FOOD + FARM EXPLORATION WELCOMES ALEXANDRIA BEHREND AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

PLOVER, WI - After an extensive national search conducted by executive search firm Sano Pratt, the search committee for Food + Farm Exploration Center is excited to announce Alexandria Behrend as its new Executive Director. Behrend will officially assume her role on January 2, 2025, ushering in a new era of leadership and innovation for the organization.

Behrend brings nearly two decades of progressive leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, demonstrating a profound commitment to advancing agricultural literacy and fostering community engagement. Most recently, she served as the Manager of Philanthropy for the Boy Scouts of America. Prior to this, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer for the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, where she led impactful initiatives, including operational improvements, donor campaigns, events, membership growth, and program development.

A graduate of Lakeland College in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Behrend holds a bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management and Sociology. Her passion for innovative programming and building strong partnerships aligns seamlessly with the Center’s mission. Behrend and her family reside in Plover, WI and are actively involved in the community that they love. 

“I am thrilled to lead initiatives that not only educate but also inspire collaboration among diverse stakeholders, creating a vibrant community around food and farming,” said Behrend.
The Food + Farm Exploration Center extends its gratitude to Dr. Phyllis King, who has served as Interim Executive Director for the past four months. Dr. King’s extensive experience as a storied education administrator, researcher, health care executive, and systems strategist has been instrumental in ensuring stability and progress during this this leadership transformation. She will remain on staff through January to ensure a seamless transition.

About Food + Farm Exploration Center
Food + Farm Exploration Center is a science and technology center. The 50,000-square-foot facility is situated on 24 acres in Plover, WI. Food + Farm Exploration Center features 60 immersive exhibits, along with meeting and event spaces, a café, a farm tech shed, and four one-acre demonstration fields.

Food + Farm Exploration Center is a destination for learning, exploring and celebrating agriculture. It is also home to the world’s largest potato masher.
 
Learners of all ages are invited to visit Food + Farm Exploration Center. It is a place to learn, play, explore, and discover. Come and see the incredible technology and sustainability used in modern production agriculture. Learn more and purchase tickets for your visit at explorefoodandfarm.org. Pre-purchasing tickets is strongly encouraged.