Spring 2022 ORGANIC REPORT 6 Organic Trade Association Awards Recognize Inspiring Leaders THE ORGANIC Trade Association (OTA) has been recognizing inspiring and innovative leaders in our industry for over 20 years. In 1997, the first-ever OTA Leadership Award was given to Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) for his groundbreaking work in developing the national organic standards and helping to bring the U.S. Department of Agriculture Organic seal to life. Every year since, OTA has recognized a diverse group of leaders whose peers have put them forward for this prestigious award. For 2021, OTA expanded our award categories in recognition of the outstanding work our members have done to help both their neighbors and the organic industry stay strong throughout the COVID pandemic. In addition to OTA’s historic Organic Pioneer and Organic Farmer of the Year Awards, OTA is recognizing two new categories of leaders through the Community Service and Climate Action awards. Winners, to be honored as part of OTA’s 2022 Organic Week event, include: X Organic Pioneer: Mayra Velazquez de Leon, Organics Unlimited X Organic Farmer of the Year: Amy Bruch, Cyclone Farms X Community Service: Cassie Cypers and Scott Erickson, Clif Bar & Company X Climate Action: Britt Lundgren, Stonyfield X Posthumous Pioneer: Amigo Bob Cantisano These leaders and their efforts motivate and encourage all of us in the organic industry to continue improving and creating a more equitable and sustainable future. Their dedication motivates us to work harder, be more creative in our problem-solving, and to continue to prioritize people and planet above all else.
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