United Fresh Taps New Communications Manager

Dr. Lisa Hightower has joined United Fresh Produce Association as its new communications manager. In her new role, Hightower will produce the Inside Fresh United weekly online newsletter, develop content for United’s website and social media sites, work with news media, and promote awareness of United Fresh events, including the upcoming Washington Public Policy Conference.

With extensive skills in journalism, photography and publication design, Hightower’s depth of experience with developing communication and education campaigns on a wide range of agricultural issues, including food safety, sustainable agricultural practices and training, enterprise development and social media, promises to serve the Washington, D.C.-based trade organization and its members well.

“Lisa’s experience with social media and promoting awareness about critical agricultural issues will help United Fresh keep its members and the fresh produce industry informed and engaged,” said Ray Gilmer, United's VP of issues management & communication.

Hightower completed an undergraduate degree in journalism and a master’s degree in agricultural communication at the University of Florida. She recently completed a PhD at Virginia Tech in agricultural education.

She has collaborated on campaigns with national and regional organizations such as Virginia Cooperative Extension, Florida Cooperative Extension, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The various campaigns promoted increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables among at-risk teens, preparing farm operations for hurricanes and tornadoes, and retirement planning for farmers.