The Council Connection FEBRUARY 2025

Membership Registration

June 2024 ~ May 2025

Behind every piece of produce are countless people who helped along the way – the skilled hands, sharp minds, and big hearts that comprise a critical industry in our country. SEPC brings these worlds together. Because together, we create a strong, vibrant industry now and for decades to come.

Together We Grow Higher!

Please review the updated membership information on our website, including restructured membership tiers, and select which annual membership* best suits your company's needs. Once your current membership status is confirmed, then you'll be able to register for our events.

*Note that our annual membership period runs June through May of the following year. We do not prorate our membership fees. Contact our office if unsure of current membership status.

**All conference attendees are required to be SEPC members in order to attend any events. Exhibitors are required to maintain a corporate membership.**

Our Sponsors

SEPC sponsors are a vital part of our existence. Simply put, sponsor contributions help us bring more to the table for everyone. Like better networking and education events, fresh talent, and a broader awareness of best practices throughout our industry. And of course, when you help us promote produce, your organization will gain crucial exposure at our events and engagements throughout the year. Together, we create a strong, vibrant industry now and for decades to come.

Together We Grow Higher!

FEBRUARY SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

NEW SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

SEPC is now offering sponsorship opportunities exclusive to driving our educational programs that are the best in class for our industry. With different tiers available, you can contribute to the future education of our next generation of produce professionals. Visit our website to learn more about the innovative ways through which you can support the future of our industry:

ALOHA!

We are thrilled to invite you to SEPC’s flagship conference, Southern Exposure, taking place March 6-8, 2025, at the beautiful Orlando World Center Marriott. This year, our theme is inspired by the warm and inclusive spirit of Hawaii, encapsulated in our tagline ~ PRODUCE MEANS FAMILY. Just as ohana means family in Hawaiian culture, we believe that our produce community is a family who supports and uplifts one another. This year, we are also celebrating the significance of family meals and the importance of eating together.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Engaging Educational Sessions: Gain insights from industry leaders and experts.
  • Vibrant Trade Show: Explore the latest products and innovations in our expansive exhibit hall.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, partners, and professionals in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
  • Hawaiian-Themed Events: Enjoy festive gatherings, delicious cuisine, and island-inspired entertainment.
  • Family Meals Focus: Learn about the benefits of family meals and how they can strengthen bonds and improve well-being.

Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of our produce family - sharing knowledge, building relationships, and celebrating our collective successes over shared meals. Register now to secure your spot and be part of an unforgettable experience. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms and the spirit of aloha!

This year’s conference will encompass SEPC Chair Kristin Yerecic Scott’s platform celebrating the significance of family meals and the importance of eating together. The following guest speakers have joined SEPC's family for Southern Exposure:

FEATURED SPEAKERS

CELEBRITY KEYNOTE SPEAKER - BETHANY HAMILTON

Bethany Hamilton has become a source of inspiration to millions through her story of determination, faith, and hope. At the age of 13, Bethany lost her left arm to a 14-foot tiger shark, which seemed to end her career as a rising surf star. One month after the attack, Bethany returned to the water and within two years had won her first national title. In 2007, she realized her dream of surfing professionally and since then, her story has been told in a New York Times bestselling autobiography and in the 2011 film, Soul Surfer. Bethany is involved in numerous charitable efforts, including The Beautifully Flawed Foundation, which reaches out to amputees and youth, encouraging and offering hope to overcome through Jesus Christ. Using her platform as a professional athlete to promote living a fit and healthy lifestyle, she authored the book Body and Soul in 2014. Bethany’s latest film project, Unstoppable, a surf documentary which showcases her as one of the best women surfers in the world, released theatrically in the USA on July 12, 2019, accompanied by a photo book and a children’s book. Passionate about family and about helping young women be unstoppable in life and faith, Bethany launched the Unstoppable Living online courses in 2019, a mother-daughter mentorship program in 2022, known as the ‘Ohana Experience’, along with another children’s book called Surfing Past Fear. Her greatest joy is being a wife and mother, and she continues to touch and inspire lives globally as a professional surfer and motivational speaker.

