Farm Aid has been my focus for 39 years and it has taken me down the best roads. The relationships and experiences I’ve had are extraordinary. As of the start of this new year, I have stepped away from my role as Executive Director to allow for a new phase in the organization’s leadership. But it has not just been me as executive director; for 34 of these 39 years, I have worked very closely with Glenda Yoder, Farm Aid’s Associate Director, who has also stepped away. I could never have done it without her; we have done our work together as strong allies and collaborators.
Carolyn Mugar and Glenda Yoder. Photo © Ebet Roberts
This exciting transition marks the beginning of a new chapter, and I am thrilled that Shorlette Ammons and Jennifer Fahy, who each have deep histories here at Farm Aid, are now Co-Executive Directors to lead the organization forward.
I’m deeply committed to Farm Aid and its mission, and particularly to all the folks I’ve met and who I call friends. There is no way to just walk away from these relationships and from the reality of the ongoing struggle for family farm agriculture. You can continue to find me on the same road with you all. I look forward to staying connected and contributing to Farm Aid’s continued success, always focusing on family farmers.
I feel lucky to be with Farm Aid to achieve great things and make good trouble with and for the family farmers we serve. I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to learn from Willie as he leads us all into the countryside. Farm Aid is an extraordinary, unique mix of artists, farmers, activists and eaters. And with our collective strengths, together we can move mountains. Thank you always for standing with family farmers and Farm Aid.
John Mellencamp, Willie Nelson, Carolyn Mugar (Farm Aid’s Executive Director), Neil Young and Dave Matthews at Farm Aid 2023. Photo © Joeff Davis/www.Joeff.com
Carolyn Mugar and Willie Nelson on the Farm Aid 2018 Press Event stage. Photo © Brian Bruner / Bruner Photo
