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 May 15, 2026 Source: American Feed Industry Association news release
Newman retired in 2019 after serving 15 years as AFIA's president and CEO, becoming the seventh individual to hold the role in the association's more than 100-year history. He joined the AFIA in September 2004 and officially assumed the leadership position in January 2005. Before stepping into his leadership role, Newman served as the chair of the AFIA Board of Directors from May to September 2004 and had multiple terms as a director. With over three decades of diverse agribusiness experience, Newman's career spanned various roles and organizations, including roles at United Cooperative Farmers, Maple Leaf Foods Inc. and Agway Inc. During his tenure, Newman led the association through a period of significant transformation and growth, navigating major regulatory changes, strengthening key industry partnerships and guiding both members and staff through financial and structural challenges. "Joel's calm, thoughtful leadership helped shape the AFIA into the strong, forward-looking organization it is today," said Dan Meagher, president and CEO of Novus International, Inc., and AFIA Board chair 2025-26. "His ability to listen, build consensus and provide steady direction during times of change left a lasting impact on the association and the broader animal food industry." During his tenure, Newman oversaw AFIA's response to the Food Safety Modernization Act, strengthened its partnership with the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association to support the International Production and Processing Expo and served as president of the Institute for Feed Education and Research from its inception until his retirement. Known for his open communication style, he frequently stayed in contact with members, always on the phone to keep in touch with the membership, offering guidance and soliciting advice. His passion for the industry and his commitment to helping businesses thrive were evident in his advocacy for policies that fostered growth and prosperity for members across the total animal food industry. Newman also represented the AFIA on international trade issues through his service on the International Feed Industry Federation board of directors for several terms, including as chair of the board twice and chair of the IFIF Regulatory Committee. In 2005, he was appointed by former Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns to the Agricultural Trade Advisory Committee for Grains, Feed and Oilseeds. Newman earned a Master of Business Administration in finance from Syracuse University and a bachelor's degree in animal science from West Virginia University (WVU). He continues to support WVU through the Joel and Suellen Newman Dean's Opportunities Fund, an endowment established by he and his wife. He was inducted into the WVU Academy of Distinguished Alumni in 2012. Newman and his wife reside in Alexandria, Va., and are proud parents to two sons and grandparents to two grandchildren. Newman joins 40 prior recipients of this high honor. The DSA is given to professionals who have significantly impacted the animal food sector and provided outstanding, long-term support to the animal food industry. Learn more about this award and previous winners at afia.org. About AFIA Founded in 1909, the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), based in Arlington, Va., is the world's largest organization devoted exclusively to representing the business, legislative and regulatory interests of the U.S. animal food industry and its suppliers. The organization's membership is comprised of over 650 domestic and international companies that represent the total feed industry--manufacturers of commercial and integrated feed and pet food, ingredient suppliers, pharmaceutical companies, industry support and equipment manufacturers. AFIA's members manufacture more than 75% of the feed and 70% of the non-whole grain ingredients used in the country. AFIA is also recognized as the leader on international industry developments, and holds membership in the International Feed Industry Federation (IFIF). Tweet |
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