ASTA names Michelle Kohn Director, International Programs and Policy

Michelle Kohn, formerly a research analyst for agriculture consulting firm, Agralytica, has been named Director, International Programs and Policy, said Andrew W. LaVigne, president and CEO of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA).

“Michelle brings a strong agriculture research and analysis background to ASTA, which will be valuable as we work to help our members expand their markets overseas,” said LaVigne. “The programs she’ll be overseeing will have a direct, bottom-line impact on their businesses.”

In this new role at ASTA, Kohn will be responsible for the management and direction of USDA Cooperator/donor-funded programs and for assisting in the development of ASTA's international policies and priorities. She will be the staff lead for the International Executive Committee and the major foreign markets (Argentina, India, Mexico, China and Brazil) committees.

Formerly at Agralytica, Kohn provided analysis and support for market research, program evaluations and strategic market analysis for government agencies, trade associations and US exporter organizations. Among the industries she analyzed were soybeans, wheat, grains, oilseed and animal agriculture; and among the issues she evaluated were crop insurance, tariffs and trade barriers.

Said Kohn, “This represents an exciting opportunity for me to apply my skills and knowledge of the USDA’s international programs to help seed growers, breeders and distributors understand, penetrate and thrive in high-potential markets.”

Prior to Agralytica, Kohn provided writing, research, statistical and other project management support for an environmental nonprofit. A graduate of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Maryland, Kohn is currently working on an MS-MBA in Food and Agribusiness Management from Purdue University and the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.