INDUSTRY KEYNOTE SPEAKER - DAVID FIKES

David Fikes is the Executive Director of the FMI Foundation, which has the mission of supporting the food industry through a focus on research and education in the areas of food safety, health and wellbeing, and social responsibility. His position allows him to act upon his conviction that humans have a right to safe food and consumers have a right to clear information and viable choices. Formerly, David served as FMI's Vice President for Communication and Consumer/Community Relations and before joining FMI he was the Director of Communication for the American Frozen Food Institute. Prior to entering the world of food trade associations, he worked for 20 years as an Episcopal priest, serving parishes in Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas. He and his wife, Lisa, are the proud parents of thirteen-year-old Harper whose soccer skills have now far outpaced those of her father.

SOUTHERN ROOTS WOMEN'S LUNCHEON SPEAKER - DOMINIQUE DAWES

Owner of the Dominique Dawes Gymnastics & Ninja Academies, Dominique opened the gyms to continue her commitment to developing a healthy and compassionate culture in the sport of gymnastics. Her first academy opened in the midst of a global pandemic, July 2020 and her second location opened in 2023. Dawes also holds minority ownership of the Washington Spirit of the National Women's Soccer League and served as the co-chair of the President’s Council for Fitness, Sports and Nutrition under the Obama administration alongside Drew Brees. Alongside LeBron James and Maverick Carter, she recently served as Executive Producer of the Peacock docu-series “Golden”, the journey of USA’s elite gymnasts on the road to the Tokyo Olympics, which has been nominated for a Sports Emmy. Dawes holds her degree from the University of Maryland and was inducted into UMD's prestigious Hall of Fame in 2022. In 2024, her hometown of Montgomery County, Maryland will honor her career and legacy with a life size statue to continue inspiring the next generation to follow in her footsteps. As a wife, mother of four, Olympian and business owner, Dominique Dawes has transcended the world of sports, politics, entertainment and culture.

GOOD SEEDS MENTOR PROGRAM SPEAKER - JASON BROWN

A native of Henderson, NC, Jason Brown is a man of faith, a former professional athlete, and community advocate. Brown studied interpersonal communications at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill while on an athletic scholarship. His greatest accomplishment at Carolina was meeting the love of his life and wife, Dr. Tay Brown. After he graduated in 2005, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens. As a free agent in 2009, Jason signed a five-year contract with the St. Louis Rams, served three, and was released in March 2012. With several lucrative offers on the table from the Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and the San Francisco 49ers, Jason decided instead to take a leap of faith and walk away from the NFL. After his departure from the NFL, Jason moved back to North Carolina and purchased a 1,000-acre farm in Louisburg. The farm has hosted several community events and collaborated with many faith and service organizations. The farm has yielded one million lbs of produce which were given to food pantries and churches throughout the Triangle area. Thousands of volunteers have lent helping hands in gleaning and harvest events. In his work through Wisdom for Life Ministries and First Fruit Farm, Jason and his wife, Tay, are demonstrating how to live a life of purpose. Jason serves as a great example of community service through agriculture.

EDUCATIONAL SESSION I - THE CHEF JEFF PROJECT: CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THE POWER OF FOOD

Chef Jeff Henderson is an award-winning chef, The New York Times bestselling author, philanthropist, television personality, and sought-after speaker on personal and professional development. Jeff started his culinary career in the unlikeliest of places: prison. While serving nearly ten years, he discovered an untapped passion for cooking, which led to executive chef positions at Bellagio and Caesars Palace. Jeff's inspiring story was featured on Oprah's Life Class, Good Morning America, Today Show, ABC World News Tonight, CNN, The Steve Harvey Show, and in major publications such as The New York Times, Newsweek, USA Today, People Magazine, the Washington Post, and many others. When Jeff is not traveling the world teaching his life-changing lessons, he's helping youth who have been in prison, foster care, or struggling socially and economically through his nonprofit, The Chef Jeff Project, a culinary and leadership training program. Jeff resides in Las Vegas with his wife, Stacy, and their five children.

