFPA sponsors Bipartisan Inaugural Ball Celebrating American Agriculture

On the evening of the U.S. Presidential Inauguration Day, IFPA celebrated a proud bipartisan tradition at the “Bipartisan Inaugural Ball Celebrating American Agriculture,” bringing together U.S. government leaders, agricultural community members, and industry stakeholders.???

IFPA CEO Cathy Burns and Chair Tammy DeBoer , president of Harris Teeter , welcomed IFPA members and guests to Washington, proudly showcasing the global produce and floral supply chain at this bipartisan celebration of democracy. Members of IFPA Board of Directors included Prof. Patrick Vizzone , co-founder & CFO of Vertical Oceans and executive director of DiMuto ; Bret Erickson, chair of the U.S. Government Relations Council and executive vice president of Little Bear Produce ; and Stefanie Katzman , chair of the Wholesaler-Distributor Council and CEO of Katzman Produce.?

Reflecting the diversity of the fresh produce industry, IFPA members in attendance represented every link in the supply chain—from growers and wholesale distributors to retailers and more. IFPA members’ products created a strong and memorable presence throughout the evening, with stunning floral arrangements provided by Harris Teeter.?

One of the evening’s highlights was IFPA CEO Cathy Burns taking the main stage to extend a special welcome to House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson. The event served as a remarkable opportunity to foster connections, celebrate the bipartisan spirit of agriculture, and showcase the collective strength and vibrancy of the fresh produce industry.?

The international fresh produce community was honored to celebrate with Chairman Thompson and Ranking Member Angie Craig.

The inaugural festivities cap off an exciting month for IFPA in Washington, DC. Earlier this month, IFPA delivered fresh produce to freshman lawmakers as a warm welcome to the 119th Congress and launched its “Fresh Faces of Congress” virtual meeting series, which connects IFPA members directly with these new elected leaders.?