EDUCATIONAL SESSION II: THE POWER OF PRODUCE 2025

Moderator Rick Stein, Vice President of Fresh Foods | FMI

Rick Stein joined FMI in 2014, and is responsible for developing a portfolio of services and activities to assist members in formulating and executing their fresh food strategies. These categories include everything from – dairy, frozen, meat, poultry, seafood, and produce to service departments – deli, bakery and fresh prepared meals and related solutions for take-out or in-store dining. Prior to joining FMI, Rick spent 30 + years in a wide range of retail grocery merchandising and marketing responsibilities. Most recently Stein was the Vice President of retail Merchandising/Marketing execution for Safeway Stores, Inc. Previously he held both divisional and corporate responsibilities in his tenure at Safeway in retail/store operations, category management, sales, sourcing, strategy, and marketing/merchandising. He has experience in virtually every facet of the retail food business and helped lead Safeway to achieve operational excellence and increased market share and revenues. Stein graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral and Social Sciences. He has earned continuing educations credits in marketing, merchandising and management, most recently with the Disney Leadership Institute. Rick serves on numerous nonprofit boards such as the Children’s Cancer Foundation and Easter Seals of DC/VA/MD.

Data Guru: Anne-Marie Roerink, President | 210 Analytics, LLC

Anne-Marie Roerink is the President of 210 Analytics, LLC. Working closely with retailers, wholesalers, grower/shippers and trade associations, Anne-Marie has developed an excellent perspective on the ever-changing wants and needs of the produce consumer in a one-size-fits-no-one world. She understands the challenges and opportunities in the food and produce business today as well as the drivers of success tomorrow. Prior to founding 210 Analytics, Anne-Marie was the Head of Research for the FMI. She designs and authors the annual Power of Produce study and monthly performance reports, along with similar studies in meat, deli, frozen, bakery and other categories.

PANELISTS

Laura Himes, Vice President of Fresh, Walmart Sourcing | Walmart

Laura Himes serves as Vice President, Fresh, Walmart Sourcing for Walmart. Joining the company in 2013 as a Senior Director of Global Sourcing based in sunny Miami and then moved to Bentonville to assume the role of Senior Director of Produce Merchandising. With a passion for people and planet, Laura has let sustainability efforts in produce around packaging, pollinators, vertical farming, block chain implementation and the ethical treatment of farm workers. With over 30 years of experience in the Fresh industry, Laura has worked in about every aspect of produce from farm to fork. Before joining Walmart, Laura held sourcing, production, and operations roles with some very well-known brands including Dole, Chiquita and Driscoll. Laura earned her International MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management and speaks three languages – English, Spanish, and Portuguese. She also has a servant’s heart serving as the Board Chair and member of the Executive Committee for the International Fresh Produce Association and volunteering at the NWA Food Bank and Canopy. In her free time, Laura loves to travel with her husband, Jorge, and two children, Miguel and Amelia.

Jim Thomas, Vice President of Supply Chain + Sustainability | sweetgreen

Jim Thomas serves as Vice President, Supply Chain + Sustainability with Sweetgreen based in Los Angeles. He has built a successful track record in key leadership and management roles on boards, as president, and in functional management of manufacturing, supply chain, sourcing, supply management, demand management and quality assurance. His core competencies include strategic execution, turn-around and recovery strategies, operational excellence, demand management, supply chain including risk mitigation. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated the drive, focus and talent to achieve operational excellence, maintain high levels of productivity, and deliver strong top- and bottom-line growth in high-pressure public, private and not-for-profit settings. His operational background encompasses a strong and broad range of expertise areas, such as manufacturing, culinary and marketing, logistics, supply chain, strategic planning, budgeting, technology transfer, sourcing, continuous improvements, operating efficiencies and distribution/3PL networks. These and many other talents combine to give him the focused confidence and reliable stability to be a crucial contributor to ongoing corporate growth and market expansion. Jim holds an Executive MBA from the University of Chicago and BS in Operations Management from The Pennsylvania State University. He also acquired Director Education and Corporate Governance Certification through UCLA Anderson School of Management and is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, Jim has participated in voluntary self-improvement such as Landmark Forum, Landmark Advanced, Access to Power, Power to Create, Tony Robbins—Unleash the Power within and other learning sessions. A frequent industry speaker, Jim has been involved in leadership roles with various industry/professional associations and volunteer activities including board positions with Second Harvest Foodbank and Save the Chimps.

Josh Waters, Senior Vice President of Category Management – Produce & Commodity Grocery | US Foods

Josh Waters is Senior Vice President, Category Management – US Foods. In this role, he is responsible for developing go-to-market strategies that differentiate US Foods and help the company best serve foodservice operators across the country. Prior to this role, he served as Vice President, CHEF’STORE where he led the company’s cash & carry store business. He joined US Foods in 2012. Prior to joining US Foods, Josh held a variety of roles for grocery retailer, Safeway, including Vice President – Produce and leadership roles in Pricing, Replenishment and Sourcing. Josh is a graduate of the University of Missouri and holds a Masters in Supply Chain Management from the University of San Diego.

Short for “Learning, Interacting and Networking with Key players in the Supply chain,” LINKS is an educational leadership program where exceptional Southeastern growers and shippers can connect with Retail/Foodservice providers in the region in a non-competitive environment. By enhancing each side’s understanding of the retail supply chain, we can facilitate our mutual goals to better service consumers and drive Southeastern produce consumption. The SEPC will provide a meeting space at Southern Exposure to participating Retail/Foodservice members who facilitate the program with invited Growers and Shippers.

LINKS Reservations for SEPC Retail/Foodservice Members*

Please submit through the link below by February 3, 2025 to request your LINKS meeting space during Southern Exposure.

*LINKS Meeting Reservations must be submitted/approved through SEPC. Requests will be accommodated as they are received, and we will do our best to coordinate your space needs with what is available.

EXHIBITOR TOOLKIT

Through our valued partnership with AGS Expo Services, your Welcome to Online Ordering email from eventservices@ags-expo.com will provide access to your online hub and exhibitor kit. The exhibitor toolkit information is also available on our website within the Exhibitor Information accordion menu:

  • Conference Information
  • Official Contractor
  • Fresh Produce Shipping & Handling/Booth Materials Shipping & Handling
  • Booth Labor & Cleaning
  • Display Solutions
  • Standard Furnishings
  • Custom Furnishings
  • Ancillary Services

CONTESTS & PRIZES!

Compete in our Southern Exposure: Produce Means Family costume and booth decorating contests! We invite all attendees to participate for a chance to win CASH!

COSTUME CONTEST

Join our Opening Gala Luau on Friday night, March 8th in Hawaiian-themed, family-friendly attire to compete in our costume contest for a chance to win one of these AMEX gift cards: 1st place: $200; 2nd place: $150; 3rd place: $100; Best Group: $300

BOOTH DECORATING CONTEST

Got a booth idea embracing our theme – Produce Means Family? Decorate your Hawaiian-inspired booth on Saturday at the expo for our booth decorating contest! Three of the best decorated booths will receive a prize of one of the following AMEX gift cards: 1st place: $1,000; 2nd place: $500; 3rd place: $250

DIGITAL TOOLKIT

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SEPC is excited to announce the release of our new book, For the Love of Produce - Southeast Produce Council's Culture and Spirit, which will be published and launch during Southern Exposure 2025! We can’t wait to share personal stories and experiences from over 60 SEPC members. The book will also include inspirational quotes and pictures, perfect for your cocktail table.

All proceeds from book purchases will go to the SEPC Cares charitable partner of your choice. For more information on how to purchase your copy, visit our SEPC website. Thank you for your time and effort supporting the Southeast Produce Council!

Introducing SEPC's STARS Class of 2025!

We are excited to have each of these students attend Southern Exposure this year to introduce them to our members. Check out their bios and resumes on our website:

THE FUTURE OF FRESH AWAITS!

Be part of shaping tomorrow's produce industry leaders at the Fresh Futures Event during Southern Exposure 2025. This is your exclusive opportunity to connect with top-tier students who are eager to make their mark in the produce industry. These rising stars are ready to bring their talent, fresh ideas, and passion to your company through internships and career opportunities.

Don’t miss this annual event designed to bridge the gap between students and the limitless possibilities within our industry. Secure your company’s spot today and get ready to meet the future of fresh!

🌟Be a STARS Mentor at Southern Exposure 2025!🌟

Ready to make a difference while exploring the vibrant world of fresh produce? Join us in Orlando to mentor the rising leaders of our industry!

By volunteering just one hour of your time to walk the trade show floor with a STARS student, you’ll help them navigate the event, make key introductions, and discover the endless opportunities in fresh produce.

Your guidance could be the spark that ignites their future—and it’s a great way to give back to the industry you love!

✨Let’s shape the future of fresh together!✨

We’ve put together a variety of educational programs to help advance your career and nurture the next generation of produce luminaries. Whether you’re brushing up on the fundamentals or keeping up with the latest innovations in the industry, your SEPC membership offers plenty of opportunity to enrich your knowledge.

Community Updates

Our featured charitable partner for February is Bridge the Gap Ministries whose mission is to provide a safe, supportive, Christ-centered environment for men and women who struggle with life-controlling issues. SEPC partners with Bridge the Gap to reach people with the life changing Gospel, while educating their men and women on the importance and benefits of eating fresh produce during their recovery and long after….Leading to a long, healthy life.

To learn more about SEPC Cares and how you can join the Southeast Produce Council in giving back to the community by educating others about the benefits of healthy eating and habits, click the link below.

The Southeast Produce Council is excited to embark on the third year of the SEPC Next Generation Leadership Academy (NGLA), and we are now accepting applications for the 2026 Class. This year-long professional development program is truly unique and is designed for up-and-coming leaders in the produce industry. The program provides participants with a unique approach to conscious leadership ideals and methodologies. Participants will develop and galvanize leadership skills to better navigate industry challenges with a growth mindset. The Academy features quarterly modules that will include virtually guided events and up to two in-person programming events. The program equips and prepares participants for future leadership responsibilities with content relevant to their leadership challenges.

If you or your organization has a potential candidate for the Next Generation Leadership Academy, applications opened January 6, 2025. The deadline to submit applications is February 7, 2025 before 5:00 pm EST.

Applicants should have organizational level support to participate. The incoming class will be announced during the Keynote Brunch at Southern Exposure 2025 and will graduate at Southern Exposure 2026.

Applicants are eligible if they are:

  • Emerging leader in produce, mid-level manager or above
  • Employed in the produce industry for at least 4 years
  • Member in “Good Standing” of the SEPC*
  • Must possess a vision for leadership, a strong drive to carry it out, and strong communications skills to convey why they believe they would be a good candidate for the program by submitting a short video for selection process

*To be in “Good Standing”, a member must actively participate in the SEPC by their attendance, contributions, or both and must be included in our Membership Roll.

The Vorhees Vision Scholarship was created to reward the achievements of young individuals who demonstrate a true entrepreneurial spirit in their lives as they pursue their educational goals. This scholarship is named in honor of the late Terry L. Vorhees, founder and first Executive Director of the Southeast Produce Council. Because of his vision and efforts, the Southeast Produce Council became and remains one of the best resources in the produce industry today.

One college-aged student (graduating high school senior or current college student) will receive a one-time scholarship of $10,000 to their enrolling college/university. The 2nd place recipient will receive $1,500, and the 3rd place recipient will receive $1,000.

Thank you to each of this year’s Vorhees Vision Scholarship applicants! The recipients will be announced February 10th!

Visit our website for more scholarship information!

Congratulations to Julie Hoppe of NPC Powered by Foodbuy for being the first to answer our January SEPC Fruit & Veggie Trivia Question correctly!

February Trivia Question

Be the first to answer correctly and win a $25 gift card!

On which continent did cabbages originate?

Africa

Americas

Asia

Europe

Contact us

242 North Masonic Street | Millen, GA 30442 | 877.720.SEPC (7372) | info@seproducecouncil.com